Apple pie is a classic American dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. It consists of a flaky, buttery crust filled with sweet and tangy apple slices, which are typically spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and other warm spices. The pie is then baked until the filling is tender and bubbling, creating a warm and comforting dessert that is perfect for any occasion.
The origins of apple pie are unclear, but it is believed to have been brought to America by early European settlers. Today, it is a staple of American cuisine and is enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds.
There are many different variations of apple pie, with some recipes calling for a lattice crust, streusel topping, or even a cheddar cheese crust. Some recipes may also include other fruits, such as cranberries or pears, or additional flavorings, such as caramel or bourbon.
Apple pie is often served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, which complements the warm, spicy flavors of the pie. It is a popular dessert for holidays, such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, but can be enjoyed year-round.
Overall, apple pie is a beloved American dessert that has stood the test of time. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of coffee for breakfast or as a sweet finish to a family dinner, apple pie is a comforting and delicious treat that is sure to please.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4-1/2 cup ice water
For the filling:
- 6 cups thinly sliced and peeled apples
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
Instructions:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar for the crust.
- Add the cold and cubed butter to the flour mixture, and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse sand.
- Add the ice water, a little at a time, until the dough comes together and is not too sticky. Divide the dough into two equal portions and flatten them into disks. Wrap each disk in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In another large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt for the filling. Toss everything together until the apples are coated.
- Roll out one of the dough disks on a floured surface to fit your 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the dough to the pie dish, and trim the edges. Pour the apple filling into the pie dish, and dot the filling with the cubed butter.
- Roll out the other dough disk and place it over the top of the apple filling. Trim the edges and crimp them together to seal the pie. Cut a few slits in the top of the pie to let steam escape.
- Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the crust is browning too quickly, cover the pie with aluminum foil.
- Let the pie cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.