There's nothing quite like the aroma of a freshly baked Homemade Sweet Apple Pie wafting through your kitchen, inviting family and friends to gather around the table. This classic American dessert, with its flaky crust and sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple filling, is sure to become a cherished staple in your home. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a cozy evening, this recipe will have you mastering the art of pie-making in no time. Get ready to impress your loved ones with a slice of nostalgia that’s as delicious as it is heartwarming!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
- 6 cups sliced apples
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar for the pie crust. Cut the chilled butter into small cubes and work it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 1 hour to allow the gluten to relax.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). While the dough chills, prepare the apple filling by peeling, coring, and slicing the apples into thin, uniform pieces.
- In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to allow the apples to release their juices.
- Remove the dough from the refrigerator. Roll out one disc on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish, allowing some overhang. Carefully transfer the dough to the pie dish.
- Pour the apple filling into the pie crust, and dot with the tablespoon of butter. Roll out the second disc of dough and create a top crust, either as a full cover with slits or as a lattice design.
- Crimp the edges of the pie crust to seal, and brush the top with an egg wash for a golden finish if desired. Sprinkle with additional sugar for extra sweetness.
- Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips, and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with vanilla ice cream.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor and texture, use a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination will give your pie a balanced taste.
- Chill Your Ingredients: Make sure your butter is well-chilled before incorporating it into the flour. This helps create a flaky crust. You can even chill your mixing bowl and utensils for extra precaution.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the dough to rest in the refrigerator for an hour is crucial. It relaxes the gluten, making it easier to roll out and preventing shrinkage during baking.
- Slice Uniformly: When preparing the apples, slice them into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. This will help the filling cook perfectly and avoid any mushy spots.
- Let it Cool: After baking, resist the urge to slice into your pie right away. Letting it cool for at least 2 hours allows the filling to set, making for cleaner slices.
- Serve with Ice Cream: For an irresistible treat, serve your pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The combination of hot and cold is simply divine!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Cholesterol: 65mg
