Apple pie is a classic American dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. With its flaky crust and sweet, tart apple filling, it's no wonder this treat is a staple at many family gatherings and holiday celebrations. In this article, we'll look at the history of apple pie, the different variations of the dish, and provide step-by-step instructions on how to make delicious apple pie at home.
The history of apple pie dates back centuries, and the first recipe for this dish is believed to have originated in England in the 14th century. Early versions of apple pie were very different from the pies we love today, as they often included a mixture of fruits, spices, and even meats. It wasn't until the 18th century that apple pie became a popular dish in America due to the abundance of apples grown in the New World.
There are many variations of apple pie: some recipes call for a double crust, while others may include a streusel topping or a lattice design on top. Some bakers even add raisins, nuts, or caramel sauce to apple pie to give it extra flavor. Regardless of the option, one thing is for sure: a good apple pie is always made with fresh, crisp apples and a perfectly flaky crust.
Now let's get to the fun part - making apple pie at home! Here's an easy recipe that will have your kitchen smelling like a cozy bakery in no time.
Ingredients:
- 6-7 cups peeled, cored and sliced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons all purpose flour.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 package refrigerated pie crust (or make your own)
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 beaten egg (for washing eggs)
- Extra sugar for sprinkling on top.
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, flour and lemon juice. Toss well to coat the apples evenly.
3. Roll out one pie crust and gently press it into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim any excess crust that extends beyond the edges.
4. Pour the apple filling onto the pie crust, spreading it evenly.
5. Sprinkle the top of the filling with pieces of butter.
6. Roll out the second pie crust and place it on top of the filling. You can leave it whole or create a lattice design. Trim excess crust and crimp edges to seal pie.
7. Brush the top crust with beaten egg and sprinkle sugar on top to sweeten the crust.
8. Using a sharp knife, make several small cuts in the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking.
9. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch drips and bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
10. Let the pie cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Now that you've mastered the art of apple pie, you can experiment with different options and ingredients to create your own unique twist on this classic dessert. Whether you prefer a traditional apple pie with a double crust or a modern version with streusel, the possibilities are endless for this delicious treat.
Apple pie is a beloved dessert that has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among families and friends. With its satisfying flavor and flaky crust, it's no surprise that this classic dish has remained a staple of American cuisine for centuries. So next time you're craving something sweet and nostalgic, make some homemade apple pie and savor every delicious bite.