Warm and Comforting Country Apple Pie Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the smell of a freshly baked apple pie wafting through the house. It’s a classic dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, from a family dinner to a holiday feast. And today, I’m going to share with you my recipe for a delicious and rustic country apple pie.

This recipe is perfect for those who love the traditional, old-fashioned apple pie flavor with a hint of warm spices. Made with tart granny smith apples coated in a warm spice mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar, this pie starts off crisp and tart and ends with a sweet and comforting finish.

One of the things I love about this recipe is that it’s so easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry, you can whip up a delicious apple pie that will impress your family and friends.

So, whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, I encourage you to give this recipe a try. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Are you looking for the perfect dessert to impress your guests? Look no further than this delicious Country Apple Pie recipe! This pie is the epitome of old fashioned apple pie goodness, with its sweet and tart filling and flaky, buttery crust.

One of the reasons why you’ll love this recipe is because it is made with fresh, juicy apples that are sliced and coated with warm spices, making every bite taste like a slice of fall. The combination of ground nutmeg and cinnamon adds a warm, cozy flavor to the pie, making it the perfect comfort food.

Another reason why you’ll love this recipe is because it is so versatile. You can use any type of apple you prefer, but we recommend using Granny Smith apples for their tartness and firm texture. The recipe also calls for unbleached all-purpose flour and salted butter, giving the crust a rich, savory flavor that complements the sweetness of the apples.

Additionally, this recipe is easy to follow and can be made by even the most novice of bakers. The pie starts with a double crust, which is made by combining flour, sugar, and salt with cold butter and heavy cream. The filling is made by peeling, coring and slicing the apples, and then coating them in a warm spice mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar.

Finally, you’ll love this recipe because it is a classic American dessert that has been loved for generations. It is the perfect dessert for holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas, and is sure to become a family favorite.

In conclusion, this Country Apple Pie recipe is the perfect dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth and impress your guests. With its warm spices, flaky crust, and juicy apples, it’s hard not to love this pie. So go ahead and give it a try – you won’t be disappointed!

Ingredient List

Let’s gather our ingredients!

For the pie crust:

• 2 1/2 cups unbleached all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp. salt
• 1 tsp. sugar
• 1 cup (2 sticks) salted butter, chilled and diced
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water
• 1 tbsp. heavy cream

For the apple filling:

• 8-9 cups sliced and peeled Granny Smith apples
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp. ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp. salt
• 1 tbsp. lemon juice

Note: You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your sweetness preference. I prefer my pie on the less sweet side so I use 1/2 cup of sugar. If you like your pie extra sweet, use 3/4 cup of sugar.

Choosing the apples

For the best results, I recommend using Granny Smith apples. They are tart and firm, which makes them perfect for baking. However, if you can’t find Granny Smith apples or if you prefer a sweeter pie, you can substitute with Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, or Braeburn apples.

Making the pie crust

The pie crust is a crucial component of a good apple pie. You can use a store-bought crust if you’re in a hurry, but I highly recommend making your own. It’s easy and the results are worth it.

To make the pie crust, mix the flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Add the diced butter and use a pastry cutter or your hands to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse sand. Gradually add the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disk, and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill in the fridge for at least 1 hour before rolling out.

Preparing the apple filling

To prepare the apple filling, combine the sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice in a large bowl. Make sure the apples are coated evenly.

Let’s bake!

Now that we have all our ingredients ready, it’s time to assemble the pie. Roll out one disk of the pie crust and place it into a 9-inch pie dish. Pour the apple filling into the crust, and dot with small pieces of butter. Roll out the second disk of pie crust and cut into strips to create a lattice pattern on top of the pie. Brush the top crust with heavy cream and sprinkle with sugar.

Bake the pie in a preheated 375°F oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving.

Let’s get creative!

You can also experiment with different variations of this recipe. For example, you can add a streusel topping by mixing 1 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, and 1/2 cup of cold butter until crumbly. Sprinkle the mixture over the apples before baking. Or you can make a

The Recipe How-To

Making the Pie Crust

The first step in making a delicious Country Apple Pie is to prepare the pie crust. To make the crust, you’ll need 2 1/2 cups of unbleached all-purpose flour, 1 tsp of salt, 1 tbsp of sugar, and 1 cup of cold salted butter. Cut the butter into small pieces and add it to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix the ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse sand. Add 4-5 tbsp of ice water and mix until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two equal parts, wrap each part in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Preparing the Apple Filling

After your pie crust is ready, it’s time to prepare the apple filling. You’ll need 6-7 cups of peeled and thinly sliced Granny Smith apples. Add 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 tsp of ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp of ground nutmeg, and 1-2 tbsp of lemon juice to the apples. Mix everything together until the apples are coated in the sugar and spice mixture.

Assembling the Pie

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Roll out one of the pie crusts and gently place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Add the apple filling to the pie crust. Roll out the second pie crust and cut it into strips. Arrange the strips in a lattice pattern on top of the apple filling. Brush the crust with 1-2 tbsp of heavy cream and sprinkle with 1 tbsp of sugar.

Baking the Pie

Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving.

Optional Dutch Apple Variation

If you want to add a little extra crunch and sweetness to your Country Apple Pie, try this Dutch apple variation. Instead of arranging the pie crust in a lattice pattern, sprinkle the top of the apple filling with a mixture of 1/2 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1/2 tsp of ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp of ground nutmeg, and 1/4 cup of melted salted butter. Bake the pie for 55-60 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Country Apple Pie!

Substitutions and Variations

Country Apple Pie is a classic dessert that is perfect for any occasion. One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. You can switch out ingredients to customize it to your liking. Here are some substitutions and variations you can try:

– Apples: While Granny Smith apples are the traditional choice for this recipe, you can use any type of apple you like. Honeycrisp, Braeburn, or Pink Lady apples work well for a sweeter pie, while Rome or Cortland apples are great for a more tart flavor.

– Sugar: If you want to reduce the amount of sugar in your pie, you can use a sugar substitute like Splenda or Stevia. You can also use brown sugar instead of white sugar for a deeper flavor.

– Pie Crust: You can use a store-bought pie crust for convenience, or you can make your own. A graham cracker crust is a great alternative if you prefer a sweeter pie.

– Spices: The cinnamon and nutmeg in this recipe can be adjusted to your taste. You can add more or less of each spice, or you can substitute them with other spices like allspice, cloves, or ginger.

– Toppings: If you want to add a little something extra to your pie, you can try a streusel topping. Mix together flour, sugar, and salted butter until crumbly and sprinkle on top of the pie before baking. You can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream when serving.

– Crust Variations: Consider trying a lattice, braided or crumble top crust variations for a different presentation, texture and flavour.

Overall, experimenting with substitutions and variations is a fun way to make this classic dessert your own. Don’t be afraid to get creative and see what works best for you!

Serving and Pairing

There’s nothing quite like a warm and delicious slice of country apple pie, fresh out of the oven. This classic American dessert is the perfect way to end any meal, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages.

When it comes to serving apple pie, there are a few options to consider. You can serve it on its own, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Alternatively, you can pair it with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese, which is a traditional New England way to enjoy apple pie.

If you’re looking to take your apple pie game to the next level, consider serving it with a warm, spiced cider or a cup of coffee. The warm, comforting flavors of these beverages complement the sweet, tart flavors of the pie perfectly.

For a more indulgent pairing, you can serve your apple pie with a glass of dessert wine, such as a late harvest Riesling or a port. The sweetness of the wine pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the pie, creating a truly decadent dessert experience.

No matter how you choose to serve your country apple pie, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. So go ahead and indulge in this classic American dessert, and savor every delicious bite.

Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating

Making an apple pie in advance can be a lifesaver during busy days or gatherings. To make the Country Apple Pie ahead of time, you can prepare the pie dough and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Simply wrap the dough tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it until ready to use. For the filling, mix the sliced apples with the lemon juice and spices, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge.

If you’re planning to bake the pie ahead of time, it’s best to freeze the unbaked pie instead of refrigerating it. This will help to prevent the filling from getting too soggy. Wrap the unbaked pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. The pie can be frozen for up to a month.

When you’re ready to bake the pie, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the fridge overnight. Then, follow the baking instructions in the recipe.

Once the pie is baked and cooled, it can be stored at room temperature for up to two days. After that, it’s best to refrigerate the pie to keep it fresh. To reheat the pie, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

One thing to keep in mind when reheating the pie is to cover the edges of the crust with foil or a pie shield to prevent them from burning. You can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top of the reheated pie for an extra indulgent treat.

Overall, the Country Apple Pie can be made ahead of time and stored easily. Whether you’re freezing it for a future occasion or reheating it for a quick dessert, this apple pie will surely impress your guests with its delicious flavors and comforting aroma.

Tips for Perfect Results

Making a perfect apple pie is all about getting the right balance of flavors and textures. Here are some tips and tricks to help you create a delicious and beautiful country apple pie every time.

First, when making the crust, use salted butter instead of unsalted. It adds a subtle saltiness that enhances the sweetness of the apples. Also, make sure to use cold butter and ice water to keep the crust flaky.

Next, when choosing apples, go for a mix of tart and sweet varieties. Granny Smith apples are a classic choice for their tartness, but you can also use Honeycrisp or Braeburn for a sweeter flavor.

When slicing the apples, make sure they are all similar in size so they cook evenly. Peel and core the apples before slicing, and toss them in lemon juice to prevent browning.

For the spice mixture, use a combination of ground cinnamon and nutmeg for a warm and cozy flavor. Mix it with sugar and toss with the sliced apples to coat them evenly.

When assembling the pie, make sure the crust is not too thick or too thin. A double crust is traditional, but you can also make a lattice or use a streusel topping for a different twist.

Finally, bake the pie at 375°F for 45-50 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let it cool for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.

Follow these tips and you’ll have a perfect country apple pie every time. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different varieties of apples and spices to make it your own. Enjoy!

FAQ

Now that you know how to make a delicious Country Apple Pie, you might have some questions. Here are some frequently asked questions and answers that can help you perfect your pie-making skills.

What is the difference between country apple pie and French apple pie?

This recipe I’m about to share with you puts a unique twist on the classic American apple pie. Instead of a traditional crust, we’ll be using a sweet and crunchy crumb made with brown sugar. This type of apple pie is sometimes called Dutch, French, or Streusel apple pie, but no matter the name, the end result is a deliciously satisfying dessert. So, let’s get started!

What is the difference between Dutch apple pie and country apple pie?

Dutch Apple Pie is a delightful twist on the classic apple pie. It is distinguished by its crunchy streusel topping made with butter, flour, and sugar, which gives it a sweet and delectable flavor.

What part of the country puts cheese on apple pie?

The combination of dairy and apple production in regions such as New England, Pennsylvania, and the Midwest has led to the creation of cheesy apple pie, which has become a popular tradition. Although it is also enjoyed in parts of England and Canada, the tradition seems to be most prevalent in New England and the Midwest.

In which country apple pie is popular?

The classic dessert we call apple pie has its roots in England, where it evolved over time with influences from various other cultures such as the French, the Dutch, and even the Ottoman Empire.

Bottom Line

In conclusion, the Country Apple Pie recipe is a must-try for all the pie lovers out there. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a holiday celebration. The combination of tart granny smith apples coated in warm spice mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar, baked in a double crust, creates a deliciously crisp and flavorful pie.

I highly recommend using high-quality ingredients such as salted butter and unbleached all-purpose flour to take this pie to the next level. Additionally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and substitutions to customize this pie to your liking.

Overall, this recipe is a classic that has been enjoyed for generations and will continue to be a favorite for years to come. So, grab a slice of this homemade apple pie, sit back, and enjoy the comfort and nostalgia that comes with each bite. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

[custom-related-posts title=”Recommended Recipes Just For You” none_text=”None found” order_by=”date” order=”ASC”]