In the crisp embrace of autumn, there’s nothing quite like the warmth and aroma of a freshly baked Granny Smith Apple Pie. A classic among classics, this timeless dessert has the power to evoke cherished memories and create new ones. Join us on a culinary adventure as we uncover the secrets to crafting the perfect Granny Smith Apple Pie – from the golden crust to the cinnamon-kissed filling.
Ingredients:
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 cup of unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar
- 6-8 tablespoons of ice water
For the Filling:
- 6 to 7 medium-sized Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 3/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of light brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
Instructions:
Step 1: Craft the Perfect Crust Begin with the foundation – the pie crust. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the chilled, cubed butter, and using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least one hour.
Step 2: Roll, Place, and Chill Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one disc of the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Place the crust in the dish, trim any excess, and chill while preparing the filling.
Step 3: Create the Apple Filling Peel, core, and slice the Granny Smith apples. In a large mixing bowl, toss the apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice. Ensure the apples are thoroughly coated, allowing the flavors to meld into a harmonious symphony.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake Retrieve the chilled crust and fill it generously with the apple mixture. Roll out the second disc of dough, place it over the apples, and seal the edges. Cut a few slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Cook Notes:
- To prevent a soggy crust, consider brushing the bottom of the crust with a beaten egg before adding the filling.
- For an extra touch of sweetness, sprinkle a bit of sugar on top of the crust before baking.
Variations:
- Caramel Drizzle: Elevate your Granny Smith Apple Pie by drizzling warm caramel over the top just before serving.
- Pecan Streusel Topping: For a crunchy twist, sprinkle a pecan streusel topping over the apples before sealing the pie.
Keto Version: Fear not, keto enthusiasts – you can still savor the essence of Granny Smith Apple Pie with a few adjustments. Swap almond flour for the crust, and use a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit in the filling. Choose low-carb fruits in moderation, such as berries, to maintain the apple pie spirit without the carb overload.
Low-Carb Version: For those keeping a close eye on carbs, consider a nut-based crust using almond or coconut flour. Opt for a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit, and select low-carb fruits like berries or rhubarb to maintain that delightful tartness.
As the aroma of Granny Smith Apple Pie wafts through your kitchen, you’ll find yourself not just baking a pie but creating a moment. Whether you follow the classic recipe or venture into keto or low-carb territories, the joy of sharing a slice with loved ones remains unchanged. So, embrace the season, gather your apples, and dive into the art of baking a Granny Smith Apple Pie that transcends time and taste. Harvest the memories, one delicious slice at a time.
