soft apple pie

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pie Crust:

• Start by making the pie crust. In a large bowl, combine flour, powdered sugar, and salt. Add the chilled butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
• Add the egg yolk and cold water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
• Once the dough is ready, form it into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This helps the dough relax and makes it easier to roll out.

2. Make the Apple Filling:

• While the crust is chilling, prepare the apple filling. Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin, even slices.
• In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and lemon juice. Make sure the apples are evenly coated with the spices and sugar mixture. The flour helps thicken the filling as it bakes, keeping the pie from becoming too runny.
• Set the filling aside while you roll out the dough.

3. Assemble the Pie:

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan. The dough should be about 1/8 inch thick.
• Transfer the rolled-out dough into the pie pan and trim any excess dough from the edges. You can crimp the edges for a decorative look or fold them under to create a thicker crust.
• Pour the apple filling into the prepared pie crust, making sure the apples are evenly distributed. Dot the top of the apples with small pieces of butter.
• Cover the pie with a top crust if you desire, or leave it open for a more rustic look. If you use a top crust, be sure to cut slits to allow steam to escape.

4. Bake the Pie:

• Sprinkle granulated sugar over the top of the pie for a golden, sweet finish.
• Bake the pie in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling. If the crust begins to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil or a pie shield to prevent burning.
• Once done, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to set and make it easier to slice.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

• Serve your soft apple pie warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence. It’s the perfect combination of tender crust and spiced apples, making every bite a comforting delight.

Tips for Perfect Soft Apple Pie

• Choose the Right Apples: Granny Smith apples are ideal for apple pie because they balance sweetness and tartness, and they hold their shape during baking. However, you can mix different apple varieties for a more complex flavor, such as Honeycrisp or Fuji.
• Don’t Skip Chilling the Dough: Chilling the dough before rolling it out ensures a tender, flaky crust. It also prevents the butter from melting too quickly, which helps maintain the structure of the crust.
• Test the Filling Consistency: The flour in the apple filling should create a thick, saucy consistency when baked. If you prefer a thicker filling, you can add a little more flour or cornstarch, or cook the apples down for a few minutes before adding them to the crust.
• Add a Touch of Vanilla: For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the apple filling. It enhances the sweetness and adds depth to the flavor.
• Let It Cool: Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before cutting into it. This gives the filling time to set and prevents it from being too runny when you slice it.

Why Soft Apple Pie is a Classic Favorite

Apple pie has long been considered a symbol of home and comfort. Whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday feast, or simply a weekend treat, apple pie is a dessert that brings people together. The soft, pillowy crust and sweet, spiced apple filling make this version of apple pie particularly comforting.

Its balance of textures—the softness of the crust with the tender apples—is a delight in every bite. It’s a dessert that captures the essence of cozy, homemade goodness, making it the perfect treat for any occasion.

Conclusion

Soft Apple Pie is a refreshing twist on a classic that everyone loves. With its tender, melt-in-your-mouth crust and warm, spiced apple filling, it brings comfort, warmth, and nostalgia to your table. Whether you’re serving it as a family dessert or bringing it to a gathering, this soft apple pie is sure to become a new favorite.

So, roll up your sleeves, bake up this delicious treat, and enjoy the comforting, irresistible flavors of homemade apple pie!