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The Best Apple Pie

Today, let’s chat about a classic dessert that’s as American as, well, apple pie! Yep, you guessed it—we’re diving into the delicious world of apple pie. So, grab a comfy seat, maybe a cup of tea or coffee, and let’s explore what makes this dessert so beloved.

Picture this: a warm slice of apple pie fresh out of the oven, its golden crust glistening with a sprinkle of sugar. The aroma of cinnamon and apples wafting through the air, tempting even the pickiest of eaters. Ah, it’s a scene straight out of a cozy family gathering or a quaint café.

But what’s the deal with apple pie? Why is it such a big deal? Well, for starters, it’s been a staple in American kitchens for centuries. The origins of apple pie in the United States can be traced back to early European settlers who brought their love for pies across the Atlantic. As they settled in the New World, they adapted their recipes to include ingredients readily available, like apples.

Fast forward to today, and apple pie holds a special place in American culture. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a symbol of home, comfort, and tradition. Whether it’s served at a barbecue, a Thanksgiving feast, or simply enjoyed on a cozy Sunday afternoon, apple pie has a way of bringing people together.

THE APPLES

But what exactly goes into making the perfect apple pie? Well, it starts with the apples, of course! There are countless varieties to choose from, each bringing its own unique flavor and texture to the table. Some folks swear by Granny Smith apples for their tartness, while others prefer the sweetness of Honeycrisp or Fuji apples. Whatever your preference, the key is to use apples that hold their shape when baked, ensuring a deliciously chunky filling.

THE CRUST

Next up, we have the crust—a crucial component of any good pie. Traditional apple pie crusts are typically made from a simple mixture of flour, butter, water, and a pinch of salt. Some bakers like to get fancy with their crusts, adding a dash of cinnamon or a sprinkle of sugar for extra flavor. But whether you’re a purist or a pastry pro, the goal is the same: a flaky, golden crust that perfectly complements the sweet, gooey filling.

THE SPICES

Of course, let’s not forget about the spices! Cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of cloves—these warm, aromatic spices are what give apple pie its signature flavor. Whether you like your pie spiced to the max or prefer just a subtle hint of warmth, it’s all about finding the perfect balance to enhance the natural sweetness of the apples.

LET’S EAT!

Now, let’s talk about serving up that slice of apple pie goodness. Some folks like it à la mode, topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for that perfect blend of hot and cold. Others prefer a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. And for the purists out there, a plain slice of warm apple pie is just fine on its own.

So, there you have it—the sweet story of apple pie. From its humble beginnings to its status as a beloved American (and Canadian) dessert, apple pie has truly stood the test of time. Whether enjoyed at a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just because, there’s something magical about that first bite of warm, comforting pie.

Now, who’s ready for a slice?

The Best Apple Pie

Recipe by Janet LyghtCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Medium
Servings

8

servings
Prep time

30

minutes
Cooking time

50

minutes
Total time

1

hour 

20

minutes

Ingredients

  • Pie Crust
  • 2 1/4 cup flour

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 cup shortening, cubed

  • 6 tablespoons cold water

  • Filling
  • 6 cups thinly sliced peeled apples (about 4 large apples)

  • 1/2 – 3/4 cup sugar, depending on the tartness of the apples

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Directions

  • Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Mix flour and salt in food processor. Add cubed shortening and pulse until mixture is the consistency of coarse crumbs.
  • Add water 1 tablespoon at a time, pulsing until flour mixture is evenly moistened and clings together (do not over mix). Remove dough and form into two balls. Flatten into 1/2 thick round. Wrap in plastic wrap and refridgerate 10 to 15 minutes.
  • In large bowl, toss apples with remaining ingredients. Remove one disc of dough from the refrigerator. Put another sheet of plastic wrap on top so dough is in between two sheet of plastic. Roll out dough with rolling pin working from the centre out until it is about 2 inches larger than your pie plate.
  • Peel off top wrap and invert dough into pie plate. Peel off remaining plastic and press dough evenly onto bottom and sides of pie plate, being careful not to stretch dough. Trim off any excess dough hanging over with knife.
  • Fill bottom crust with apple mixture. Roll out 2nd disc repeating the process above. Lay crust on top of filling and this time trim dough with about a 1/2 inch over hang using scissors. Fold top edge under the bottom crust edge. Flute the edge. Cut several slits near the centre of pie to allow steam to escape. Bake 45 to 50 minutes or until apples are cooked to your liking when tested with knife through vent in centre of pie.

Notes

  • I like to brush by crust before baking with a beaten egg and then sprinkled with course raw sugar. The whole egg gives the crust a golden brown top and the sugar provides a nice sparkle as well as a lovely sweet addition.

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