Delicious Apple Pie Recipe for a Sweet Treat

Apple pie is one of those classic American desserts that has been cherished by generations. Its rich flavor and crispy texture make it perfect for any occasion, whether you're hosting a family gathering or simply enjoying a cozy afternoon at home.

This recipe yields about eight servings and can be prepared in approximately 2 hours, including baking time. The prep time alone takes around an hour, which gives you plenty of time to get organized before starting the actual cooking process.

Ingredients

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 3-4 tablespoons ice water
• 6 large tart apples, such as Granny Smiths or Pippins
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• Cinnamon to taste (about ½ teaspoon)
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter for the bottom crust
• Sugar and cinnamon mixture for sprinkling on top
• Vanilla ice cream, optional garnish

Instructions

To make the crust: In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Add cold butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to cut it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water while mixing with a fork until the dough just comes together. Shape into two disks, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

To prepare the apples: Peel, core, and slice your apples very thinly. In a medium bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent browning. Add sugar and cinnamon; mix well until evenly coated. Set aside.

Baking the Pie

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out one of the chilled disks on a lightly floured surface into a circle about 12 inches in diameter and ⅛ inch thick. Carefully transfer it to a pie dish, letting excess dough overhang the edges.
3. Place a piece of parchment paper over the bottom crust and fill with dried beans or pie weights. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove the parchment and weights; bake another 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Let cool while preparing the filling.

To assemble: Spoon the prepared apple mixture into the cooled bottom crust. Dot the top with small pieces of unsalted butter, then sprinkle generously with cinnamon-sugar blend.

3. Cover the apple layer with the second rolled-out disk, tucking the edges under and pressing to seal. Seal well by crimping or flute the edges. Cut slits in several places through the top crust so steam can escape during baking.
4. Bake at 400°F (205°C) for about 30-40 minutes, until the pastry is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Final Touches

Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least one hour. Serve slices with vanilla ice cream if desired!

Enjoy Your Delicious Apple Pie!

The sweet aroma of an apple pie baking in your oven is hard to resist! Whether served warm or chilled, this dessert will delight both young and old alike. The perfect balance between the flaky crust and juicy apples makes every bite memorable.

For those who love to experiment with flavors, consider adding a touch more cinnamon or even nutmeg for extra depth. You could also try different types of apples—Fuji, Gala, or Honeycrisp—to see how they influence the final product. Experimentation is key to discovering your ideal version!

Apple pie isn't just about taste; it's also about tradition and comfort. It’s a treat that can warm hearts on cold winter nights or celebrate summer gatherings with friends and family.

Tips & Variations

• Tips: Always use tart apples for an authentic flavor. If you prefer less sugar, reduce the amount accordingly.
• Variations: For a healthier version, replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour or add oatmeal to the topping.

No matter how you choose to approach this classic dessert, apple pie remains a cherished culinary tradition. It's not just about following steps; it's about creating something special and sharing it with loved ones. So go ahead—give it a try! You won’t be disappointed by its sweet rewards.