Step-by-step instructions
Prepare Your Apples: Begin by peeling, coring, and slicing your apples into thin, even pieces—about ¼ inch thick works best for even cooking.
Create the Filling: In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar and cinnamon until all the apple slices are well coated.
Prepare the Pie Dish: Roll out the bottom pie crust and gently line a 9-inch pie dish with it, letting the edges hang over for now.
Fill with Love: Spoon the apple mixture into the prepared crust, making sure to mound it slightly in the center. Dot the top with butter for added richness.
Top and Seal: Carefully place the second crust over the apple filling. Trim the edge as needed and crimp the edges together to seal. Don’t forget to cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape!
Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the crust is beautifully golden brown.
Cool and Serve: Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This allows the filling to set properly.
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving apple pie is an art in itself. Serve warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. For an elevated touch, consider drizzling caramel sauce over each slice before serving.
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your leftover apple pie fresh, cover it loosely with aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to save it longer, it can be refrigerated for up to a week, or frozen for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through.
Helpful cooking tips
For the best flavor, let your pie filling sit for about 10 minutes after mixing, allowing the sugar to draw out the juices from the apples. This step enhances the overall flavor and has a delightful effect on the filling’s texture. Remember to keep your pie crust cold until you’re ready to use it—this helps create a flaky, tender crust!
Creative twists
Want to mix things up? Try adding a tablespoon of lemon juice to your apple mixture for a tangy kick or substituting brown sugar for granulated sugar for a deeper flavor. You can also experiment with spices like nutmeg or cloves for a unique twist on this classic dish.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare this pie?
Preparation takes about 20-30 minutes, followed by a baking time of 50-60 minutes. So, expect a total time of around 1.5 to 2 hours.
Can I use frozen apples?
While you can use frozen apples, it’s best to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in your pie. Fresh apples give the best texture and flavor.
Is it okay to make the pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just remember to extend the baking time a little if baking directly from the fridge.
Now you’re all set to make the Ultimate Classic Apple Pie! Happy baking!
