A Taste of Autumn: Grandma’s Apple Pie
As the leaves turn golden and the air becomes crisp, I can’t help but think of my childhood days spent in my grandmother’s kitchen. The sweet aroma of cinnamon and baked apples wafted through the house, beckoning us to gather around the table. Every fall, we’d pick apples from her orchard, filling baskets to the brim. Those afternoons were filled with laughter, stories, and the joy of creating something magical. This recipe for Classic Apple Pie is not just a dessert; it’s a family tradition that has been passed down, capturing the warmth of autumn and the love woven through each slice.
What makes this pie truly special is the combination of tart and sweet apples, blended with just the right spices for that comforting flavor. It’s the ultimate fall dessert that brings friends and family together, making every bite a nostalgic experience. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s create a pie that will fill your home with delightful memories and encourage everyone to gather ’round the table!
Why You’ll Love This Apple Pie
- Classic Comfort: A timeless recipe cherished by generations.
- Customizable: Use your favorite apple varieties for a personalized touch.
- Perfect for Sharing: A generous pie that serves a crowd, making it ideal for gatherings.
- Kid-Approved: It’s sweet, warm, and utterly delicious—who can resist?
- Baking Fun: Get the kids involved in rolling dough and assembling the pie.
Ingredients
- 6-8 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or your favorite)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (to dot)
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges.
- In a large bowl, combine the apple slices with lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Mix until the apples are well-coated.
2. Assemble the Pie
- Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate.
- Pour the apple filling into the crust and dot the top with small pieces of butter.
- Roll out the second crust and either place it whole over the filling or slice it into strips to create a lattice design.
- Seal the edges by crimping with your fingers or a fork.
3. Egg Wash
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Brush the mixture over the top crust for a golden finish.
4. Bake
- Bake the pie for 15 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
Tips & Variations
- Apple Variety: Mix different types of apples for a complex flavor—try adding a tart apple like Granny Smith with a sweet option like Fuji.
- Spice it Up: Experiment with additional spices like cardamom or allspice for an aromatic twist.
- Add-ins: Consider including a handful of raisins or nuts for extra texture.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap the pie in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through.
Nutritional Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Calories: 280 per slice
- Servings: 8
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes, store-bought crust works great for a quick and easy option!
2. How can I make the pie less sweet?
Reduce the sugar to half a cup, or use honey or maple syrup as a natural sweetener.
3. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
4. What apples are best for baking?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Braeburn apples hold up well during baking and provide a nice balance of sweet and tart flavors.
Serving Suggestions or Pairings
Pair your apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. Serve it with a warm cup of spiced cider or a dash of cinnamon tea to enhance those cozy fall vibes.
Final Thoughts
This classic apple pie, with its rich spices and tender apples, is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of family and tradition. I hope it brings as much joy to your home as it has to mine. Please share your versions in the comments below, and let’s keep the tradition of family recipes alive! Happy baking!
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Grandma’s Apple Pie
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic apple pie recipe filled with sweet and tart apples, infused with warm spices, perfect for fall gatherings.
Ingredients
- 6–8 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or your favorite)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (to dot)
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade if you’re feeling adventurous)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges.
- In a large bowl, combine the apple slices with lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Mix until the apples are well-coated.
- Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate.
- Pour the apple filling into the crust and dot the top with small pieces of butter.
- Roll out the second crust and either place it whole over the filling or slice it into strips to create a lattice design.
- Seal the edges by crimping with your fingers or a fork.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Brush the mixture over the top crust for a golden finish.
- Bake the pie for 15 minutes in the preheated oven.
- Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are bubbly and the crust is golden brown.
Notes
Try mixing different apple varieties for complex flavors. You can also add a handful of raisins or nuts for extra texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 35mg