Discover the Joy of Classic Homemade Apple Pie Today!

Ah, the classic homemade apple pie – a timeless dessert that evokes cozy autumn afternoons and warm family gatherings. This beloved recipe features a buttery, flaky crust surrounding a filling of sweet, spiced apples that practically melt in your mouth. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting treat, this Classic Homemade Apple Pie is sure to delight.

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The Allure of Apple Pie

There’s just something about the aroma of a freshly baked Classic Homemade Apple Pie that instantly transports us back to our childhoods, evoking memories of Mom or Grandma’s kitchen. The combination of tender apples, warm spices, and a buttery crust is truly irresistible. No wonder this dessert has become a beloved American tradition, gracing tables for generations.

Essential Ingredients for Classic Homemade Apple Pie

For the Pie Crust:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter (very cold, sliced)
• 3 tablespoons sour cream (very cold)
• ½ cup ice-cold water

For the Apple Filling:

• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ¾ cup sugar
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ teaspoon cloves
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon allspice
• 3 pounds apples (about 7 medium-sized, peeled and sliced)
• 1 egg
• ½ teaspoon water

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making the Pie Crust

Crafting the perfect Classic Homemade Apple Pie starts with the foundation – the crust. Here’s how to make a buttery, flaky pastry that will hold up to the juicy apple filling:

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt.

   
   

2. Cut the very cold butter into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or two forks until it resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces.

   
   

3. Add the cold sour cream and 1-2 tablespoons of ice-cold water, mixing gently until the dough just begins to come together.

   
   

4. Divide the dough into two equal portions, wrap them in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 3 days).

   
   

Preparing the Apple Filling

With the crust ready, it’s time to turn our attention to the star of the show – the apple filling. To create the perfect balance of sweet, spiced, and tart flavors, follow these steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a baking sheet inside to preheat as well.

   
   

2. Peel the apples and slice half of them ⅓ inch thick and the other half ¼ inch thick. This will create a lovely texture in the filling.

   
   

3. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with the flour, sugar, lemon juice and zest, salt, nutmeg, cloves, cinnamon, and allspice until well coated.

   
   

Assembling the Apple Pie

Now that the crust and filling are ready, it’s time to bring this Classic Homemade Apple Pie together. Follow these steps to create a beautifully layered and sealed pie:

1. Roll one of the chilled dough halves into a 12-inch circle and carefully place it into a 9-inch pie dish, trimming the excess dough from the edges.

   
   

2. Carefully spoon the apple filling into the prepared crust, slightly mounding it in the center.

   
   

3. Roll out the remaining dough half and place it over the filling. Trim the excess dough, tuck the edges under, and crimp or flute the edges to seal

Baking the Apple Pie

With the Classic Homemade Apple Pie assembled, it’s time to bake it to perfection. Follow these tips for a beautifully golden crust and a tender, juicy filling:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water to create an egg wash. Brush the top crust with the egg wash, then cut 4 vents in the crust to allow steam to escape.

   
   

2. Place the pie on the preheated baking sheet and bake at 425°F for 25 minutes. Reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for an additional 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

   
   

3. If the crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil to prevent burning while allowing the filling to finish cooking.

   
   

Cooling and Serving Suggestions

The final step in creating this Classic Homemade Apple Pie is to allow it to cool completely before serving. This allows the filling to set and the flavors to meld together perfectly. Once cooled, slice and serve this delightful dessert warm, with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. Enjoy the buttery, flaky crust and the warm, spiced apple filling – it’s a true taste of autumn bliss!

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Homemade Southern Peach Pie
• Pecan Upside Down Cake
• Pecan Pie Cookies
• Spiced Peach Bread

FAQs About Classic Homemade Apple Pie

What should I do if my pie crust is too crumbly?

If your pie crust is too crumbly, it typically means that there isn’t enough moisture in the dough. To fix this, you can gradually add a teaspoon of ice-cold water at a time, mixing gently until the dough holds together. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as this can lead to a tough crust. If you’ve already rolled it out and found it crumbly, you can patch it by dabbing a little water on the dry areas and pressing them together gently.

How can I tell when my apple pie is done baking?

To determine if your Classic Homemade Apple Pie is done baking, look for a golden-brown crust and bubbling filling. The filling should be visibly bubbling through the vents on the top crust, indicating that the juices are hot and the apples are tender. You can also insert a knife into the filling to check if the apples are soft. If the crust is browning too quickly, you can cover the edges with foil to prevent burning while allowing the filling to cook through.

Is it necessary to peel the apples for apple pie?

While traditional recipes usually call for peeled apples to achieve a smoother texture and better flavor integration, it is not strictly necessary. Some people enjoy the added texture and nutrients from the skin. If you choose to leave the skins on, use thin-skinned apples and slice them very thinly to ensure they soften adequately during baking. Just be aware that the pie may have a slightly different texture and appearance.

Can I make the apple pie filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the apple pie filling ahead of time! To do this, prepare the filling as instructed but store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. To prevent browning, make sure to toss the apples with lemon juice as you prepare them. When you’re ready to assemble the pie, simply drain any excess liquid that may have accumulated before filling your crust. This will help maintain a flaky crust and prevent sogginess.

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.

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