Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Introduction

Grandma Ople’s Apple Pie recipe has become a cherished classic for dessert enthusiasts. This recipe offers a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, paired with a flaky crust that’s sure to delight. Passed down generations, this apple pie is sure to evoke warmth, nostalgia, and comfort, making it the perfect treat for any family gathering or holiday celebration.

Detailed Ingredients with Measures

– 1 recipe pastry for a 9-inch double crust pie
– ½ cup unsalted butter
– 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– ¼ cup water
– ½ cup white sugar
– ½ cup packed brown sugar
– 8 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced

Prep Time

Preparation time for this recipe takes about 30 minutes. This includes preparing the pie crust and slicing the apples to perfection, ensuring you’re ready to assemble a pie that looks just as good as it tastes.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cooking time is approximately 1 hour, resulting in a perfectly golden, flaky crust. Adding the prep time, the total time to craft this delightful dessert is 1 hour and 30 minutes. This recipe serves about 8 people, perfect for sharing with loved ones at the dining table.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a dessert to impress and enchant guests, Grandma Ople’s Apple Pie is a superb choice. With its timeless flavors and comforting essence, it transforms simple ingredients into an extraordinary creation. Whether for Thanksgiving or any other special occasion, this recipe makes dessert a memorable experience.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Ensure the rack is placed in the lower-middle position for even baking.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Crust

Place one of the pie crusts into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring it fits snugly along the bottom and the sides. Trim any excess dough that overhangs beyond the rim of the dish. Leave this prepared crust aside while continuing with the filling.

Step 3: Create the Sugar Syrup

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter completely. Once it has melted, mix in the all-purpose flour to create a paste. Stir continuously to keep it smooth. Gradually add water, granulated sugar, and packed brown sugar to the mixture. Stir well to combine and allow the mixture to come to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a syrup-like consistency. Remove from heat and set it aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Apple Filling

Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin, evenly sized pieces. Transfer the apple slices into the prepared bottom pie crust, mounding them slightly in the center.

Step 5: Cover with a Top Crust

Roll out the second pie crust and carefully cover the apples with it. You can choose to weave the top crust into a lattice pattern or cover it as a whole sheet. If using a whole sheet, trim and crimp the edges to seal both crusts together, then cut several small slits into the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.

Step 6: Add the Sugar Syrup

Slowly and carefully pour the prepared sugar syrup over the top crust. Pour primarily through any openings, such as the lattice or slits, and around the edges near the crust. Use a spoon if necessary to control where the syrup pools.

Step 7: Bake the Pie

Place the pie dish on the preheated oven’s lower rack to bake. Bake the pie at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes. After that, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) without opening the oven door, and continue baking the pie for an additional 35 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on the crust and filling during this time to prevent over-browning.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked to a golden brown color, remove the pie from the oven. Allow it to cool at room temperature for at least 1 to 2 hours before serving. This cooling period helps the filling set and makes slicing easier.

Notes

Note on Apple Selection

Choose firm and slightly tart apples, such as Granny Smith, for the best results. A mix of apple varieties can also add depth to the flavor.

Note on Crust Options

You may use store-bought crusts for convenience or make a homemade pie crust to enhance the flavor and texture. Ensure the crust is chilled before use.

Note on Sugar Syrup Application

When pouring the sugar syrup, ensure it is evenly distributed over and around the pie to ensure consistent sweetness throughout. Avoid flooding any single area.

Note on Cooling Time

Although it may be tempting to slice into the pie immediately, be patient and allow it to cool. Cutting too early can cause the filling to spill out as it hasn’t fully set yet.

Note on Storing Leftovers

Store leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat slices in the oven or microwave before serving.

Note on Alternative Toppings

For extra flavor, consider serving each slice with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. A sprinkle of cinnamon can also enhance the taste.

Cook Techniques

Prepping the Apples

Peel, core, and slice the apples evenly to ensure uniform cooking. Use a sharp knife or an apple peeler for efficiency. The thinner the slices, the softer they will be after baking.

Creating the Butter and Sugar Mixture

Melt butter in a saucepan and mix it with flour to form a paste. Gradually stir in granulated sugar, brown sugar, and water to create a smooth, rich filling syrup.

Pie Crust Assembly

Line the bottom of your pie dish with one crust. To create the lattice pattern for the top, cut the second crust into even strips and weave them over the pie before baking.

Pouring the Syrup

Once the lattice crust is in place, gently pour the syrup mixture evenly over the lattice. Pour slowly to ensure the mixture seeps into the pie rather than spilling over the edges.

Even Baking

Bake the pie in a preheated oven at 425 degrees F (220 degrees C) until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Check periodically to prevent overbrowning, and consider tenting with foil if necessary.

FAQ

What types of apples work best for this pie?

A combination of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Fuji apples, works well for balanced flavor and texture.

Can I use store-bought pie crust?

Yes, store-bought pie crust can be used if you want to save time, though homemade crust often provides a better flavor and texture.

How can I prevent the pie from being too runny?

Ensure the syrup mixture is well-thickened before pouring it into the pie. Also, allow the pie to cool completely after baking to set the filling.

Should I use salted or unsalted butter?

Unsalted butter is recommended to better control the salt levels in your recipe.

How do I store leftovers?

Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat individual slices in the oven for a fresh taste.

Can I freeze the pie?

Yes, you can freeze the baked pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw it in the refrigerator and bake briefly to crisp the crust before serving.

Conclusion

Grandma Ople’s apple pie is a timeless recipe that takes an ordinary dessert to an extraordinary level. The rich buttery caramel glaze combined with sweet, tender apples creates a pie that is both nostalgic and indulgent. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, this pie is sure to win hearts at every occasion. Whether enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or on its own, this classic dessert will become a beloved favorite for generations.

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