Apple pie is a classic dessert loved by many across the globe, and it's easy to see why. The combination of warm, spiced apples encased in a flaky, buttery crust is simply irresistible. Today, we'll dive into two delicious recipes that put the spotlight on apples—Apple Pie and Apple Crumble Pie—ensuring you have all the tools and knowledge to whip up these treats at home. Whether you're aiming for simplicity or a slightly more textured top, these recipes cater to different palates and skill levels in the kitchen.
Traditional Apple Pie Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1⁄4 to 1⁄2 cup ice water
- 6-8 cups thinly sliced, peeled, and cored apples (use a mix of varieties like Granny Smith, Gala, and Honeycrisp)
- 3⁄4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1⁄4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1⁄8 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1⁄4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Granulated sugar or coarse sugar for sprinkling on top (optional)
Instructions:
- Make the Crust: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar. Add the butter pieces and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, stirring with a fork until the dough starts to come together. Divide the dough in half, form into disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least an hour.
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine apples with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, flour, and lemon juice. Mix well and let sit while you roll out the dough.
- Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out one disk to fit your pie dish. Transfer to the pie dish, leaving a little overhang. Trim excess dough. Add the apple filling into the crust, mounding it slightly in the center.
- Top and Finish: Roll out the second disk for the top. You can make a lattice or simple top. Crimp the edges to seal. Brush the top with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar if desired.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch drips. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for another 40-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling. If the edges brown too quickly, cover with foil.
🍏 Note: Always let the pie cool for a few hours before slicing. This allows the filling to set, preventing a runny pie.
Apple Crumble Pie Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or use the crust recipe from the traditional pie)
- 6 cups apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 2⁄3 cup white sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1⁄4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1⁄2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1⁄3 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1⁄3 cup rolled oats
- 1⁄3 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pie Crust: If using homemade, follow the instructions for the traditional pie crust. If store-bought, let it come to room temperature.
- Make the Filling: Mix the apples with white sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice in a bowl, then transfer this mixture into the pie crust.
- Make the Crumble Topping: In a separate bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, and oats. Work in the butter until the mixture forms pea-sized crumbs.
- Assemble and Bake: Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple filling. Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45-55 minutes, or until the crumble is golden and the apples are tender.
🍎 Note: The crumble topping can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge to save time on the day of baking.
In summary, apple pies offer a delightful variety of textures and flavors, whether you choose the simplicity of the traditional crust or the extra crunch from a crumble top. With these recipes, you’re equipped to enjoy or share this iconic dessert, adjusting the sweetness and spice to your taste. Now, let’s address some common questions about apple pies.
Can I use frozen apples for apple pie?
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Yes, you can use frozen apples. Ensure they are properly defrosted and drained to remove excess moisture, which can make your pie soggy.
What’s the best type of apple to use for apple pie?
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Granny Smith apples are a popular choice for their tartness and firmness when baked. However, a mix of different apples like Honeycrisp or Gala can offer a variety of textures and flavors.
How do I prevent my apple pie from having a soggy bottom crust?
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To prevent a soggy crust, use a pre-baked bottom crust, place a layer of bread crumbs or almond flour at the bottom before adding the apples, and consider baking the pie at a higher temperature for the first part of the baking time to set the crust quickly.
Can I freeze an unbaked apple pie?
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Yes, you can freeze an unbaked apple pie. Assemble it, wrap it well, and freeze it. When ready to bake, add some extra baking time as it will take longer for the filling to heat through.
