When the crisp air signals the arrival of autumn, nothing feels more comforting than the scent of cinnamon and warm apples baking together in the kitchen. This easy Betty Crocker's Apple Pie recipe will guide you through making a classic dessert with minimal fuss, ensuring everyone can enjoy the taste of a homemade apple pie right out of their own oven.
Ingredients List
To start your journey towards an impeccable apple pie, gather the following ingredients:
- 6-8 cups thinly sliced, peeled apples (use a mix of tart and sweet varieties)
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 2 pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
- Milk and additional sugar for the pie crust finish
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Prepare the Apple Filling
Start with preparing your apples:
- Peel and thinly slice 6-8 cups of apples.
- Mix with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Combine sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt in a separate bowl, then add to the apples and toss until evenly coated.
Pie Crust Assembly
Take your pie crusts:
- If you're using store-bought crusts, let them thaw if frozen.
- Line the bottom of a 9-inch pie dish with one crust.
Fill and Top Your Pie
Now it's time to assemble:
- Pour the apple mixture into the crust-lined pie dish.
- Top with small pieces of butter for extra richness.
- Cover with the second crust, seal the edges, and make some vents with a knife to allow steam to escape.
- Brush the top with milk and sprinkle with sugar for a golden, glittery finish.
Baking Instructions
Follow these baking steps to perfect your apple pie:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place the pie on a lower oven rack to allow the bottom crust to cook evenly.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for another 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
- Cover the pie edges with foil if they start browning too quickly.
Serving Suggestions
Once your apple pie is perfectly baked:
- Let it cool for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the filling to set.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or enjoy it as is for that true, traditional taste.
💡 Note: If the apples release a lot of juice during baking, use a slotted spoon to add them into the pie crust to avoid a soggy bottom.
In wrapping up, this Betty Crocker's Apple Pie recipe provides a delightful experience, blending flavors and tradition into a timeless dessert. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, even baking novices can produce a dessert that's both aesthetically pleasing and delicious, capturing the essence of fall in every bite. The key to success is in choosing the right apple varieties, the perfect blend of spices, and the patience to let the pie cool. Serve this at your next family gathering or holiday event, and you'll become the new favorite for apple pie lovers everywhere.
How do I store leftover apple pie?
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Wrap the leftover apple pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the pie for up to 3 months, allowing it to thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Can I use a different type of apple?
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Yes, you can experiment with different types of apples. However, for the best texture and flavor balance, use a combination of firm, tart apples like Granny Smith with sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp. Avoid using soft apples as they can turn mushy during baking.
What if my pie filling is too watery?
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This can happen if the apples release a lot of juice. Before filling your pie, you can precook the apples for a few minutes to reduce some of the liquid. Also, adding a bit more flour or cornstarch to the mixture can help thicken the filling.
How do I keep the bottom crust from getting soggy?
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Use a pre-baked or par-baked crust, sprinkle a small amount of breadcrumbs or cornstarch on the bottom crust before adding the filling, and ensure your pie plate is not too deep, allowing for a good crust-to-filling ratio. Baking the pie on the lower rack of your oven can also help to ensure the bottom crust cooks through.
