Indulge in the timeless delight of Classic Apple Pie, a beloved dessert that combines sweet, tender apples with a buttery, flaky crust. Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or a cozy evening treat, this pie offers a comforting blend of flavors and textures that never goes out of style. Easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire.
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Ingredients:
- For the Pie:
- 4 eggs
- 180g (1 cup) sugar
- 100g (3.5 oz) melted butter
- 200ml (3/4 cup + 2 tbsp) milk
- 370g (3 cups) all-purpose flour
- 10g (2 tsp) baking powder
- 2 apples, unpeeled and diced
- For the Topping:
- 60g (1/3 cup) sugar
- 60g (1/2 cup) all-purpose flour
- 45g (3 tbsp) cold butter
Directions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) pie dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Pie Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 3 cups (370g) all-purpose flour and 2 tsp baking powder.
- In a separate bowl, beat the 4 eggs with 1 cup (180g) sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the melted butter and mix well.
- Pour in 3/4 cup + 2 tbsp (200ml) milk and stir until combined.
- Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until a dough forms.
- Divide the dough into two portions, one slightly larger for the base and one for the top. Refrigerate while preparing the filling.
3. Prepare the Apple Filling:
- In a bowl, combine the diced apples with a sprinkle of sugar and set aside.
4. Assemble the Pie:
- Roll out the larger portion of dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish.
- Place the rolled dough into the prepared pie dish, pressing gently to fit.
- Pour the apple filling into the crust, spreading evenly.
5. Prepare the Topping:
- In a small bowl, mix 1/3 cup (60g) sugar with 1/2 cup (60g) all-purpose flour.
- Cut in 3 tbsp (45g) cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple filling.
6. Add the Top Crust:
- Roll out the remaining dough and place it over the topping.
- Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal.
- Make a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
7. Bake the Pie:
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning.
8. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving.
- Slice and enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Ice Cream: Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic combination.
- Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream for extra creaminess.
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the pie for added sweetness.
- Fresh Berries: Serve alongside a bowl of fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.
- Cheese Pairing: Pair with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese for a savory-sweet experience.
Cooking Tips:
- Prevent Soggy Crust: Brush the pie crust with a beaten egg before adding the filling to create a barrier.
- Even Apple Slices: Cut apples into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking and consistent texture.
- Chill the Dough: Refrigerate the dough portions to make rolling easier and prevent shrinking during baking.
- Use Parchment Paper: Line the pie dish with parchment paper for easier removal and cleaner presentation.
- Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple filling for extra warmth and spice.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Apples: Rich in fiber and vitamin C, supporting digestion and immune health.
- Eggs: Provide high-quality protein and essential nutrients like choline for brain function.
- Whole Grains: All-purpose flour offers carbohydrates for energy, while the eggs add protein.
- Butter: Adds healthy fats that are essential for energy and cell function.
- Milk: Provides calcium and vitamin D for strong bones and teeth.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Gluten-Free: No, due to all-purpose flour. Use gluten-free flour to make it gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: No, contains butter and milk. Substitute with plant-based alternatives to make it dairy-free.
- Nut-Free: Yes
- Low-Carb: Not low-carb due to the flour and sugar, but portion control can help manage carbohydrate intake.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 300mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Storage:
- Refrigeration: Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezing: Freeze whole or sliced pie in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating Tips: To maintain the crust’s crispiness, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Classic Flavor: Combines the timeless taste of sweet apples with a buttery, flaky crust.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it accessible for bakers of all levels.
- Versatile: Perfect for various occasions, from casual family dinners to festive celebrations.
- Nutritious: Packed with essential vitamins and nutrients from fresh apples and wholesome ingredients.
- Delicious Presentation: Beautifully golden crust and vibrant apple filling make it an impressive dessert.
Conclusion:
Classic Apple Pie is a beloved dessert that never fails to impress with its perfect balance of sweet apples and buttery crust. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a comforting treat, this pie is sure to satisfy. Its easy preparation and delightful flavors make it a staple in any kitchen. Enjoy a slice of this heavenly pie with loved ones and savor the timeless taste that brings everyone together.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use a different type of apple for this pie?
Yes, Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples work well. Choose apples that hold their shape when baked. - How do I prevent the crust from shrinking?
Chill the dough thoroughly before rolling and handle it gently to maintain its shape. - Can I make the pie crust ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the crust up to two days in advance and keep it refrigerated until ready to use. - What if my filling is too runny?
Add a tablespoon of cornstarch to thicken the filling before baking. - Can I add other fruits to the pie?
Absolutely! Pears, blueberries, or cranberries can be added for a unique twist. - How can I make the pie lower in sugar?
Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling and crust, or use a sugar substitute to suit your taste. - Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes, store-bought crusts are a convenient alternative and work just as well. - How do I keep the top crust from burning?
Cover the edges with aluminum foil halfway through baking to prevent over-browning. - Can I make individual mini pies?
Yes, use a muffin tin or small ramekins to make mini apple pies, adjusting the baking time accordingly. - What can I serve with apple pie?
Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a slice of sharp cheddar cheese complement the pie beautifully.
Enjoy your Classic Apple Pie! It’s a perfect blend of sweet, tender apples and a buttery crust that will delight your taste buds and warm your heart.