Apple Pie - Fraîche Living
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of homemade apple pie with a twist from Fraîche Living.
This apple pie is a family favorite, blending sweet and tart apples with a perfectly flaky crust.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly spiced apple filling bursting with flavor
- Flaky, buttery crust that melts in your mouth
- A classic dessert that brings everyone together
The Magic of Apple Varieties
Choosing the right apples is crucial for a delicious apple pie. Granny Smith apples are known for their tartness, which balances well with the sweetness of sugar. Honeycrisp apples, on the other hand, add a hint of sweetness and a delightful crunch. By combining these two varieties, you create a filling that is both flavorful and texturally interesting. Experimenting with different types of apples can lead to unique flavor profiles, making your pie even more special.
For the best results, aim for a mix of tart and sweet apples. This combination not only enhances the overall taste but also helps to balance the flavors as the pie bakes. If you have access to local orchards, consider using seasonal apples; they often have superior flavor and freshness compared to store-bought options.
Mastering the Perfect Pie Crust
A flaky and buttery pie crust is the foundation of a great apple pie. The key to achieving this texture lies in keeping the butter cold and not overworking the dough. When cutting in the butter, aim for pea-sized pieces. This ensures that the fat creates layers during baking, resulting in a tender crust. Remember to chill your dough before rolling it out; this helps to keep the butter solid, which is essential for that flaky texture.
Using a mixture of all-purpose flour and a touch of sugar in your crust can also enhance both flavor and texture. Sugar adds a hint of sweetness, which complements the apple filling perfectly. Additionally, brushing the top crust with an egg wash before baking gives it a beautiful golden color that is visually appealing.
Serving Suggestions
Apple pie is a classic dessert that shines on its own, but you can elevate the experience by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creaminess of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, spiced apples. Alternatively, a dollop of whipped cream can add a light and airy touch to each slice.
For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, consider sprinkling some toasted nuts on top or serving the pie with a side of caramel sauce. These additions can enhance the flavors and provide a delightful texture contrast. Whether you enjoy it warm or at room temperature, apple pie is a comforting treat that can be enjoyed any time of the year.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water
Apple Filling
- 6 cups sliced apples (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter, to dot
Mix all ingredients thoroughly before assembling the pie.
Instructions
Prepare the Pie Crust
In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough forms a ball.
Make the Apple Filling
In another bowl, toss sliced apples with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one dough disc on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie plate. Place the crust in the pie plate, fill with the apple mixture, and dot with butter.
Bake the Pie
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before serving to let the filling set. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Serve with vanilla ice cream for an extra special treat.
Storage Tips
To keep your apple pie fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need to store it longer, consider refrigerating it, where it can last up to a week. Just be sure to cover it to prevent it from drying out. For longer storage, apple pie can be frozen for up to three months. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer.
When you're ready to enjoy a frozen pie, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. You can then reheat it in the oven for a few minutes to restore its flaky crust. This way, you can enjoy the delightful taste of homemade apple pie whenever the craving strikes!
Variations to Try
While the classic apple pie is beloved, there are numerous variations you can try to keep things exciting. Consider adding cranberries or raisins to the apple filling for a burst of flavor and texture. You might also experiment with spices like ginger or cardamom for a unique twist on traditional cinnamon and nutmeg.
For a fun and interactive dessert, try making individual apple hand pies. This handheld version allows for a delightful presentation and makes for a perfect treat for gatherings or picnics. Simply use the same crust and filling, but cut out smaller circles of dough to create personal-sized pies.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen apples?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but be sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before using.
→ How can I prevent the crust from burning?
Cover the edges of the pie with aluminum foil if they brown too quickly.
→ Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the crust and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ What type of apples are best for pie?
A mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, works best for a balanced flavor.
Apple Pie - Fraîche Living
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of homemade apple pie with a twist from Fraîche Living.
Created by: Eden Clarke
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
Pie Crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water
Apple Filling
- 6 cups sliced apples (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter, to dot
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough forms a ball. Divide in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
In another bowl, toss sliced apples with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one dough disc on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie plate. Place the crust in the pie plate, fill with the apple mixture, and dot with butter. Roll out the second dough disc and cover the pie. Seal and cut slits in the top crust for steam to escape.
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 30 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before serving to let the filling set. Enjoy warm or at room temperature!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g