Perfectly Baked Apple Pie Recipe

Apple pie is a beloved dessert that has been enjoyed by generations for its simplicity and delicious taste. It's no wonder apple pie remains one of the most popular desserts across various cultures, particularly during fall and winter months when apples are in season.

This classic American dessert can be made with just a few ingredients, but it requires precise measurements to achieve that perfect balance of flavors and textures. With this simple recipe, you’ll learn how to make your own homemade apple pie from scratch—no pre-made crusts needed! Get ready to wow family and friends by serving them the warm, flaky crust topped with juicy apples.

Ingredients

• 3 large Golden Delicious or Granny Smith Apples, peeled, cored, and sliced thinly
• 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 sheets refrigerated pie crusts, thawed (optional for homemade version)
• 1 large egg yolk beaten with 1 tablespoon water for glazing

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a bowl, gently mix the sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and flour. This will ensure the apples release their juices evenly throughout baking.

3. For an all-purpose dough for your pie crust, roll out two sheets of refrigerated pie crust to about 1/8 inch thick on a lightly floured surface using a rolling pin. Using a plate or glass as a guide, cut the circles into the desired size for your apple pie.

4. If you are making an all-purpose crust, line a 9-inch pie dish with one piece of dough and set it aside while you assemble the filling. If using purchased refrigerated pie crusts, simply open them up over the fruit mixture in the dish without rolling or shaping.

5. Evenly distribute the apple mixture into the prepared bottom shell or both crusts if you made your own. Press any large slices down so they are covered by other smaller pieces. This ensures even cooking and prevents burn spots on top later when baking.

6. Once all ingredients have been layered neatly, carefully place the second pie crust over the filling, pressing edges together gently but firmly to seal. Cut slits into the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.

7. If not using refrigerated pre-made crusts, bake for 15 minutes before adding the upper crust to prevent burning. After removing it from oven, brush the top with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with water), then proceed by placing the pie back into the oven.

8. Bake at 375°F until golden brown and bubbly; approximately 40 minutes total time depending on your oven. Check after about 30-35 minutes to ensure the crust does not become too dark before removing it from heat.

Enjoying Your Apple Pie

Your perfectly baked apple pie will reward you with a mouth-watering treat that can be enjoyed warm or cold. Serve slices either plain or accompanied by vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a scoop of your favorite custard for dessert. This versatile dish pairs well not only with coffee but also with tea or wine.

The key to a successful apple pie lies in the balance between sweetness and tartness provided by different varieties of apples used in the filling along with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Adjusting these elements according to personal preferences can enhance this already delectable creation even further!