How to Make the Perfect Apple Pie with a Buttery Flaky Crust

How to Make the Perfect Apple Pie with a Buttery Flaky Crust

Apple pie is a classic dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any table. The key to a perfect apple pie lies in the balance between a rich, buttery, flaky crust and a perfectly spiced apple filling. This recipe will guide you through each step to create the ultimate homemade apple pie.

Ingredients

For the Buttery Flaky Crust:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• 6-8 tablespoons ice water

For the Apple Filling:

• 6-7 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

For Assembly:

• 1 egg yolk
• 1 tablespoon milk
• Coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling)

Step 1: Make the Buttery Flaky Pie Crust

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your hands to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The butter pieces should be about pea-sized.
3. Add Ice Water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough begins to hold together. Be careful not to overwork it.
4. Form and Chill: Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape them into disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. This helps the gluten relax and makes rolling easier.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. Peel and Slice the Apples: Cut the apples into thin, even slices to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Toss with Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine apple slices, sugars, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla. Let the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the apples to release their juices.
3. Drain Excess Liquid: Strain any excess liquid to prevent a soggy crust.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

1. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disk to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Carefully place the dough into the pan, trimming any excess overhang.
2. Fill the Pie: Pour the apple filling into the crust, spreading it evenly. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.
3. Top the Pie: Roll out the second dough disk and place it over the apples. You can leave it whole (with vent slits) or create a lattice top by cutting strips and weaving them over the filling.
4. Seal the Edges: Crimp the edges of the pie crust together using your fingers or a fork.
5. Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk. Brush this mixture over the top crust to create a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.

Step 4: Bake the Pie

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bake at High Heat: Place the pie on the middle rack and bake for 20 minutes.
3. Lower the Temperature: Reduce the heat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for another 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling.
4. Cool Before Serving: Let the pie cool for at least 3-4 hours to allow the filling to set.

Tips for the Perfect Apple Pie

• Use a mix of apples for a balance of tartness and sweetness.
• Keep your butter and water cold to ensure a flaky crust.
• Pre-cook the apples slightly for a firmer filling with less excess moisture.
• Let the pie cool completely before slicing to prevent a runny filling.

Enjoy your homemade apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate treat!