Apple Pie - Fraîche Living
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Experience the comforting flavors of homemade Apple Pie with a twist inspired by Fraîche Living.
This Apple Pie recipe from Fraîche Living combines classic flavors with fresh ingredients to create a dessert that warms the heart.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously spiced apples enveloped in a flaky crust
- A perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors
- Ideal for holidays or cozy family gatherings
The Perfect Pie Crust
Creating the perfect pie crust is an art that can elevate your apple pie to new heights. The key is to use cold ingredients, especially the butter, which helps to create that coveted flaky texture. When mixing, be careful not to overwork the dough; a few visible chunks of butter will ensure a flaky crust that melts in your mouth.
Chilling the dough is also essential. This step allows the gluten to relax, preventing shrinkage during baking. If time allows, refrigerate the dough overnight for even better results. When you're ready to bake, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface, keeping it about an eighth of an inch thick for optimal structure and crispness.
Choosing the Right Apples
The choice of apples significantly influences the flavor and texture of your pie. Granny Smith apples offer a tartness that balances perfectly with the sweetness of sugar, while Honeycrisp apples provide a juicy crunch. For a more complex flavor, consider mixing different varieties. This combination not only enhances taste but also adds depth to the filling.
When selecting apples, look for firm, unblemished fruits that feel heavy for their size. Avoid overly soft apples, as they may break down too much during baking, resulting in a mushy filling. Fresh, seasonal apples will bring out the best flavors in your pie.
Serving Suggestions
Serving your apple pie warm, straight from the oven, is a delightful experience. To enhance the flavors further, top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The creamy textures beautifully complement the warm, spiced apple filling and flaky crust, making every bite a celebration of flavors.
For an extra touch, sprinkle some cinnamon or drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving. This not only adds visual appeal but also elevates the taste profile, creating an irresistible dessert that will impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 6-8 tbsp ice water
For the Filling
- 6 cups sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp butter, to dot
Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you begin!
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Pie Crust
In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing until dough forms.
Make the Filling
In another bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until well coated.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface and fit it into a pie pan. Fill with the apple mixture and dot with butter.
Bake the Pie
Bake for about 45 minutes or until the crust is golden and the apples are tender. Let cool before serving.
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Storage Tips
To keep your apple pie fresh, store it at room temperature covered loosely with foil or plastic wrap. It’s best enjoyed within a couple of days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it, which can extend its shelf life for up to a week. Just remember to allow the pie to come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
If you want to prepare ahead, you can also freeze your apple pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it, bake it from frozen—just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time for a beautifully warmed pie.
Variations to Try
While the classic apple pie is delightful, there are numerous variations to explore. Consider adding a handful of cranberries or raisins to the apple filling for a burst of tangy sweetness. You could also mix in some nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for added crunch and flavor complexity.
If you're feeling adventurous, try incorporating spices like ginger or allspice alongside cinnamon for a unique twist. Each variation can bring a fresh perspective to this timeless dessert, allowing you to customize the pie to your taste.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes, you can use store-bought crust if you're short on time.
→ What type of apples are best for pie?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are great choices for their balance of sweetness and tartness.
→ How do I prevent the crust from burning?
Cover the edges of the pie with foil if they brown too quickly.
→ Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking.
Apple Pie - Fraîche Living
Experience the comforting flavors of homemade Apple Pie with a twist inspired by Fraîche Living.
Created by: Piper Andrews
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pie Crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 6-8 tbsp ice water
For the Filling
- 6 cups sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp butter, to dot
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing until dough forms. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 1 hour.
In another bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until well coated.
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface and fit it into a pie pan. Fill with the apple mixture and dot with butter. Roll out the second disc and cover the pie, sealing the edges. Cut slits for steam to escape.
Bake for about 45 minutes or until the crust is golden and the apples are tender. Let cool before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g