Apple pie is a beloved dessert, known for its delicious combination of a buttery, flaky crust and a sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple filling. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, the Betty Crocker Apple Pie Recipe is straightforward, ensuring a perfect pie every time. Here's how you can make an apple pie that will impress everyone at your next gathering.
Ingredients for Apple Pie
- Crust
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons shortening or 2/3 cup lard
- 4 to 5 tablespoons cold water
- Filling
- 6 cups thinly sliced, peeled apples (around 6 medium)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Additional
- Milk and sugar for the top crust
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Crust
Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt.
- Cut in the shortening or lard using a pastry blender or your fingers until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the cold water over the mixture one tablespoon at a time, tossing with a fork until all flour is moistened, and the dough sticks together.
✅ Note: Do not overwork the dough as this can result in a tough crust.
Chill and Roll Out
- Form the dough into two balls, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- On a floured surface, roll each ball into a circle approximately 12 inches in diameter.
Assembling the Apple Pie
Prepare the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Add the sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour to the apples, mixing gently until well combined.
Constructing the Pie
- Place one rolled-out dough in a 9-inch pie plate, allowing the edges to hang over.
- Fill the crust with the apple mixture, heaping it slightly in the center.
- Moisten the edge of the dough with a little water, then cover with the second rolled-out dough. Seal the edges by fluting or crimping.
Baking the Pie
- Cut several slits in the top of the crust to allow steam to escape.
- Brush the top with milk and sprinkle with sugar for a golden crust.
- Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling through the slits.
✅ Note: Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips during baking.
Serving and Storage
- Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before serving to let the filling set.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
In conclusion, making an apple pie doesn't have to be daunting. With the simple steps provided by Betty Crocker, you can create a pie that not only looks beautiful but also tastes divine. The key is in the perfect balance of a flaky crust and a richly flavored apple filling, ensuring every slice is a delight. Enjoy the process and the rewards of homemade baking!
Can I use a different type of apple for this recipe?
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Yes, while Granny Smith apples are often used for their tartness, you can also use Honeycrisp, Gala, or a mix to achieve the desired flavor and texture.
What if I don’t have shortening or lard?
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Butter can be substituted for shortening or lard, though keep in mind that butter has a higher water content which might make the crust slightly less flaky.
How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?
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Pre-baking or blind baking the bottom crust for about 10 minutes can help, as well as ensuring your apple mixture isn’t too wet by properly draining any excess moisture.
How long will an apple pie last?
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An apple pie will last up to 2 days at room temperature or up to 5 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider freezing.
