Homemade Apple Pie

This Homemade Apple Pie is a timeless dessert featuring a buttery, flaky crust and a perfectly spiced apple filling. The mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of lemon enhances the natural sweetness of the apples, creating a warm, aromatic treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy evenings, this classic apple pie recipe is simple to make yet rich in flavor, and pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate dessert experience.

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Ingredients

Crust

• 1 double pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 large egg, beaten

Filling

• 6 to 7 cups sliced apples (about 2 pounds; use a mix of sweet and tart apples if possible)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg

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Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare Apples

• Preheat the oven to 425°F. Peel, core, and slice the apples into ¼-inch thick slices. Toss with lemon juice to keep them fresh and enhance flavor.

1. Make the Filling

• In a large bowl, combine apple slices, sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir to coat the apples evenly, then set the mixture aside.

1. Prepare the Crust

• Roll out half of the pie crust dough into a 12-inch circle and carefully line a 9-inch pie plate with it. Add the apple mixture into the crust.

1. Top and Seal the Pie

• Roll out the remaining dough and place it over the apple filling. Pinch and trim the edges, crimping or pressing with a fork to create a decorative seal. Cut 4-5 slits in the top crust for steam to escape.

1. Brush and Bake

• Beat the egg with 2 teaspoons of water or milk, then brush over the top crust for a golden finish. Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 375°F and bake an additional 35-40 minutes, until golden and the apples are tender.

1. Cool and Serve

• Allow the pie to rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Serve with vanilla ice cream if desired for an extra special treat.

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Tips for the Perfect Apple Pie

• Apple Variety: Use a blend of firm, tart apples like Granny Smith with sweeter options like Honeycrisp or Gala for balanced flavor and texture.
• Prevent a Soggy Crust: Adding a light dusting of flour to the bottom crust before filling can help prevent sogginess.
• Crust Design: Get creative with lattice designs or use small cookie cutters on the top crust for a personalized touch.

Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this classic apple pie, and watch it quickly become a family favorite!