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A Nostalgic Connection to Apple Pie

Growing up in my grandmother’s kitchen, the warm and inviting scent of cinnamon and baked apples would float through the air every autumn. Apple pie wasn’t just a dessert; it was a tradition, a family gathering, and a comforting embrace after a long day. Each year, as the leaves turned from lush green to brilliant shades of orange and red, the preparation of her famous apple pie became a ritual, filled with laughter and the sound of my grandmother’s stories echoing around the table.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it encapsulates the essence of American home cooking, steeped in seasonal traditions that bring people together. With its flaky crust and spiced filling, this apple pie is not only a delight to the taste buds but also a reminder of the cherished moments spent with loved ones. So roll up your sleeves, and let’s bring a touch of nostalgia into your kitchen with this beloved classic!

Why You’ll Love This DIY Apple Pie

• Classic American dessert: A timeless recipe loved by all.
• Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples.
• Family-friendly: Perfect for baking together with kids.
• Customizable filling: Feel free to add your favorite spices or fruits.
• Golden, flaky crust: A perfect balance of buttery and crisp.

Ingredients

• For the Pie Crust:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
  • 6-8 tablespoons ice water

• For the Filling:

  • 6 cups peeled and sliced apples (granny smith or your choice)
  • ¾ cup sugar (adjust based on apple sweetness)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons flour

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making the Pie Crust

1. Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Cut in the butter: Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add ice water: Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough holds together.
4. Chill the dough: Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Preparing the Filling

1. Toss the apples: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with lemon juice, sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix gently to coat all slices evenly.

Assembling the Pie

1. Preheat oven: to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out dough: On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to fit your pie pan. Transfer to the pan, trimming excess.
3. Fill the pie: Pour the apple mixture into the crust, spreading evenly.
4. Top crust: Roll out the second disc of dough and lay it over the pie. Cut slits for steam and crimp edges to seal.
5. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 35-45 minutes or until apples are tender and crust is golden brown.

Tips & Variations

• Apple choices: Experiment with a mix of tart and sweet apples for depth of flavor.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of clove or allspice for an extra kick.
• Vegan option: Substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter, and use a dairy-free milk alternative.
• Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free baking mix for the crust.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and crust regains crispiness.

Nutritional Information

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Calories per serving: 250
• Servings: 8

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought pie crust?

   • Absolutely! Store-bought crust is a great time-saver if you’re short on time.

2. Which apples are best for pie?

   • Tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work wonderfully together for a balanced flavor.

3. Can I make this ahead of time?

   • Yes! Prepare the pie and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours; bake just before serving.

4. How do I know when my pie is done?

   • The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and you can see the filling bubbling through the vents.

Serving Suggestions or Pairings

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Pair with a hot cup of spiced cider or a hearty black coffee to complement the sweet flavors.

Final Thoughts

Baking this apple pie not only fills your home with delightful aromas but also creates lasting memories with each slice shared. I encourage you to put your spin on this classic recipe and share your versions in the comments below—I’d love to hear your family stories and any special twists you add! Happy baking!

Grandmother’s Apple Pie

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• Author: rosalind-chef-2
• Total Time: 90 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A classic apple pie filled with tender, spiced apples and wrapped in a flaky crust, perfect for family gatherings.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
• 6–8 tablespoons ice water
• 6 cups peeled and sliced apples (Granny Smith or your choice)
• ¾ cup sugar (adjust based on apple sweetness)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons flour

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Instructions

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough holds together.
4. Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
5. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with lemon juice, sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix gently to coat all slices evenly.
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
7. On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to fit your pie pan. Transfer to the pan, trimming excess.
8. Pour the apple mixture into the crust, spreading evenly.
9. Roll out the second disc of dough and lay it over the pie. Cut slits for steam and crimp edges to seal.
10. Place in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 35-45 minutes or until apples are tender and crust is golden brown.

Notes

Experiment with different apple varieties for unique flavors. For a vegan option, substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 30mg