Classic American Apple Pie

A quintessential American dessert, this Classic Apple Pie features a perfectly flaky crust encasing tender, spiced apples. The technique of briefly soaking the apples in hot water or cider ensures a luscious filling that retains its shape while baking. A light dusting of sugar and an egg wash create a beautifully golden, crisp crust. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this pie embodies the comforting flavors of home baking. Ideal for holidays, family gatherings, or simply as a treat to brighten any day, this recipe guarantees a pie that is both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious.

Ingredients (Makes 8 servings)

1.8 to 2 kg (4 to 4½ lbs) Golden Delicious, Braeburn, or other baking apples, peeled, cored, and sliced into 6 mm (¼-inch) slices
2.8 L (3 quarts) boiling water or apple cider
150 g (10 tbsp) granulated sugar, plus 15 g (1 tbsp) for sprinkling over crust
¼ tsp ground cinnamon, or more to taste
¼ tsp salt
15 to 30 g (2 to 4 tbsp) cornstarch
1 recipe Easy Pie Dough
1 egg white, lightly beaten

Nutrition Information (per 100g)

Calories: 220
Fat: 6
Protein: 2
Carbohydrates: 40
Fiber: 3

Directions

Preparing the Apple Filling

1. Adjust oven rack to lower-middle position and place a heavy rimmed baking sheet on it. Preheat the oven to 220°C (425°F).
2. Place apple slices in a large bowl or pot. Pour boiling water or cider over them, cover, and let sit at room temperature for 10 minutes.
3. Drain apples thoroughly and let them sit in a colander, tossing occasionally until completely dry, about 10 minutes.
4. Transfer apples to a large bowl and toss with 150 g (10 tbsp) sugar, cinnamon, salt, and cornstarch until evenly coated. Set aside.

Assembling the Pie

5. Roll one disk of pie dough into a 30 cm (12-inch) circle. Transfer to a 23 cm (9-inch) pie plate.
6. Add the apple filling, discarding any excess juices in the bowl.
7. Roll the remaining disk of pie dough into a 30 cm (12-inch) circle and place it over the filling.
8. Trim the edges of both crusts to a 1.3 cm (½-inch) overhang. Fold and tuck the edges under, sealing them between the bottom crust and the pie plate.
9. Crimp the edges using your fingers. Cut five small slits in the top crust for ventilation.

Baking the Pie

10. Brush the top crust evenly with lightly beaten egg white using a pastry brush.
11. Sprinkle the surface with 15 g (1 tbsp) granulated sugar.
12. Place the pie on the preheated baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes until light golden brown.
13. Reduce oven temperature to 190°C (375°F) and continue baking for another 25 minutes until deep golden brown.

Cooling and Serving

14. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before serving.

Cookix's Secrets

Alternative Cooking Methods

Try baking the pie in a cast-iron skillet for a rustic presentation.

Alternative Proteins

For a savory twist, incorporate sharp cheddar cheese into the crust.

Apple Selection

Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a more complex flavor.

Bold Flavor Enhancements

Mix in a splash of bourbon or rum with the apple filling for a deeper, richer flavor.

Healthier Version

Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or honey for a more natural sweetness.

Pie Crust Tips

For an extra flaky crust, keep all ingredients cold and avoid overworking the dough.

Preventing a Soggy Bottom

Preheating the baking sheet helps crisp the bottom crust and prevents sogginess.

Seasonal Tweaks

Add a handful of fresh cranberries to the filling for a festive holiday twist.

Ask Cookix, your sous-chef