How to create classic apple pie

How to Create a Classic Apple Pie: A Simple Guide for Everyone

Apple pie is a timeless dessert that fills kitchens with warmth, comfort, and the delicious aroma of baked apples and cinnamon. It’s a dish that brings people together and evokes feelings of nostalgia. If you’ve ever thought about making an apple pie but felt intimidated, don’t worry! With this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to create a classic apple pie in simple, easy-to-follow instructions. Let’s get baking!

What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather the following ingredients:

For the Pie Crust:
– 2½ cups (310g) of all-purpose flour
– 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter (cold, cut into small cubes)
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tbsp sugar
– 6 to 8 tbsp ice water

For the Apple Filling:
– 6 to 7 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith is great for tartness; Honeycrisp for sweetness, or mix both!)
– ½ cup (100g) sugar
– ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– ¼ tsp nutmeg (optional)
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tbsp butter (optional, for added richness)

Other Items:
– Rolling pin
– Mixing bowls
– Pie dish (9-inch)
– Knife or apple slicer
– Brush (for egg wash)

Step 1: Making the Perfect Pie Crust

The pie crust is the foundation of a delicious apple pie, so let’s make it from scratch.

Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar.
Add Butter: Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Use your hands or a pastry cutter to mix until the texture becomes crumbly, with small pieces of butter still visible.
Add Ice Water: Gradually sprinkle in the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. The dough should be slightly moist but not sticky.
Divide and Chill: Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape them into discs, and wrap them in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Preparing the Apple Filling

While the dough chills, it’s time to prepare the delicious apple filling.

Peel and Slice Apples: Wash, peel, and core the apples. Slice them thinly (about ¼-inch thick). Uniform slices ensure even cooking.
Mix the Filling: Toss the sliced apples in a large bowl with sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and lemon juice. This mixture will coat the apples and create a sweet, tangy, and spiced flavor.

Step 3: Assembling the Pie

Now for the fun part: putting it all together!

Roll Out the Dough: Remove the chilled dough from the fridge. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc into a round shape about 12 inches in diameter. It should be slightly bigger than your pie dish.
Line the Pie Dish: Carefully place the rolled-out dough over the pie dish. Gently press it into the dish and trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.
Fill the Crust: Pour the apple mixture into the crust-lined pie dish. Spread the apples evenly and ensure they’re slightly mounded in the center. Add small pieces of butter on top of the apples if desired.
Add the Top Crust: Roll out the second disc of dough to the same size. Place it over the apples. You can leave it whole or cut it into strips to make a lattice pattern. If leaving it whole, cut a few small slits on top to allow steam to escape during baking.
Seal and Crimp Edges: Press the top and bottom crusts together at the edges to seal. Use a fork or your fingers to crimp the edges for decoration.
Egg Wash: Brush the top crust with a beaten egg or milk to give it a golden color while baking.

Step 4: Baking the Pie

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the edges of the crust brown too quickly, cover them with strips of foil to prevent burning.
Cool Before Serving: Once baked, let the pie cool for at least 2 hours. This allows the filling to set and makes slicing easier.

Tips for the Perfect Apple Pie

Choose the Right Apples: Using a mix of sweet and tart apples adds depth to the flavor.
Don’t Skip the Chill: Keeping the dough cold ensures a flaky crust.
Experiment with Designs: Try weaving a lattice crust or using cookie cutters for a decorative top.
Serve with Love: A slice of warm apple pie pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Final Thoughts

Making a classic apple pie from scratch may seem intimidating at first, but with this simple guide, you’ll see how easy and rewarding it can be. From rolling out the dough to savoring the first bite, apple pie is a labor of love that’s sure to impress your family and friends. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and create a dessert that celebrates the joy of homemade goodness!

Enjoy your delicious apple pie! 👩‍🍳🍎