Granny Smiths Golden Crown the Ultimate Apple Pie
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook: Ready for the Best Apple Pie Ever?
Ever get that craving for something utterly comforting? Honestly, nothing beats a slice of warm, gooey apple pie. This recipe delivers the best apple pie , bursting with sweet and tart flavors.
Brief Overview: Granny Smith's Golden Crown: The Ultimate Apple Pie
This old fashioned apple pie recipe isn't just any pie. It's a classic American dessert perfect for any occasion. It's a medium difficulty bake, taking about 1 hour 35 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes to make, and serves 8 people.
Think of it as a delicious slice of Americana.
Main Benefits: A Hug in Every Bite!
This homemade apple pie offers a comforting dose of autumn flavors and satisfaction. It's perfect for a Thanksgiving pie recipes , Sunday afternoons, or any time you need a little pick-me-up.
What makes it special? The perfect balance of sweet and tart, encased in a flaky pie crust recipe .
Time to gather our ingredients, mate! We are going to use some Granny Smith apples because they bring that apple pie filling ideas . This recipe uses 6-7 medium Granny Smith apples(1.36kg).
Let's get started!
Ingredients & Equipment: Your Apple Pie Arsenal
Right, let's talk about what you'll need to whip up this best apple pie . It's easier than you think, promise! Don't stress, easy apple pie recipe is the goal.
Main Ingredients: The Heart of the Pie
For that glorious, flaky pie crust recipe , you'll need:
- 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour. Just the standard stuff is fine.
- 1 teaspoon (5g) salt. Yep, even sweet things need a pinch!
- 1 cup (226g) or 2 sticks unsalted butter, cut into cubes and seriously cold. Quality counts here. Buy butter that you would eat spread on a toast.
- 6-8 tablespoons (90-120ml) ice water. Add it slowly, you don't want the dough too wet.
And now, for the apple pie filling ideas that will make your taste buds sing:
- 6-7 medium Granny Smith apples (about 3 pounds/1.36kg). They're the best for a tart flavour, but you can throw in some other varieties too! The best Granny Smith apple pie recipe uses firm, unbruised apples that smell like apples.
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar. Adds sweetness, duh!
- ¼ cup (30g) packed light brown sugar. For a lovely caramel-y depth.
- 2 tablespoons (15g) all-purpose flour. Thickens the filling nicely.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Gives that warm, autumnal vibe.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg. Just a hint!
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) lemon juice. Brightens up the flavour.
- 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter, cut into small pieces. For extra richness.
Finally, the egg wash:
- 1 large egg.
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) milk or cream.
And if you're feeling fancy, 1 tablespoon (12.5g) granulated sugar for sprinkling on top.
Seasoning Notes: Spice It Up!
Cinnamon and nutmeg are your trusty pals for an old fashioned apple pie taste. Honestly, a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom also adds a lovely warming touch.
If you don't have lemon juice, a tiny splash of apple cider vinegar works in a pinch. Remember, autumn baking recipes need warm, inviting flavours.
Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple
You'll need:
- A 9 inch pie plate . Glass or ceramic is perfect.
- A food processor (optional, but makes the dough so much easier). If you don't have one, you can cut the butter into the flour with a pastry blender or your fingers.
- A rolling pin. For rolling out the dough, naturally.
- A pastry brush. For that gorgeous egg wash.
- A baking sheet. To catch any drips and keep your oven clean.
That's it! No need for fancy gadgets. Let's get baking classic American desserts with this homemade apple pie . Remember what my grandma always says, "The best pie is made with love!"
Let's Bake the Best Apple Pie , Shall We?
Honestly, who doesn't love a slice of warm homemade apple pie ? Especially with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
This recipe isn't just any Granny Smith apple pie recipe . It's the recipe. It's "Granny Smith's Golden Crown: The Ultimate Apple Pie".
Trust me, this classic American dessert will become a staple, especially during Autumn baking recipes and Thanksgiving pie recipes .
Prep Steps: Your Mise en Place Mission
Alright, let's get our ducks in a row. Essential mise en place means having everything measured and ready. Peel and slice those 6-7 Granny Smiths.
Cube your butter. You know the drill. To save time, prep the apple filling while the dough chills. Safety first! Watch those fingers when slicing apples.
step-by-step: From Dough to Delight
- Make the Dough: Combine flour and salt. Pulse in cold butter. Gradually add ice water. Chill for 30 minutes .
- Prepare the Filling: Mix apples, sugars, flour, spices, and lemon juice.
- Assemble the Pie: Roll out dough. Place in pie plate. Add filling and butter. Top with crust. Crimp the edges.
- Bake the Pie: Bake at 400° F ( 200° C) for 15 minutes . Reduce to 375° F ( 190° C) . Bake for 35- 45 minutes . The crust needs to be golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Let the pie cool completely before slicing. Patience is key!
Pro Tips for a Prize Winning Pie
Want to avoid a soggy bottom? Blind bake the crust for 15 minutes before adding the filling. Remember to vent the pie (slits or lattice) so it doesn't explode! A common mistake? Overmixing the dough.
This creates a tough crust. For an easy apple pie recipe , you can even make the dough a day ahead! Wrap it tightly and chill it.
A Slice of Apple Pie Story
Honestly, my first attempt at old fashioned apple pie was a DISASTER! The crust was tough as nails. The filling was a watery mess.
But, hey, practice makes perfect, right? Keep going and you will nail that flaky pie crust recipe . Now? It's my go-to, a true testament to how even the most complicated apple dessert recipes can be mastered with patience.
This recipe is more than just instructions. It is a hug, like Mary Berry said.
Recipe Notes for the Best Apple Pie
Alright, lovelies, before you dive headfirst into making what I promise is the best apple pie ever , let's chat about a few bits and bobs to ensure pie perfection.
Think of this as your friendly guide to avoiding any soggy bottom catastrophes. As they say, fail to prepare, prepare to fail!
Serving Suggestions: Because Presentation Matters
Honestly, even the best apple pie can be elevated with a little pizzazz. After all, we do eat with our eyes first, right? Plating is where you can really show off!
- Classic Cool: A simple slice on a pretty plate, maybe with a dollop of vanilla ice cream. It's the tried and-true method for a reason.
- A la Mode Magic: Warm that slice slightly in the microwave. It becomes all melty gooey. Then, top it with ice cream.
- Drink Up: Don’t forget the bevies. A cup of tea is so comforting, but a mug of hot mulled cider could add a really autumn touch!
Storage Tips: Keeping the Dream Alive
So, you've baked your magnificent pie. You've seen everyone having a classic American dessert experience. How do you keep the magic going?
- Refrigeration Reality: Pop any leftover pie in the fridge. If your kitchen is very warm, that's usually best.
- Freezing for Future You: Wrap the whole thing well. Then put it in the freezer. When you are ready, bake until heated all the way through.
- Reheating Rituals: Reheat slices individually in the microwave or oven. Don't overcook.
Variations: Let's Get Creative!
Fancy a bit of a twist on your Granny Smith apple pie recipe ? Let's do it!
- Dietary Doings: Use a gluten-free crust.
- Seasonal Swaps: Throw in some blackberries. It's so lovely, and it uses seasonal ingredients!
Nutrition Basics: The Good(ish) News
Ok, so it's pie. Not exactly health food, but let's be real. This homemade apple pie has some redeeming qualities.
- Simplified Scoop: It is sweet, but with 5g of fiber per slice.
- Health Highs: Granny Smiths are quite tart. Also, spices like cinnamon aren't unhealthy! It is about the enjoyment!
I always bake the best apple pie in the fall, I honestly think that if the best apple pie recipe doesn't exist, I should be the one who creates it.
Anyway, This easy apple pie recipe isn't just about baking; it's about making memories. So, go on, get your bake on, and enjoy every delicious moment! The apple pie filling ideas are totally up to you, love!
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I prevent my best apple pie from having a soggy bottom? It's the bain of my life!
Ah, the dreaded soggy bottom! To avoid this, you can blind bake the bottom crust for about 15 minutes before adding the filling like Prue Leith always advises. Also, ensure your filling isn't too wet by using the correct amount of flour to absorb excess juices and letting the pie cool completely before slicing so that the filling can set properly.
My apple pie crust always shrinks! What am I doing wrong?
Shrinking crust is a common woe! This usually happens when the gluten in the dough is overdeveloped or if the dough isn't chilled enough. Make sure to handle the dough gently and don't overmix it.
Crucially, always chill the dough for at least 30 minutes (or even longer!) before rolling and baking, and consider docking the crust (pricking it with a fork) before baking.
Can I use different types of apples for the best apple pie, or are Granny Smiths essential?
While Granny Smiths provide a lovely tartness that balances the sweetness, you absolutely can mix it up! A blend of apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, or Braeburn can add depth and complexity to your filling. Just be mindful of the overall sweetness; you might need to adjust the sugar accordingly.
After all, cooking is all about experimenting!
How long does the best apple pie last, and what's the best way to store it?
Your apple pie will be at its best for 2-3 days when stored properly. After baking, let it cool completely. Then, cover it loosely with foil or plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for a day or two. If you want to keep it longer, store it in the refrigerator, but be aware that the crust might soften a bit.
Is there a healthier way to make this apple pie without sacrificing flavor?
Absolutely! You can reduce the sugar content by using a natural sweetener like maple syrup or honey in smaller quantities. Opting for whole wheat flour (or a blend of whole wheat and all-purpose) in the crust can increase the fiber content.
Also, using less butter or a lighter butter alternative in the crust can reduce the fat content without drastically altering the taste. Portion control is key too, of course!
Can I freeze my apple pie for later?
Yes, you can freeze an unbaked or baked apple pie for later enjoyment. For an unbaked pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Bake directly from frozen, adding about 15-20 minutes to the baking time. For a baked pie, let it cool completely, wrap it well, and freeze.
Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Granny Smiths Golden Crown The Ultimate Apple Pi
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 425 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 20g |
| Fiber | 5g |
