If You Wish To Bake An Apple Pie From Scratch
Introduction
Apple pie is a classic dessert loved by many. It's perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a holiday gathering. If you're looking to impress your guests with a homemade apple pie, you've come to the right place. In this article, we'll guide you through the process of baking an apple pie from scratch.
Ingredients
The first step in baking an apple pie is gathering all the necessary ingredients. Here's what you'll need:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
- ¼ to ½ cup ice water
- 8 cups thinly sliced, peeled and cored apples (about 8 medium apples)
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
Instructions
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, it's time to start baking.
Step 1: Make the Pie Crust
In a large bowl, mix together flour, salt, and sugar. Add the chilled butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water and stir until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two equal parts, form into disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least an hour.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Preheat the oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, mix together sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg until the apples are coated evenly.
Step 3: Roll out the Dough
Take one of the dough disks out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes. On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie dish and trim the edges.
Step 4: Add the Apple Filling
Pour the apple mixture into the pie crust. Dot the top with small pieces of butter.
Step 5: Add the Top Crust
Roll out the second dough disk into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Place it on top of the apple filling, and trim the edges. Use a knife to cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Step 6: Bake the Pie
Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Allow the pie to cool for at least 20 minutes before serving.
Tips and Tricks
Here are a few tips to make sure your apple pie turns out perfect:
- Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor.
- Don't overwork the dough, or it will become tough.
- Chill the dough before rolling it out for a flakier crust.
- Brush the top crust with egg wash for a shiny finish.
Conclusion
Baking an apple pie from scratch may seem daunting, but with the right ingredients and instructions, it's a simple process. Follow these steps, and you'll have a delicious, homemade apple pie that will impress your friends and family. Happy baking!
