Best Apple Pie Recipe: A Classic Dessert

Apple pie is a timeless dessert that is beloved for its flaky crust and sweet, spiced apple filling. This recipe yields a delicious homemade apple pie that is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water
• 6 cups sliced apples (such as Granny Smith)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. Make the Pie Crust:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

2. Prepare the Filling:

   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground allspice, flour, and lemon juice. Toss to coat the apples evenly.

3. Assemble the Pie:

   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the dough to the pie dish and trim the edges.
   • Pour the apple filling into the pie crust. Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the apples. Trim and crimp the edges to seal. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
   • Brush the top crust with the beaten egg.

4. Bake:

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil.

5. Serve:

   • Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Kitchen Tools Required:

• Mixing bowls
• Pastry cutter
• Rolling pin
• 9-inch pie dish
• Knife
• Cutting board

Background

Apple pie is often considered the quintessential American dessert, though its origins can be traced back to Europe. The first American apple pies were made by early settlers who brought apple seeds and pie-making traditions with them. Today, apple pie is a beloved symbol of American culture and is often enjoyed during holidays and special occasions.