A cozy kitchen, the smell of apples and cinnamon wafting through the air, and in your hand, a mug of hot cider. Apple pie pairs wonderfully with warm drinks, especially during the colder months. Think hot chocolate, mulled wine, or a simple cup of black coffee. The combination of flavors will make you feel like you’re wrapped in a warm blanket.
There’s something magical about the juxtaposition of warm apple pie and cold vanilla ice cream. Trust me, a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over a slice of pie is pure heaven. The creaminess perfectly complements the apple filling and the flaky crust.
Apple pie isn’t just for dessert. Pairing it with savory items like a sharp cheddar cheese or even a salty slice of ham can make for an unexpected but delightful surprise. The contrast works really well to balance the sweetness of the pie.
There’s something almost heroic about an old-fashioned apple pie. It carries a legacy, each bite telling a story of tradition, family gatherings, and the comfort of home. My Grandma’s apple pie is not just a recipe; it’s a family heirloom. When I bake it, I’m not just making dessert, I’m carrying forward a piece of her.
What is Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Apple Pie?
Grandma’s old-fashioned apple pie is the kind of dessert that brings people together. It’s a classic American dessert made from scratch, with a flaky double-crust pie dough, tart Granny Smith apples, and a blend of spices that sing harmony. This pie isn’t about quick fixes or shortcuts—it’s about taking the time to create something wonderful.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Flavor: The tangy apples, combined with the sweet and spiced filling, create a balanced, heavenly flavor.
Texture: The tender, yet firm apples meld perfectly with the buttery, flaky crust.
Tradition: This recipe has been handed down through generations, embodying history and love in each bite.
Versatility: Whether it’s a holiday dinner or a casual family gathering, this pie fits in beautifully.
Nostalgia: The process of making this pie can fill your kitchen with memories as fragrant as the pie itself.
The Ingredients You Will Need to Make Grandma’s Old-Fashioned Apple Pie
Here’s a list of simple ingredients you likely have in your pantry:
- 8 small Granny Smith apples — peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 (9-inch) double-crust pie dough — thawed
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- ¼ cup filtered water
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Directions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven ensures that the crust will be crispy and golden.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and slice the apples. Each slice should be about ¼ inch thick. Place them in a large bowl and set them aside.
Step 3: Make the Filling
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the flour and whisk for about a minute to make a paste. Then, mix in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and filtered water. Bring the mixture to a boil, and then reduce the heat, letting it simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Spices
Remove the mixture from the heat and stir in the ground cinnamon and vanilla extract. The aroma at this stage is simply intoxicating.
Step 5: Combine the Filling and Apples
Pour the mixture over the sliced apples and toss to coat evenly. This ensures that every apple slice is equally delicious.
Step 6: Assemble the Pie
Roll out one half of the pie dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any excess dough around the edges. Fill the pie crust with the apple mixture, mounding it slightly in the center.
Step 7: Add the Top Crust
Roll out the second half of the dough and place it over the apples. Trim the excess dough and crimp the edges to seal. Create a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Step 8: Bake the Pie
Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Remember, your whole house will smell like a slice of heaven.
Notes
- Apples: For a more complex flavor, mix Granny Smith apples with a few sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala.
- Crust: Chill the pie dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out to prevent it from becoming too soft.
- Spices: Feel free to experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or allspice.
- Sweetness: Adjust the quantity of sugar according to your taste preference.
- Butter Brush: Brushing the top crust with an egg wash or melted butter can give your pie a beautiful golden finish.
Storage Tips
Apple pie can last for about 2-3 days at room temperature if covered properly. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It can last up to 5 days refrigerated. To reheat, simply warm it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition Information
Serving Suggestions
- A la mode: Serve with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream can elevate your pie to another level.
- Cheddar Cheese: For a savory twist, a thin slice of sharp cheddar pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of the pie.
- Drizzled Caramel: A drizzle of salted caramel sauce can make your pie even more decadent.
- Spiced Nuts: Garnish with toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use?
- Apples: Swap Granny Smith apples for other varieties like Honeycrisp or Pink Lady for a sweeter pie.
- Butter: Use margarine or coconut oil as a dairy-free alternative.
- Flour: Almond flour can be used to make a gluten-free version.
- Sugars: Coconut sugar or maple syrup can be used instead of brown and granulated sugar.
- Pie Crust: A pre-made gluten-free pie crust can be used for those with dietary restrictions.
Equipment
- oven
- large bowl
- saucepan
- whisk
Ingredients
- 8 small Granny Smith apples or as required
- 1 9-inch double-crust pie dough, thawed
- ½ cup of unsalted butter
- ¼ cup of filtered water
- ½ cup of granulated sugar
- ½ cup of firmly packed brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). A hot oven ensures that the crust will be crispy and golden.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
- Peel, core, and slice the apples. Each slice should be about ¼ inch thick. Place them in a large bowl and set them aside.
Step 3: Make the Filling
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Add the flour and whisk for about a minute to make a paste. Then, mix in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and filtered water. Bring the mixture to a boil, and then reduce the heat, letting it simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Spices
- Remove the mixture from the heat and stir in the ground cinnamon and vanilla extract. The aroma at this stage is simply intoxicating.
Step 5: Combine the Filling and Apples
- Pour the mixture over the sliced apples and toss to coat evenly. This ensures that every apple slice is equally delicious.
Step 6: Assemble the Pie
- Roll out one half of the pie dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any excess dough around the edges. Fill the pie crust with the apple mixture, mounding it slightly in the center.
Step 7: Add the Top Crust
- Roll out the second half of the dough and place it over the apples. Trim the excess dough and crimp the edges to seal. Create a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Step 8: Bake the Pie
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Remember, your whole house will smell like a slice of heaven.
Notes
- Apples: For a more complex flavor, mix Granny Smith apples with a few sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala.
- Crust: Chill the pie dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out to prevent it from becoming too soft.
- Spices: Feel free to experiment with additional spices like nutmeg or allspice.
- Sweetness: Adjust the quantity of sugar according to your taste preference.
- Butter Brush: Brushing the top crust with an egg wash or melted butter can give your pie a beautiful golden finish.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use other types of apples?
Absolutely! Feel free to mix varieties. Just remember, some apples are sweeter, so you might want to adjust the sugar.
Q2: Can I freeze the pie dough?
Yes. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag. It can last up to 3 months.
Q3: How can I tell if the pie is done?
The crust should be golden brown, and the filling should be bubbling through the slits in the crust.
Q4: Can I make the pie in advance?
Definitely! You can prepare it a day before and store it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving for the best result.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat the pie?
To maintain its crispness, reheat the pie in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes.
Q6: Can I add other fruits?
Sure thing! Blueberries, raspberries, or even pears can add an interesting twist. Just balance the sweetness accordingly.
Conclusion
Making Grandma’s old-fashioned apple pie is more than just baking; it’s creating memories. The aroma, the taste, and the smiles it brings make every step worth it. So grab your apron and let the spirit of Grandma guide you through this timeless tradition. Bon appétit!