There’s something truly magical about the aroma of a freshly baked apple pie wafting through the house. It’s a scent that transports many of us back to cherished family gatherings or cozy autumn afternoons spent indulging in sweet, spiced treats. Recently, I decided to try my hand at making an apple pie with a lattice crust, a classic dessert that holds a special place in the hearts of many. The result was nothing short of spectacular, earning rave reviews from my family, who couldn’t resist going back for seconds. The combination of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples encased in a flaky, buttery crust proved to be irresistible. With each slice topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this pie became the star of our family dinner, evoking smiles and satisfied sighs all around.
Ingredients
Creating the perfect apple pie with a lattice crust begins with gathering the right ingredients. For the crust, you’ll need 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 cup of unsalted butter (chilled and cut into cubes), and 6 to 8 tablespoons of ice water. These ingredients will help you achieve a perfectly flaky crust, essential for any good pie.
For the filling, you’ll require 6 to 8 medium-sized apples, preferably a mix of tart and sweet varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. You’ll also need ¾ cup of granulated sugar, ¼ cup of light brown sugar, 1 ½ teaspoons of ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon of salt, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour to create a luscious apple filling.
Instructions
To make the crust, start by combining the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Incorporate the butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least an hour.
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the crust chills, peel, core, and slice the apples. In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, lemon juice, and flour until well coated. Roll out one dough disc on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Gently transfer the dough to the pan and trim any excess.
Pour the apple mixture into the crust-lined pan, mounding slightly in the center. Roll out the second dough disc and cut into strips to create a lattice pattern. Weave the strips over the filling, then trim and crimp the edges to seal. Brush the lattice with an egg wash for a golden finish. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35-45 minutes until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly. Allow the pie to cool for at least two hours before serving to allow the filling to set.
Nutrition Facts
This apple pie recipe yields approximately 8 servings, making it perfect for a family gathering or a special occasion. Each serving contains about 400 calories, though this can vary depending on the size of the slice and any additional toppings, such as ice cream or whipped cream. While this dessert is indulgent, it’s a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in moderation.
Preparation Time
Preparing an apple pie with a lattice crust is a labor of love, but the results are well worth the effort. The total preparation time, including making the dough, preparing the filling, and assembling the pie, is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Baking time adds another hour, and it’s crucial to allow at least 2 hours for the pie to cool and set before serving. Therefore, it’s a good idea to plan ahead, especially if you’re making this pie for a special occasion or holiday meal.
How to Serve
- With Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that enhances the warm spices of the pie with creamy, cool contrast.
- With Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy texture and complements the pie’s sweetness.
- Sprinkle of Cinnamon Sugar: For a little extra sweetness and spice, sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar over the top just before serving.
- Drizzle of Caramel Sauce: For an added layer of indulgence, drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice.
- Pair with Coffee or Tea: A hot cup of coffee or a spiced tea makes for a perfect partner to a slice of apple pie.
Additional Tips
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor and texture, mix tart and sweet apple varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
- Chill the Dough: Allow the dough to chill for at least an hour to relax the gluten and make it easier to roll out.
- Prevent Soggy Crust: To avoid a soggy bottom crust, sprinkle a layer of breadcrumbs or crushed graham crackers before adding the filling.
- Slice Apples Evenly: Ensure even baking by slicing apples uniformly, about ¼ inch thick.
- Let the Pie Cool: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to ensure the filling sets properly and slices hold their shape.
FAQ Section
Q: Can I use pre-made pie crust?
A: Absolutely! While homemade crust adds a personal touch, using a store-bought crust can save time and still yield a delicious pie.
Q: What type of apples are best for pie?
A: A combination of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, works well for balance in flavor and texture.
Q: How do I store leftover pie?
A: Store leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered loosely with foil or plastic wrap, for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Q: Can I make the pie ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the pie a day in advance. Simply bake, cool, and store it at room temperature. Reheat slices in the oven before serving.
Q: How do I prevent the crust from burning?
A: To prevent over-browning, cover the edges of the crust with foil or a pie shield once they reach the desired color.