A Slice of Heaven: How to Make Homemade Apple Pie



Introduction

There's something undeniably comforting about the aroma of a freshly baked apple pie wafting through the air. Whether it's a warm slice served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a holiday tradition, apple pie is a beloved dessert that has stood the test of time. Making your own homemade apple pie is not only a delightful culinary adventure but also a heartwarming way to create cherished memories with loved ones. In this article, we'll walk you through the step-by-step process of making a delicious homemade apple pie that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

 

Ingredients:

 

  • For the Pie Crust:
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 6-8 tablespoons ice water

     

For the Apple Filling:
 

  • 6-7 cups of your favorite apples (a mix of tart and sweet varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for dotting)

     

Instructions:
 

Prepare the Pie Crust:
 

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
  • Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough begins to come together.
  • Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disc, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or overnight if possible)

     

Prepare the Apple Filling:
 

  • Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Toss them in a large bowl with lemon juice to prevent browning.
  • In a separate bowl, combine sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour.
  • Add the sugar mixture to the sliced apples and gently toss to coat them evenly.

     

Roll Out the Dough:
 

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  • Take one of the dough discs out of the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a circle large enough to line a 9-inch pie dish.

     

Assemble the Pie:
 

  • Carefully place the rolled-out dough into the pie dish, pressing it gently to fit. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edge.
  • Fill the pie shell with the prepared apple mixture. Dot the top with small pieces of butter.

     

Add the Top Crust:
 

  • Roll out the second dough disc into a circle large enough to cover the pie. Place it over the apples.
  • Trim any excess dough and pinch the edges of the top and bottom crusts together to seal the pie.
  • Optionally, cut decorative slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

     

Bake and Enjoy:
 

  • Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any spills and bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
  • Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing. This helps the filling set.

     

Conclusion

Making homemade apple pie is a labor of love that results in a mouthwatering dessert that's hard to resist. With the right ingredients and a little patience, you can create a pie that's both comforting and delicious. Whether you serve it at a family gathering, a special occasion, or just to satisfy a craving, homemade apple pie is a classic treat that will always be in style. So, roll up your sleeves, don your apron, and get ready to savor the sweet, cinnamon-spiced goodness of your very own homemade apple pie.

Katherine A. Keller

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