Best Easy Apple Pie Recipe
When I think of comfort food, nothing comes to mind faster than the image of my mother, standing in the kitchen, rolling out the dough for her famous apple pie. She was truly the queen of pie crusts, and you could see the joy in her face as she carefully shaped the dough, knowing that soon, the family would be gathered around the table, ready to savor each slice. There was something magical about how she could take such simple ingredients and turn them into something so special. And when that warm pie was served with a scoop of ice cream on top, it felt like we were being wrapped in a blanket of love. Every bite was a reminder of the care and affection she put into every meal she made.
Did You Know?
Apples are a versatile fruit celebrated in classic desserts like apple pie, known for their crisp texture and natural sweetness. The tradition of apple pie in America dates back to the colonial era, where it quickly became a symbol of home and hearth. Today, apple pie remains a beloved dessert, especially cherished during patriotic celebrations like the 4th of July.
Yield: 8 serving
Pie Crust:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
1 tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
6-8 tbsp ice water
Apple Filling:
8 cups diced, peeled apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground allspice
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
Topping:
1 egg, beaten
1 tbsp coarse sugar (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Crust:
Personal Tip: My mother always said the key to a perfect crust is keeping the butter cold and working quickly.
In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Add the chilled butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape into disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Prepare the Filling:
Personal Tip: Toss the apples in lemon juice right after peeling to keep them from browning and to add a nice tang to the filling.
In a large bowl, mix together the diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and flour.
Assembling the Pie:
Personal Tip: Rolling out the dough between two sheets of parchment paper helps prevent sticking and makes it easier to transfer to the pie plate.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to about 1/8-inch thickness, ensuring it’s large enough to fit into a 9-inch pie plate with some overhang. Transfer the dough to the pie plate, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides without stretching. Trim off excess dough, leaving about 1/2 inch overhang.
Fill the pie with the apple mixture, mounding it slightly in the center for an even bake.
For the top crust, roll out the second disk of dough to the same thickness. Fold it in half, then in half again to make it easier to transfer. Unfold the dough over the filled pie, covering it completely.
Trim the edges to match the bottom crust, fold them under, and pinch or flute the edges to seal. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape, which helps prevent the filling from becoming too soggy.
Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
Bake:
Personal Tip: Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and prevent a messy oven.
Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for another 45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let the pie cool for at least 1 hour before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving): Calories, 430 | Protein, 3g | Carbohydrates, 62g | Fat, 19g | Sugars, 31g
Tips for a Pretty Crust:
- Lattice Top: Roll out the dough and cut it into even strips. Lay half of the strips horizontally across the pie. Weave the remaining strips vertically over and under the horizontal strips to create a lattice pattern.
- Braided Edge: Roll three thin strips of dough and braid them together. Place the braid around the edge of the pie crust for an elegant look.
- Decorative Cutouts: Use small cookie cutters to cut shapes out of the rolled dough. Arrange the cutouts on top of the pie filling or around the edge of the crust.
- Crimped Edge: Use your fingers or a fork to crimp the edges of the pie crust for a classic and polished finish.
- Egg Wash: Brush the top crust with a beaten egg to give it a shiny, golden appearance. Sprinkle with coarse sugar for added texture and sweetness.
- Fluted Edge: Use your fingers to create a fluted pattern by pressing the dough between your thumb and index finger.
Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money
Mastering the art of baking begins with the right tools and smart techniques. Here are some essential tips and tricks to enhance your baking experience with healthy choices while saving money in the kitchen:
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Choosing Budget-Friendly and Healthy Ingredients: Opt for seasonal apples and other fruits when they're at their peak to save money and ensure the freshest flavors in your apple pie. Look for sales or buy in bulk for better deals on ingredients like whole wheat flour, natural sweeteners, and spices. Planning your recipes around what's on sale can significantly cut costs while ensuring nutritional quality.
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DIY Pie Pans: Instead of investing in specialty pie pans, use standard pie plates or baking dishes. Line them with parchment paper for things like cakes for easy release and to eliminate the need for extra greasing, saving both time and money. This trick also reduces cleanup time, making baking more efficient.
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Efficient Oven Use: Maximize oven efficiency by baking multiple pies or other dishes simultaneously. Position them on separate racks and rotate halfway through baking for even heat distribution, reducing energy consumption. This method not only saves on electricity bills but also ensures evenly baked pies.
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Homemade Pie Crust Versatility: Extend the use of pie crust beyond pies. Use leftover dough to make savory turnovers or small tarts. This adds versatility to your ingredients and reduces waste. Making your pie crust at home with whole wheat flour and a healthier fat like coconut oil or butter is a cost-effective and healthier alternative to store-bought options.
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Storage and Freshness: Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. Individual slices can be wrapped in plastic wrap and frozen for up to three months, ready for quick indulgences. This method reduces food waste and ensures you always have a delicious dessert on hand.
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Reusable Baking Essentials: Invest in reusable silicone baking mats or parchment paper sheets instead of disposable options. These alternatives not only save money over time but also reduce environmental impact. They're easy to clean and can be used for various baking purposes.
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Creative Garnishing: Transform basic ingredients into stunning presentations. Use decorative pie crust cutouts or a sprinkle of cinnamon and honey as economical and attractive garnishes for pies, adding visual appeal without compromising on health. Experimenting with different garnishes can elevate the look of your desserts.
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Educational Cooking Resources: Explore online tutorials, cooking classes, and community forums for free or low-cost resources. They offer valuable tips on baking techniques, ingredient substitutions, and budget-friendly recipes. Learning new skills can enhance your baking repertoire without spending a fortune.
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Smart Ingredient Substitutions: Substitute ingredients like unsalted butter with coconut oil or a healthier butter alternative for a lighter option. Experiment with different flavors and textures while staying within your budget constraints. Using what you already have on hand can prevent unnecessary trips to the store and reduce expenses.
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Preserving Pie Freshness: Extend the life of your apple pie by wrapping it tightly and storing it in the refrigerator. This preserves moisture and flavor, ensuring each slice tastes as fresh as the first. Proper storage techniques can make a significant difference in the longevity and quality of your baked goods.
Let’s Learn About Different Apple Varieties and What Are Best For Pies
Apples come in a wide variety of flavors and textures, making certain types better suited for baking pies than others. In general, apples that are firm and hold their shape during cooking, while also offering a balance of sweet and tart flavors, are ideal for pies.
Granny Smith apples are a top choice due to their tartness and ability to stay firm after baking, offering a delicious contrast to sweet pie fillings. Honeycrisp apples are also popular for their sweetness, juicy bite, and sturdy texture. Braeburn apples provide a more balanced sweet-tart flavor, and their firmness makes them excellent for pies as well.
Other good options include Golden Delicious, which adds sweetness and a tender texture when paired with tarter apples, and Jonagold, known for its honey-like sweetness and crisp texture.
When baking pies, it's often best to use a blend of apple varieties to get a perfect combination of flavors and textures in your pie. Always look for fresh, firm apples and avoid any that are too soft or bruised for the best results.