Apple Pie Perfection: A Classic Dessert Recipe
Apple Pie Perfection: A Classic Dessert Recipe
Welcome to a journey of taste and tradition with this classic dessert recipe: the perfect apple pie. This beloved dish is a staple in many households, especially during the fall and winter months. With its flaky crust, sweet and tart filling, and a touch of cinnamon, it's a dessert that can bring warmth and comfort to any gathering.
Ingredients
- For the crust:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water
- For the filling:
- 6 to 7 cups thinly sliced tart apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- For the topping:
- 1 large egg white
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse meal. Gradually add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and salt until evenly coated. Set aside.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a rack in the lower third of the oven.
Step 4: Roll Out the Crust
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll out on a lightly floured surface to a 1/8-inch thickness. Roll the dough around your rolling pin and gently transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, pressing the dough into the bottom and sides of the dish. Trim the excess dough, leaving about a 1-inch overhang.
Step 5: Fill the Pie
Fill the pie crust with the apple mixture, mounding the apples in the center. Fold the overhanging dough over and crimp the edges to seal.
Step 6: Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg white and water. Brush the top of the pie with the egg white mixture and sprinkle with sugar.
Step 7: Bake the Pie
Place the pie on the preheated oven rack and bake for 20 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue to bake for an additional 30 to 40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the edges of the crust begin to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Remove the pie from the oven and transfer it to a wire rack to cool for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the juices to thicken and the flavors to meld together. Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Tips for Perfection
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor balance.
- Chill your pie dough well to prevent shrinkage during baking.
- Don't overwork the dough when mixing or rolling out, as this can lead to a tough crust.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the apples evenly and prevent them from turning brown.
- Allow the pie to cool completely before cutting to ensure a clean slice and a firm filling.
Enjoy this classic dessert recipe and create some delicious memories with friends and family. Happy baking!
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