Homemade Apple Pie

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Why Make This Recipe

Homemade apple pie is a classic dessert that warms the heart and fills the home with delightful aromas. Making your own pie allows you to enjoy fresh flavors and control the sweetness to your liking. It’s perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or a simple treat any day of the week. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of serving a pie made from scratch.

How to Make Homemade Apple Pie

Ingredients

  • 3 pounds good cooking apples
  • 1 large egg yolk
  • 1 tablespoon cream
  • 1 recipe double crust sour cream pie dough
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon brandy
  • 1/2 cup to 2/3 cup sugar

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Peel, core, and slice the apples.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, lemon juice, and brandy.
  4. Roll out half of the pie dough and place it in a pie dish.
  5. Fill the crust with the apple mixture.
  6. Roll out the second half of the dough and place it over the filling. Seal and cut slits in the top.
  7. Brush the top with the egg yolk mixed with cream.
  8. Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for another 35-45 minutes until the apples are tender and the crust is golden.

How to Serve Homemade Apple Pie

Serve your homemade apple pie warm or at room temperature. It is delicious on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. A drizzle of warm caramel sauce can also make it extra special.

How to Store Homemade Apple Pie

To store your apple pie, let it cool completely, then cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Tips to Make Homemade Apple Pie

  • Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor.
  • Make sure to slice the apples evenly for even cooking.
  • Don’t skip the slits on the top crust. They allow steam to escape and keep the crust from becoming soggy.
  • Brush additional egg wash over the top crust for a nice golden color.

Variation

You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch. Another variation is to include dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a unique touch. Experimenting with spices such as ginger or cardamom can also enhance the flavor profile.

FAQs

Q: What type of apples are best for apple pie?
A: Good cooking apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn work well for apple pie.

Q: Can I make the crust ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the pie crust a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator.

Q: Can I use store-bought pie dough?
A: Certainly! Store-bought pie dough can save time and still produce a delicious pie.

Enjoy your homemade apple pie!

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