Classic Apple Pie
This apple pie is the epitome of traditional dessert perfection. The flaky, buttery crust encases a luscious filling made from a mix of tart Granny Smith and sweet Honeycrisp apples, tossed with a blend of sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of lemon juice for brightness. The pie is assembled with a double crust, featuring a golden, egg-washed top layer adorned with a sprinkling of sugar for a tempting finish. Baked to a golden brown, the pie emerges from the oven with a fragrant aroma, ready to delight with its comforting warmth and timeless flavor. Each slice offers the perfect balance of sweet and spiced apple goodness, making it a quintessential and irresistible treat.
**Ingredients:**
*For the Pie Crust:*
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water
*For the Apple Filling:*
- 6 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works well)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
*For Assembly:*
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces (for dotting the filling)
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for sprinkling on top)
**Instructions:**
**Making the Pie Crust:**
1. In a food processor, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and pulse until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
**Preparing the Apple Filling:**
1. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice.
2. In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour.
3. Add the sugar mixture to the apples and toss until well coated.
**Assembling and Baking:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out one disk of the chilled pie dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Place the rolled-out dough into the pie dish.
3. Fill the pie crust with the prepared apple filling, dotting the top with small pieces of butter.
4. Roll out the second disk of pie dough and place it over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
5. Beat the egg and brush it over the top crust. Sprinkle granulated sugar for a golden finish.
6. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
7. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown, and the filling is bubbly.
8. Allow the pie to cool before slicing.
Enjoy this classic Apple Pie, perfect for any occasion or a comforting dessert!