Nothing says comfort quite like a homemade apple pie. The warm, sweet aroma of apples and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen is simply irresistible. This classic apple pie recipe features a delightful lattice or woven pie top, adding a touch of elegance to a timeless dessert. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, this recipe is sure to impress. The combination of tender apples, warm spices, and a flaky crust makes this pie a favorite for all ages. Let’s dive into the details of creating this beautiful and delicious apple pie.
Ingredients
Apple Filling:
- 500 grams (4 cups) apples, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 tablespoon (4 grams) cinnamon powder
- 1/3 cup (80 grams) unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
- 1/8 cup (16 grams) cornstarch or corn flour (use slightly more if substituting with all-purpose flour)
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) water
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling:
- In a large saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Add the granulated sugar, cinnamon powder, and water. Stir until well combined.
- Add the peeled and sliced apples to the saucepan. Cook for about 10 minutes, or until the apples are tender.
- Sprinkle in the cornstarch (or flour if substituting), stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Pie Crust:
- Roll out your favorite pie crust dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish.
- Pour the cooled apple filling into the crust.
- Create the Lattice Top:
- Roll out the second portion of the pie crust dough.
- Cut the dough into even strips about 1/2 inch wide.
- Lay the strips over the filled pie in a lattice pattern (weaving them over and under one another).
- Trim any excess dough from the edges and crimp the edges to seal.
- Egg Wash:
- Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the lattice top. This will give the pie a beautiful golden color as it bakes.
- Bake the Pie:
- Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the pie to cool completely before serving to let the filling set.
Cooking Tips
- Apple Variety: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a more complex flavor. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work well together.
- Thickening Agent: Cornstarch works best to thicken the filling, but all-purpose flour can be used in a pinch. Just be sure to use a little more flour.
- Prevent Sogginess: Sprinkle a bit of flour or breadcrumbs on the bottom crust before adding the filling to prevent it from becoming soggy.
- Crust Handling: Ensure your pie crust is chilled before rolling out. This helps in handling and prevents the crust from shrinking while baking.
Nutritional Benefits
- Apples: Rich in dietary fiber, which is great for digestive health. They are also packed with vitamin C, which boosts your immune system.
- Cinnamon: Contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help with overall health and well-being.
- Butter: Provides essential fats that are necessary for the body to absorb vitamins. While it’s important to consume in moderation, butter adds a richness that makes this pie indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic Flavor: The combination of apples and cinnamon is a timeless favorite that evokes memories of home and family gatherings.
- Beautiful Presentation: The lattice top adds an elegant touch to the pie, making it look as good as it tastes. It’s perfect for impressing guests at any occasion.
- Versatile: This pie is perfect for any occasion, from holidays to casual family dinners. It can be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed cold for a snack.
- Customizable: You can easily customize this recipe by adding nuts, raisins, or a splash of lemon juice to the filling for added texture and flavor.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, making it suitable for those who do not eat meat.
- Nut-Free: Contains no nuts, making it suitable for those with nut allergies.
- Contains Dairy: This recipe includes butter and an egg wash, so it is not suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies. However, you can use dairy-free butter and a milk wash as substitutes.
Why This Recipe Works
- Balance of Flavors: The sweetness of the apples and sugar is perfectly balanced with the warmth of the cinnamon, creating a comforting and satisfying flavor profile.
- Perfect Texture: The cornstarch ensures the filling is thick and not runny, while the lattice top adds a delightful crunch. The combination of a flaky crust and tender filling is what makes this pie so irresistible.
- Visual Appeal: The lattice top is not only beautiful but also functional, allowing steam to escape and preventing a soggy crust. It adds a professional touch that will impress your family and friends.
Conclusion
This apple pie recipe with a lattice top is a delightful dessert that combines classic flavors with a touch of elegance. Its perfect balance of sweetness and spice, along with a beautiful presentation, makes it a showstopper at any gathering. Enjoy a slice of this delicious pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat. The combination of tender, spiced apples and a crisp, buttery crust is sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. So go ahead, bake this pie.