An apple pie is a timeless classic that never fails to bring comfort and joy. Our perfect apple pie recipe is a delightful blend of sweet and tart, with a buttery, flaky crust that complements the juicy apple filling. The dish uses simple, familiar ingredients that come together to create a dessert that's more than the sum of its parts. It's an ideal treat for any occasion, from a cosy family dinner to a festive holiday feast.
In this recipe, we use Golden Delicious apples for their sweet, mellow flavor and firm texture that holds up well during baking. If you can't find them at your local supermarket, any baking apple like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp can be a good substitute. We also use solid vegetable shortening, which is a common baking ingredient, but if it's not readily available, you can replace it with extra butter.
Ingredients for the Perfect Apple Pie
All purpose flour: It's the foundation of the pie crust, lending structure and tenderness.
Salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the pie crust.
Unsalted butter: Provides moisture and fat, making the crust flaky.
Solid vegetable shortening: Also contributes to the flakiness of the crust.
Golden Delicious apples: Their sweet, mellow flavor is perfect for apple pie.
Lemon juice: Adds a hint of tartness to balance the sweetness of the apples.
Dark brown sugar: Gives the apple filling a rich, caramel-like sweetness.
Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the apple filling.
Milk: It's brushed on top of the pie crust before baking to give it a golden-brown color.
One reader, Gerhardine Spalding says:
This apple pie recipe is a game-changer! The crust is flaky and buttery, and the filling is perfectly sweet and spiced. It's a hit every time I make it, and my family can't get enough. It's the ultimate comfort food and a definite crowd-pleaser. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Making Apple Pie
How to make the dough: Combine the flour, salt, and sugar in a food processor and pulse until the mixture resembles small peas. Add the butter and shortening, then pulse until evenly moistened. Add ice water as needed until the dough comes together. Form the dough into disks, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate.
How to roll out the dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into rounds of the specified thickness. Fit the round into a pie plate and trim the overhang. Refrigerate the pie shell and the second round of dough.
How to make the filling: Peel, halve, and core the apples, then cut into wedges. Toss with lemon juice. Melt butter in a skillet, stir in brown sugar, and add the apples. Cook until tender but not mushy, then transfer to a baking sheet and let cool. Sprinkle with flour and cinnamon, then toss until the flour disappears.
How to assemble the pie: Arrange the cooled apples in the pie shell, drizzle the juices over them, and moisten the pie rim with a wet pastry brush. Center the top crust over the apples, press the rim to seal, and trim the overhang. Brush the top of the pie with a sugar and milk mixture, then pierce holes in the top crust with a fork.
How to bake the pie: Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F. Bake the pie for 25 minutes, then reduce the heat to 375 degrees F and bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the apple pie filling is bubbling. Let the pie cool for at least 1 hour before serving.
How To Make Perfect Apple Pie
Enjoy the perfect balance of sweet-tart apples in this decadent apple pie! Each bite comes with spiced apples and buttery flavors from its crisp crust.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2½cupsall purpose flour,plus 1½ tbsp
- 1tspsalt
- 2tspgranulated sugar
- 8ozunsalted butter,(2 sticks), cold
- ½cupvegetable shortening,cold, solid
- ice water
- 4½lbsGolden Delicious apples
- 1large lemon,juiced
- 1cupdark brown sugar,packed
- ¼tspcinnamon
- 2tspmilk
Instructions
Dough:
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In a food processor, pulse 2½ cups of the flour with the salt and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Add 8 tablespoons of the butter and the shortening, then pulse until the mixture resembles small peas.
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Add ⅓ cup of ice water and pulse until evenly moistened. Squeeze some of the mixture with your hand; it should come together. If it crumbles, add 1 tablespoon of ice water and pulse again.
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Turn the dough out onto a work surface and gently press with the heel of your hand, then quickly gather into a ball. Divide in half and form into disks.
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Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or for up to 2 days.
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On a lightly floured surface, roll 1 disk into a ⅛-inch thick 13-inch wide round. Fit the round into a 9-inch glass pie plate and trim the overhang to ½-inch.
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Refrigerate the pie shell.
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Roll out the second disk into a ⅛-inch thick 12-inch wide round, then transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
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Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate.
Filling:
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Peel, halve and core the apples, then cut into ¾-inch wedges and toss with the lemon juice in a large bowl.
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In a 12-inch skillet, melt the remaining 8 tablespoons of butter over low heat; stir in the brown sugar. Add the apples and turn to coat.
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Increase the heat to high and cook, turning occasionally, for 15 minutes, until most of the wedges are tender but not mushy. Do not overcook.
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Immediately scoop the apples and their juices onto a rimmed baking sheet. Sprinkle the remaining 1½ tablespoons of flour and the cinnamon over them and toss until the flour disappears.
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Place the baking sheet on a wire rack and let the apples cool to room temperature for 40 minutes.
To Bake:
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Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F.
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Arrange the apples in the pie shell; drizzle the juices over them. Moisten the pie rim with a wet pastry brush.
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Center the top crust over the apples and press the rim to seal. Using scissors, trim the top crust to a ½-inch overhang, then fold it under and crimp.
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Dissolve the remaining 1 teaspoon of sugar in the milk and lightly brush the top of the pie. Pierce several holes in the top of the pie with a fork.
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Bake the pie for 25 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown. If the crust begins to brown too quickly, cover the rim with foil.
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Reduce the heat to 375 degrees F and bake for 20 minutes longer, or until the apple pie filling is bubbling.
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Transfer the apple pie to a wire rack and let cool for at least 1 hour before cutting into wedges and serving.
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Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 1361.38kcal
- Fat: 73.28g
- Saturated Fat: 35.70g
- Trans Fat: 5.23g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 22.56g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 9.27g
- Carbohydrates: 168.65g
- Fiber: 14.95g
- Sugar: 89.33g
- Protein: 10.31g
- Cholesterol: 122.16mg
- Sodium: 612.04mg
- Calcium: 95.88mg
- Potassium: 684.94mg
- Iron: 4.70mg
- Vitamin A: 404.51µg
- Vitamin C: 9.61mg
Crucial Technique for Perfecting Your Apple Pie
When making your apple pie, it's important to remember that the type of apple you use can greatly affect the taste and texture of your pie. Golden Delicious apples are recommended for this recipe due to their sweet, mellow flavor and ability to hold their shape during baking. However, you can experiment with different apple varieties to find your preferred taste. Mixing two or more varieties can also add depth to the flavor of your pie. Just remember to adjust the amount of sugar depending on the sweetness of the apples.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Apple Pie
Prepare the filling: To save time, consider preparing the apple filling in advance and refrigerating it until you are ready to assemble the pie. This way, you can streamline the pie-making process and have the filling ready to go when needed.
Uniform shape: When slicing the apples, aim for a uniform shape and size. This will help the apples cook evenly and reduce the overall cooking time, ensuring that your apple pie comes together more efficiently.
Substitute Ingredients For Perfect Apple Pie Recipe
all purpose flour - Substitute with whole wheat flour: Whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture to the crust, which can complement the sweetness of the apple filling. It also provides additional fiber and nutrients compared to all-purpose flour.
granulated sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can add a natural sweetness and depth of flavor to the pie filling. It also brings a touch of floral aroma and can enhance the overall complexity of the dessert.
unsalted butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative and adds a subtle coconut flavor to the crust. It also provides a flaky texture and richness similar to butter.
vegetable shortening - Substitute with butter: Butter can be used as a substitute for vegetable shortening to add a rich, buttery flavor to the crust. It also helps create a flaky and tender texture in the pastry.
golden delicious apples - Substitute with honeycrisp apples: Honeycrisp apples offer a sweet and tart flavor with a crisp texture, making them an excellent substitute for golden delicious apples in apple pie. They hold their shape well when baked and provide a juicy, flavorful filling.
dark brown sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can replace dark brown sugar to add a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the apple pie filling. It also contributes a hint of maple flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dessert.
cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg can be used as a substitute for cinnamon to add warm, nutty, and slightly sweet flavors to the apple pie filling. It complements the apples and other spices, adding depth and complexity to the dessert.
milk - Substitute with heavy cream: Heavy cream can be used instead of milk to brush the pie crust, providing a richer and creamier texture. It also adds a golden-brown color and a slightly richer flavor to the crust.
Best Ways to Serve Apple Pie
Elevate the pie crust: Gently layer the pie crust in a circular motion, ensuring it is evenly spread and perfectly covers the apple filling.
Garnish with precision: Sprinkle a light dusting of powdered sugar over the pie, creating an elegant and refined finish.
Incorporate a touch of elegance: Place a delicate, edible flower on the side of the plate to add a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Create a symmetrical slice: Cut the pie into precise, uniform slices, ensuring each piece is visually appealing and perfectly portioned.
Enhance with a drizzle: Add a drizzle of warm caramel sauce in a zigzag pattern over the pie, creating an artistic and appetizing presentation.
Utilize a decorative plate: Present the apple pie on a fine, porcelain plate, enhancing the overall visual appeal and sophistication of the dish.
Incorporate a touch of gold leaf: Gently place a small, edible gold leaf on top of the pie, adding a luxurious and opulent touch to the presentation.
Accentuate with a scoop of vanilla ice cream: Serve the pie alongside a quenelle of vanilla ice cream, adding a contrasting element and a touch of indulgence to the dish.
Utilize a dusting of cinnamon: Lightly dust the plate with a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, adding a subtle aromatic element and enhancing the overall visual appeal.
Present with a side of whipped cream: Serve a dollop of freshly whipped cream on the side of the plate, adding a creamy and luxurious element to the presentation.
Essential Tools for Making the Perfect Apple Pie
- Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for making pie dough and quickly preparing the apple filling for the pie.
- Rolling pin: A rolling pin is used to flatten and shape the dough for the pie crust.
- 9-inch glass pie plate: This is a standard pie plate used for baking pies. It's made of glass, which helps to evenly distribute heat for a perfectly baked crust.
- 12-inch skillet: A skillet is a flat-bottomed pan used for cooking the apple filling. It's important for even heat distribution and sautéing the apples to perfection.
- Pastry brush: A pastry brush is used for applying the milk and sugar mixture to the top of the pie crust before baking.
- Baking sheet: A baking sheet is used for holding the rolled out pie crust and for cooling the apple filling before assembling the pie.
- Wire rack: A wire rack is used for cooling the baked pie and allowing air to circulate around it, preventing sogginess.
- Parchment paper: Parchment paper is used to line the baking sheet and prevent the pie crust from sticking.
- Fork: A fork is used to pierce holes in the top crust of the pie to allow steam to escape during baking.
Storing and Freezing Your Perfect Apple Pie
Here are the storing and freezing guidelines for the perfect apple pie recipe:
- Let the apple pie cool completely on a wire rack before storing or freezing. This typically takes about 2-3 hours.
- To store the pie, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the apple pie:
- Wrap the cooled pie tightly with plastic wrap, making sure to remove as much air as possible.
- Cover the wrapped pie with aluminum foil for an extra layer of protection against freezer burn.
- Label the pie with the date and contents, then place it in the freezer.
- Frozen apple pie can be stored for up to 4 months.
- To thaw a frozen apple pie:
- Remove the pie from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Once thawed, you can reheat the pie in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.
- If the crust starts to brown too quickly during reheating, cover the edges with foil.
- For optimal flavor and texture, it's best to consume the apple pie within 2 days of thawing.
How To Reheat Leftover Apple Pie
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover apple pie on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with aluminum foil. This method helps to retain the moisture in the filling and prevents the crust from burning. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pie is heated through.
If you prefer a crispier crust, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of reheating. This allows the top crust to regain its flakiness and golden-brown color. Keep a close eye on the pie to ensure it doesn't burn.
For individual slices, you can use a toaster oven or a conventional oven. Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the slice on a small baking sheet or directly on the rack. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until warmed through. If using a conventional oven, follow the same instructions but increase the heating time to 10-12 minutes.
If you're short on time, you can also reheat apple pie slices in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 30-second intervals until it reaches your desired temperature. Be aware that the crust may become slightly soggy using this method.
For a unique twist, try reheating your apple pie in a skillet. Melt a small amount of butter in a pan over medium heat. Place a slice of pie in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the crust is crispy and the filling is heated through. This method works best for individual slices and adds a delightful buttery flavor to the crust.
If you have an air fryer, you can use it to reheat your apple pie slices. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place a slice in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the pie is heated through and the crust is crispy. This method is quick and produces a delightfully flaky crust.
Interesting Fact About Apple Pie
The apple pie is a classic American dessert that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is often associated with comfort and nostalgia, and has been a staple at many family gatherings and holidays. The combination of sweet, tart apples and warm spices creates a delightful aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes. The process of making an apple pie from scratch can be a labor of love, but the end result is always worth it. Whether it's served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, apple pie is a timeless treat that brings people together.
Is Making Apple Pie at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this apple pie recipe is quite favorable. The ingredients are commonly found in households, and the recipe yields a large pie that can serve a family of four. The use of apples and basic pantry staples keeps the cost low. The approximate cost for a household of four people is around $10-$15, making it a budget-friendly dessert option. Rating: 9/10.
Is Apple Pie Healthy or Unhealthy?
The perfect apple pie recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. Here's why:
- The crust is made with a significant amount of all-purpose flour, which is refined and lacks fiber and nutrients.
- The recipe calls for a large quantity of butter and shortening, both high in saturated fats.
- The filling contains a substantial amount of brown sugar, contributing to the pie's high sugar content.
- The recipe does not include any whole grains, nuts, or seeds that could provide additional nutrients and fiber.
While the apples themselves are a healthy ingredient, providing fiber and vitamins, the overall nutritional value of the pie is compromised by the added sugars and fats.
To make this apple pie recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat pastry flour to increase the fiber content and add more nutrients to the crust.
- Reduce the amount of butter and shortening in the crust, and replace some of it with Greek yogurt or coconut oil for a healthier fat profile.
- Cut back on the brown sugar in the filling, and instead rely on the natural sweetness of the apples. You can also add a touch of honey or maple syrup for a more natural sweetener.
- Experiment with adding some rolled oats, chopped nuts, or seeds to the crust or filling for added texture, fiber, and nutrients.
- Serve the pie with a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of ice cream or whipped cream to reduce the overall calorie and fat content of the dessert.
Editor's Opinion on This Apple Pie Recipe
The recipe for the perfect apple pie is well-crafted, with detailed instructions that guide the reader through the process. The use of golden delicious apples and the addition of lemon juice and brown sugar create a balanced and flavorful filling. The technique of pre-cooking the apples on the stovetop ensures a perfect texture and prevents a soggy crust. The step-by-step instructions for making the dough and assembling the pie are clear and easy to follow. Overall, this recipe promises a delicious, classic apple pie that will surely impress anyone who tries it.
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Why trust this Perfect Apple Pie Recipe:
This apple pie recipe is a tried and tested classic, perfected over generations. The golden delicious apples are carefully selected for their sweetness and texture, while the addition of cinnamon adds a warm and comforting flavor. The flaky, buttery crust is made with precision and attention to detail, ensuring a perfect balance of tenderness and crispness. The use of dark brown sugar in the filling creates a rich, caramelized sweetness that complements the tartness of the apples. With a meticulous cooking process and expertly chosen ingredients, this recipe guarantees a delectable and unforgettable dessert experience.
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