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Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Perfect Apple Pie

Step 1: Make the Pie Crust

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. This is the base of your crust, which will hold everything together.
2. Cut in the Butter: Add the cold, diced butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You should still see some larger chunks of butter.
3. Add Ice Water: Slowly add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just begins to come together. You may not need all the water, so be sure to add it gradually. The goal is to have a dough that holds together when pressed.
4. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two portions, one slightly larger than the other. Shape each portion into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. Peel and Slice the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin, uniform pieces. This helps the apples cook evenly in the pie.
2. Toss with Sugar and Spices: In a large bowl, combine the apple slices with granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. Toss everything together until the apples are well coated. The flour and cornstarch will help thicken the juices released by the apples as they bake.
3. Let It Rest: Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes, allowing the apples to release their juices and the sugar to dissolve.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

1. Roll Out the Bottom Crust: Take the larger disk of dough out of the refrigerator. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 12 inches in diameter. Carefully transfer the dough into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently into the edges. Trim any excess dough, leaving about an inch of overhang.
2. Fill the Pie: Pour the apple filling into the crust, packing it down gently. Dot the top of the apples with small pieces of butter to add richness and flavor.
3. Roll Out the Top Crust: Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the apple filling. You can either place a full crust or create a lattice top by cutting the dough into strips and weaving them over the apples.
4. Crimp the Edges: Use your fingers or a fork to crimp the edges of the top and bottom crusts together, sealing the pie. Make a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Step 4: Bake the Pie

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Apply the Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Brush this mixture over the top crust, then sprinkle with coarse sugar for a golden, slightly crunchy finish.
3. Bake: Place the pie on the middle rack of the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the slits. If the edges of the crust begin to brown too quickly, cover them with foil or a pie shield.
4. Cool: Once the pie is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for at least 1 hour. This allows the filling to set, so when you slice into it, the apples stay intact rather than oozing out.

The Finishing Touch: Serve and Enjoy

A freshly baked apple pie is always best served warm, but it’s delicious at any temperature. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence. Every bite of this apple pie brings you straight into a world of comforting flavors—flaky crust, sweet cinnamon apples, and that perfect buttery richness.

Why This Apple Pie Is a Family Tradition

For me, this recipe is more than just a set of instructions. It’s a way to connect with my grandmother and honor the traditions that she cherished. I remember watching her bake, her hands moving with practiced precision, making everything look effortless. She didn’t just bake pies—she created memories.

Every time I make this homemade apple pie, I’m reminded of the love and care she put into everything she made, and I’m able to share that love with my own family. It’s a tradition that continues, and I hope it’s one that you’ll make your own.

Final Thoughts

There’s a reason apple pie is a staple in so many households—it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion. But when it comes to my grandmother’s recipe, it’s something truly special. This melt-in-your-mouth apple pie is the result of generations of love, patience, and care. It’s the kind of pie that brings people together and makes any moment feel a little sweeter.

So, grab your rolling pin and get baking! I promise, every bite will be a reminder of the wonderful, comforting power of a homemade apple pie. Enjoy!