As the sweet and spicy scent of cinnamon hung in the air, I would rush home from school with my friends, eager to dive into my grandmother’s kitchen. The heart of our home, it was a treasure trove of tantalizing aromas and memories. Engaged in her spirited cooking, she would hum old folk tunes while showing me how to roll out dough and sprinkle sugar. One of our cherished traditions was making her famous spiced apple pie, which always brought a smile to my face and warmth to my heart. Each slice was a reminder of the love baked into the crust, a comfort food that celebrated the changing seasons, especially as the leaves turned vibrant hues of red and gold.
Today, I’m excited to share a delightful recipe that carries on this legacy: Grandma’s Spiced Apple Pie. Perfectly flaky and filled with tender spiced apples, it’s an irresistible dessert that beckons for cooler days and cozy gatherings. Whether served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, this pie is sure to bring joy to your table and hearts—just like it did during my childhood.
Why You’ll Love This Grandma’s Spiced Apple Pie
- Crowd-Pleaser: This classic dessert is sure to impress guests and loved ones alike.
- Seasonal Flavors: The warm spices are perfect for fall and winter celebrations.
- Customizable: Feel free to change up the spices or add a touch of caramel.
- Family Tradition: A recipe rooted in love that you can pass down through generations.
Ingredients
- 6-8 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work beautifully)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for dotting)
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Filling
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Peel and Slice Apples: Core and slice the apples into thin slices (about 1/8-inch thick).
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, toss the apples with sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and flour until well-coated.
- Let it Rest: Allow the mixture to sit for about 10 minutes to absorb flavors.
Assembling the Pie
- Prepare the Crust: Roll out one pie crust to fit your pie dish and place it in the dish.
- Fill the Crust: Pour the apple filling into the crust, mounding it slightly in the center.
- Dot with Butter: Add small pats of butter on top of the apple filling.
- Top Crust: Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the filling. Crimp the edges to seal and cut slits in the top for steam to escape.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Tips & Variations
- Spice It Up: Add allspice or cardamom for an extra flavor boost.
- Sweeten to Taste: Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of your apples.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pie crust to accommodate dietary needs.
- Decorative Topping: Consider cutting shapes out of the top crust for a more festive look.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration: Cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked pie before cooking; wrap tightly in foil for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To reheat, bake frozen pie at 425°F (220°C) for 25-30 minutes until hot.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Calories per Serving: Approximately 300 calories (based on 8 servings)
- Servings: 8
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use different types of apples?
A: Yes! A mix of tart and sweet apples like Fuji and Braeburn creates a more complex flavor.
Q: How do I make my pie crust flakier?
A: Use cold butter and handle the dough as little as possible to keep it light and flaky.
Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and crust in advance, then assemble and bake on the day you want to serve it.
Q: What can I serve with this pie?
A: It pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
Enjoy this delightful spiced apple pie with a warm cup of spiced cider or a scoop of homemade vanilla ice cream. For an extra treat, serve it with fresh whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Final Thoughts
I hope this recipe brings as much joy to your kitchen as it did to mine. The warmth of Grandma’s spiced apple pie is sure to be a family favorite, creating lasting memories around the table. I would love to hear your stories and any variations you try! Share your thoughts in the comments below or connect with me on social media with your creations. Happy baking!