Classic Homemade Apple Pie: A Timeless Delight

Classic Homemade Apple Pie: A Timeless Delight

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 6-8 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:

• 6 cups peeled, cored, and thinly sliced apples (use a mix of tart and sweet varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

For the Topping:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix. Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disk, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
3. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough into a circle large enough to fit your pie dish. Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to the pie dish, gently pressing it into the bottom and sides.
5. In a separate mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
6. Pour the apple filling into the prepared pie crust and dot the top with small pieces of butter.
7. Roll out the second disk of dough into a circle. You can either place it on top of the pie as a whole or create a lattice design by cutting it into strips and weaving them over the filling.
8. Trim the excess dough around the edges and crimp them together to seal. Brush the top crust with beaten egg, and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
9. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
10. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 1-2 hours before serving. This will help the filling set.
11. Serve your homemade apple pie warm or at room temperature, and if desired, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

Enjoy this classic homemade apple pie with its buttery crust, tender apples, and aromatic spices. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy evening treat, this timeless delight is sure to satisfy your cravings and fill your home with a delightful aroma.