How to Perfectly Bake a Classic Apple Pie

Crisp, flaky crust with sweet and tart apples – apple pie is one of the most beloved desserts in many parts of the world. A perfect apple pie combines flavors that are both familiar yet comforting.

The key ingredient here is, of course, apples. You can choose to use a variety of apple types such as Granny Smith for tartness or Gala for sweetness. The combination of these different varieties can create an exquisite balance in the end product. In this recipe, we will be using three cups each of Granny Smith and Gala apples.

Cooking Time: 1 hour

Servings: 8-10 people

Ingredients

• 3 cups peeled, cored, and chopped Granny Smith apples
• 3 cups peeled, cored, and chopped Gala apples
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted and cooled slightly
• Pie dough for 9-inch pie crust (can be purchased or homemade)

Steps to Make Apple Pie

To start off, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a baking sheet if you are using store-bought pie dough. If making your own, roll out the dough and place it into a 9-inch pie plate.

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Cook the apples in a large saucepan over medium heat for about five minutes until they start to soften. While the apples are cooking, mix together sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and lemon juice in a small bowl.
2. Once the apples have softened slightly, add the sugar mixture into the saucepan and stir well so that all pieces of apple get covered with this sweet-tart combination.
3. Allow it to simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the fruit becomes tender but still holds its shape. Stir occasionally during this time to ensure everything blends together smoothly.

Step 2: Assemble and Bake the Pie

3. Once your filling is ready, remove it from heat and stir in the melted butter until well incorporated. Pour the hot apple mixture into the prepared pie crust.
4. Roll out or cut your second piece of dough for a top crust if using purchased dough; otherwise, roll out your leftover bottom pie crust to form a top one. Trim excess pastry around edges by about 1/2 inch.
5. Cut several slits in the top pastry and place the assembled pie on the baking sheet lined with parchment paper or silicone mat if using pre-made crusts directly on it instead of transferring after assembly.

Step 3: Final Touches Before Baking

5. Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about one hour. The apple filling should be bubbling around the edges, and your crust should have turned golden brown.
6. To check doneness, insert a toothpick or knife tip near the center of the pie; if it comes out clean, then it's done! If not, return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes before checking again.

Step 4: Let It Cool

6. Allow your freshly baked apple pie to rest on a wire rack until completely cooled. This cooling process helps set the filling and ensures that you don’t burn yourself while slicing into it.

Your homemade apple pie is now ready to serve! Slice it up and enjoy it with ice cream, whipped cream, or even just plain as part of your meal. It makes a fantastic dessert option for any occasion – from casual gatherings at home to special events like family dinners, Thanksgiving celebrations, etc.