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The timeless allure of homemade apple pie lies not only in its comforting flavor but also in its ability to evoke cherished memories and traditions. Few desserts can conjure feelings of nostalgia quite like a slice of freshly baked apple pie, warm from the oven, its golden crust flaking delicately at the touch of a fork. This article will guide you through the process of creating the best apple pie, complete with a flaky, buttery crust and a deliciously spiced apple filling. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will help you achieve a pie that is sure to impress family and friends alike.

The Best Apple Pie – A Classic Dessert!

Discover the secrets to making the best apple pie with this delightful guide! From a perfectly flaky crust to a warm, spiced apple filling, your homemade pie will impress everyone. Learn about the historical significance of this beloved dessert, the ideal apple varieties to use, and get step-by-step instructions for crafting each component. Create cherished memories in your kitchen as you bake a timeless classic that embodies comfort and home.
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Ingredients
  

For the Pie Crust:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp salt

1 tsp sugar

1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced

6 to 8 tbsp ice water

For the Apple Filling:

6 to 8 medium apples (such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced

¾ cup granulated sugar

¼ cup brown sugar

2 tsp cinnamon

¼ tsp nutmeg

2 tbsp lemon juice

2 tbsp cornstarch

1 tbsp unsalted butter, to dot

For Assembly:

1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)

1 tbsp milk (for egg wash)

Extra sugar for sprinkling on top

Instructions
 

Prepare the Pie Crust:

    - In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the diced butter and, using a pastry cutter or your fingers, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

      - Stir in the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape into disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

        Make the Apple Filling:

          - In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Toss until the apples are well coated. Let this mixture sit for about 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the juices to release.

            Roll Out the Dough:

              - Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

                - On a floured surface, roll out one disk of dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully place it in a 9-inch pie pan, pressing gently to fit. Trim excess dough hanging over the edges.

                  Fill the Pie:

                    - Pour the apple filling into the prepared crust, making sure to arrange the apples evenly. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.

                      Top Crust:

                        - Roll out the second disk of dough, and place it over the apple filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

                          Apply Egg Wash:

                            - Combine the beaten egg and milk in a small bowl. Brush the mixture over the crust to give it a golden color. Sprinkle some extra sugar on top for added sweetness and texture.

                              Bake the Pie:

                                - Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue to bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil.

                                  Cool and Serve:

                                    - Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing, as this helps the filling set. Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired!

                                      Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 1 hour | 2 hours | 8 servings