Apple pie is a classic dessert that never goes out of style. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering, celebrating a holiday, or simply craving a sweet treat, nothing beats a delicious, homemade apple pie. This recipe is perfect for those who want a **mouth-watering apple pie** but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. In just 5 minutes of prep time, you can create an apple pie that melts in your mouth and impresses everyone who tries it. Let’s dive into this **easy apple pie recipe** and discover the secrets to a perfect pie every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we start, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for this quick apple pie recipe:
- 6 to 8 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal)
- 1 pre-made pie crust (available at most grocery stores)
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Optional: 1 tablespoon of coarse sugar for sprinkling on top
Preparing the Apples
The first step in making this easy apple pie is preparing the apples. Here’s how you do it:
1. Peel and Core the Apples: Start by peeling and coring the apples. Make sure to remove all the seeds and the tough core.
2. Slice the Apples: Cut the apples into thin slices, about 1/4 inch thick. Uniform slices ensure even baking.
3. Toss with Lemon Juice: Place the apple slices in a large mixing bowl and toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning and add a hint of tanginess.
Making the Apple Filling
Now that the apples are ready, it’s time to make the filling. This part is crucial for the pie’s flavor and texture.
1. Combine Sugars and Spices: In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt.
2. Coat the Apples: Pour the sugar and spice mixture over the apple slices and toss until the apples are evenly coated. This mixture will create a delicious, syrupy filling as it bakes.
Assembling the Pie
With the apples and filling ready, let’s move on to assembling the pie. This is where it all comes together.
1. Prepare the Pie Crust: Roll out the pre-made pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.
2. Add the Apple Filling: Pour the apple mixture into the pie crust, making sure to spread it out evenly. Dot the filling with small pieces of unsalted butter.
3. Top with the Second Crust: If you have a double crust, roll out the second crust and place it over the apples. Trim, fold, and crimp the edges to seal. Alternatively, you can create a lattice top for a beautiful presentation.
4. Apply the Egg Wash: Brush the top crust with the beaten egg to give it a golden, shiny finish. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
Now that your pie is assembled, it’s time to bake it to perfection.
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
3. Cool the Pie: Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before serving. This cooling time helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.
Tips for the Perfect Apple Pie
Creating a perfect apple pie isn’t just about following the recipe; there are a few tips and tricks that can elevate your pie to the next level.
Choose the Right Apples
Using the right type of apples is crucial. **Granny Smith apples** are tart and hold their shape well during baking, while **Honeycrisp apples** are sweet and juicy. Mixing both types can give your pie a balanced flavor and texture.
Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice
Lemon juice not only prevents the apples from browning but also adds a subtle brightness to the filling that enhances the overall flavor of the pie.
Use a Pie Shield
If the edges of your pie crust start to brown too quickly, cover them with a pie shield or aluminum foil to prevent burning while the rest of the pie continues to bake.
Let the Pie Cool
Allowing the pie to cool completely before slicing ensures that the filling sets properly. This step might require patience, but it makes a big difference in the final presentation and taste.
Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered this **easy apple pie recipe**, you might want to experiment with some variations to keep things interesting.
Dutch Apple Pie
A Dutch apple pie features a crumbly streusel topping instead of a traditional pie crust on top. To make the streusel, combine flour, brown sugar, and butter until crumbly, and sprinkle it over the apples before baking.
Caramel Apple Pie
For an extra indulgent twist, drizzle caramel sauce over the apple filling before adding the top crust. The caramel adds a rich, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the apples.
Apple Cranberry Pie
Add a handful of fresh or dried cranberries to the apple filling for a tart and tangy contrast. This variation is especially popular during the holiday season.
Serving Suggestions
An apple pie is delicious on its own, but serving it with a few accompaniments can make it even more enjoyable.
Vanilla Ice Cream
A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top of a warm slice of apple pie is a classic combination that never fails. The creamy, cold ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, spiced apples.
Whipped Cream
Homemade whipped cream is a light and airy topping that complements the richness of the pie without overpowering it. Add a dollop on top of each slice just before serving.
Cheddar Cheese
For a unique twist, serve your apple pie with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese. The salty, savory cheese enhances the sweetness of the apples and creates a delightful flavor contrast.
Storing and Reheating Apple Pie
If you have leftovers or want to make your pie in advance, proper storage and reheating are key to maintaining its deliciousness.
Storing
- Room Temperature: An apple pie can be stored at room temperature for up to two days. Simply cover it loosely with foil or plastic wrap.
- Refrigerator: To extend its shelf life, store the pie in the refrigerator for up to four days. Cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container.
Reheating
- Oven: To reheat a whole pie, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. For individual slices, bake for about 5 minutes.
- Microwave: For a quicker option, microwave individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for 30-60 seconds. Keep in mind that the crust may not remain as crisp as when reheated in the oven.
Conclusion
Making an apple pie that melts in your mouth doesn’t have to be a time-consuming task. With just 5 minutes of prep work, you can create a delicious, homemade pie that will impress your family and friends. By using the right ingredients, following the steps carefully, and incorporating a few expert tips, you can enjoy a perfect apple pie every time. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the suggested variations, this apple pie is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Happy baking!