Get ready to transform your kitchen into a bakery of dreams with this mouthwatering De Luxe Apple Pie that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! Imagine a golden, flaky crust embracing perfectly spiced, tender apple slices that melt in your mouth - this isn't just a pie, it's a culinary masterpiece that brings the warmth of homemade comfort right to your dinner table. Whether you're a baking novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe will make you feel like a professional pastry chef with just a few simple steps.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 pounds apples, peeled and sliced
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 pie crust (top and bottom)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), ensuring the rack is positioned in the center of the oven.
- Prepare the apples by peeling, coring, and slicing them into uniform 1/4-inch thick pieces. Place sliced apples in a large mixing bowl.
- Sprinkle lemon juice over the apple slices and toss gently to prevent browning and distribute the juice evenly.
- In a separate small bowl, combine granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and all-purpose flour. Mix thoroughly to create the spice mixture.
- Pour the spice mixture over the apple slices and gently fold to coat all apple pieces completely.
- Roll out the bottom pie crust and carefully place it into a 9-inch pie dish, trimming excess dough around the edges.
- Transfer the spiced apple mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading evenly and mounding slightly in the center.
- Dot the top of the apple filling with small pieces of butter, distributing them across the surface.
- Roll out the top pie crust and place it over the filled pie. Trim excess dough and crimp the edges to seal, creating a decorative border.
- Cut 4-5 small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Optional: Brush the top crust with an egg wash (1 beaten egg + 1 tablespoon water) for a golden, glossy finish.
- Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any potential drips and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Remove from oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set properly.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a complex, balanced flavor profile.
- Keep Apple Slices Uniform: Slice apples to the same 1/4-inch thickness to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture.
- Prevent Soggy Bottom: Sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs or ground nuts on the bottom crust before adding filling to absorb excess moisture.
- Crust Protection: If the edges start browning too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
- Let it Rest: Always allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours to let the filling set, which prevents a runny texture when slicing.
- Serve with Flair: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate this pie from delicious to absolutely extraordinary!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 10mg
