The Ultimate American Apple Pie Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Apple Pie is a classic American dessert known for its buttery, flaky crust and sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple filling. This homemade apple pie recipe will guide you through creating the perfect dessert that’s both delicious and visually stunning.
Ingredients for American Apple Pie
To make the best apple pie, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 6-8 tbsp ice water
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tbsp milk
Instructions to Make American Apple Pie
Follow these steps to prepare a traditional American apple pie:
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
- Add cold butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
- In a large bowl, combine apple slices, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract.
- Mix well and let sit for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out one disc of pie dough on a floured surface and place it into a 9-inch pie pan.
- Pour the apple filling into the crust and dot with butter pieces.
- Roll out the second disc of pie dough and place it over the filling, sealing the edges by crimping with a fork or fingers.
- Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Brush the top with the egg wash for a golden finish.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- If the edges start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil.
- Allow the apple pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing.