There’s just something magical about the aroma of freshly baked apple pie wafting through the house. It’s like a warm hug from the inside! Whenever I think of apple pie, I’m flooded with memories of my grandma in her tiny kitchen, flour dust dancing in the air as she rolled out the dough. She had this incredible ability to slice apples like a pro and create a pie that not only looked stunning but also required an extra large cup of coffee just to get through the sweetness.
This recipe for apple pie doesn’t just taste like Grandma’s; it practically is a slice of nostalgia. With each bite, it transports me back to those cozy afternoons filled with laughter and stories, and the best part? I can share this experience with you!
What’s in Apple Pie that Tastes Like Grandma’s?
Apples: The star of the show! I typically use a mix of Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness. It creates a harmonious balance that elevates the pie to perfection.
Granulated Sugar: Sweeten things up a bit! Depending on the tartness of your apples, you may adjust this to taste. I usually lean towards 2/3 cup.
Brown Sugar: Adding brown sugar not only gives sweetness but also adds a hint of that rich molasses flavor that’s just divine.
Ground Cinnamon: The warm, cozy spice that makes apple pie feel like a warm hug. I like to add just enough to make you say, “Mmm!” without overwhelming the apple flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to. It creates that delightful flaky crust and adds richness to the filling.
Pie Crust: You can either go for a homemade pie crust (which I highly recommend for that extra love) or store-bought if you’re short on time. But honestly, there’s just something about the homemade touch that makes it feel special!
Nutmeg: A pinch of fresh nutmeg enhances the flavor and brings out the warmth of the apples. Just every so slightly, it makes a world of difference.
Is Apple Pie That Tastes Like Grandma’s Good for You?
While we can all agree that apple pie is not a health food, there are definitely some redeeming qualities!
Apples: These lovely fruits are packed with fiber, vitamin C, and various antioxidants. Plus, they help keep your digestive system in check. It’s basically nature’s candy!
Brown Sugar: It may contain fewer nutrients than sucanat or coconut sugar, but in moderation, it can sweeten your day.
But let’s be honest—this pie is a treat! Enjoy it occasionally, perhaps on a weekend or during the holidays, rather than everyday consumption. Balance is key, right?
Ingredients List
– 6 to 8 cups of mixed apples (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
– 2/3 cup granulated sugar
– 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 prepared pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 pinch of ground nutmeg
*Serves 8 generous slices or 12 if you’re being polite!*
How to Make Apple Pie that Tastes Like Grandma’s?
1. **Preheat the Oven:** Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is crucial for achieving that golden crust.
2. **Prepare the Filling:** In a large mixing bowl, peel, core, and slice your apples. I love doing this by hand; it feels more authentic! Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and nutmeg. Toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated.
3. **Roll Out the Crust:** If you’re making your own pie crust, roll it out on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Place it into your pie pan and trim the edges.
4. **Fill the Pie:** Pour the apple mixture into the crust, making sure to distribute the apples evenly. Dot the top with small pieces of butter.
5. **Top Crust:** Roll the second pie crust (if you’re using it) and place it on top of the filling. Crimp the edges to seal and cut slits in the top for the steam to escape. If you’re feeling fancy, add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top!
6. **Bake:** Place your pie in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
7. **Cool:** Let it cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Trust me; it’s worth the wait!
Sweet Tips for Making Your Pie Extra Special
– **Flavoring Your Apples:** Try adding a splash of vanilla extract to the apple mixture for a touch of extra flavor.
– **Crust Crimping:** Get creative with your crust edges! You could do a simple fork crimp or get fancy with a braided crust if you’re feeling adventurous.
– **Serve with Ice Cream:** Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream makes the perfect accomplice for your pie!
I hope you give this apple pie a try! Nothing beats the feeling of sharing a slice with loved ones, reminiscing about the past, and creating new memories. I’d love to hear how it turns out for you or any special memories this pie brings up! Let’s keep the love for baking alive!