5-Step Easy Granny Smith Apple Pie Recipe

Granny Smith apple pie is a delightful dessert that combines the tartness of the iconic green apples with a sweet, crumbly crust. Whether you're baking for a special occasion or simply craving a slice of homemade goodness, this recipe will guide you through crafting a delicious pie with ease.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 ¹⁄₂ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
• ¹⁄₄ to ¹⁄₂ cup ice water

For the Filling:

• 6-7 Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
• ³⁄₄ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 egg (beaten for egg wash)
• Sugar for sprinkling on top

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare the Pie Crust

Start with the crust since it needs to rest:

• In a food processor, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Pulse to mix.
• Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Gradually add ice water, starting with ¹⁄₄ cup, pulsing until the dough begins to clump together.
• Transfer dough to a floured surface, knead briefly, divide into two disks, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least an hour.

2. Make the Apple Filling

While the dough chills:

• In a large bowl, mix the apple slices with sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch.
• Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

🍏 Note: If the apple slices are particularly tart or if you prefer a sweeter pie, adjust the sugar amount to taste.

3. Assemble the Pie

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
• Roll out one disk of dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle for the base of the pie. Fit it into your pie dish, leaving overhang.
• Layer the apple filling into the crust, dot with butter.
• Roll out the second disk for the top crust. You can make a lattice or cover entirely, cutting slits for steam to escape.
• Brush the top with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar.

4. Bake the Pie

• Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C), then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for another 40-50 minutes. Cover the edges with foil if they brown too quickly.
• Test if the apples are tender by inserting a knife into the center.

5. Cool and Serve

• Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours to set the filling before serving. This patience is key for a well-sliced pie!

To wrap up, making an apple pie from scratch isn't just about following a recipe; it's about the joy of the process. Each step, from mixing the dough to watching the pie bake, adds to the anticipation of that first delicious bite. The combination of the tart Granny Smith apples with the rich, flaky crust creates a balance that's hard to beat. Your efforts will be rewarded with a dessert that not only tastes of comfort but also brings people together in the simplest of traditions.

Can I use other types of apples for this pie?

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Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a tart contrast to the sweet filling, feel free to mix or replace with varieties like Honeycrisp for sweetness or Golden Delicious for a softer texture. Just adjust the sugar if needed.

How do I store the pie if I make it in advance?

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You can store the pie at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to a week. If freezing, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it can last up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

Can I make this pie without a food processor for the crust?

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Definitely! While a food processor makes quick work of the dough, you can use a pastry blender or two knives to cut the butter into the flour, ensuring a flaky crust.