There is nothing quite as nostalgic as the scent of a fresh apple pie cooling on the windowsill. This version features a homemade buttery crust and a pre-simmered filling that ensures every bite is tender, spiced to perfection, and never watery.

Recipe Details

  • Yields: 8
  • Prep Time: 30 min
  • Cook Time: 45 min
  • Total Time: 1 hour 15 min

Ingredients

  • Apples
  • Lemon juice
  • Sugar
  • Cinnamon
  • Nutmeg
  • Cornstarch
  • Flour
  • Salt
  • Sugar (for crust)
  • Butter, cut into pieces
  • Ice water
  • Egg (optional, for egg wash)

Instructions

  1. Begin by peeling the apples and cutting them into strips approximately 1 to 2 inches long.
  2. Place the apple strips in a large bowl and toss with the lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Let the mixture rest for 15 minutes to allow the fruit to release its juices.
  3. Transfer the fruit and liquid to a saucepan. Simmer over medium-to-low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring the mixture regularly to reduce the liquid. Once thickened, remove from the heat.
  4. While the filling is resting or simmering, prepare the dough by adding the flour, salt, sugar, and butter pieces into a food processor.
  5. Pulse the processor for 5 to 10 seconds until the mixture looks like coarse sand. Slowly drizzle in the ice water until the dough begins to form into chunks.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
  7. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Roll each piece out with a rolling pin until they are wide enough to cover a 9-inch pie pan.
  8. Lay the first half of the dough into the bottom of the pie pan and trim away any extra overhanging dough with a knife.
  9. Pour the reduced apple filling into the pan and spread it out evenly.
  10. Place the second sheet of dough over the top. Fold the edges over and tuck them in to secure the filling.
  11. Use a fork or your fingers to crimp the edges, pressing the top and bottom crusts together firmly to ensure there are no air gaps.
  12. For a beautiful finish, you may choose to brush the top of the crust with an egg wash, which helps achieve a shiny, golden color.
  13. Cut a few small vents in the top crust with a knife to create a decorative look and allow steam to escape during baking.
  14. Bake the pie at 350°F for 45 minutes. It is finished when the apples are bubbling and the crust has reached a golden brown color to your liking.

Tips for Success

To ensure your crust has the right amount of moisture, try the pinch test: if the dough holds together when squeezed in your hand, it is ready to be rolled. When preparing the filling, the 15-minute reduction step is vital for a concentrated flavor and a perfect consistency that won't make your bottom crust soggy.

This classic dessert is best served warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for the ultimate community favorite.