Get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey through a classic American dessert that has been warming hearts and delighting families for generations! This Pennsylvania Dutch Apple Pie isn't just a recipe; it's a slice of culinary heritage that promises to transform your kitchen into a nostalgic haven of sweet, cinnamon-spiced comfort. With its perfectly golden crust, tender apple slices, and a harmony of warm spices, this pie is more than just a dessert—it's an experience that will transport you straight to the cozy farmhouses of Pennsylvania Dutch country.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 6 cups sliced apples
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 pie crust
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the middle of the oven for even baking.
- Wash and peel the apples. Use a sharp knife or apple corer to remove the cores, then slice the apples into thin, uniform slices approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with lemon juice, tossing gently to prevent browning and add a bright, tangy flavor.
- In a separate small bowl, mix together sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Sprinkle the sugar-spice mixture over the apple slices, carefully folding to ensure every apple slice is evenly coated.
- Roll out the pie crust and gently place it into a 9-inch pie dish, allowing slight overhang around the edges.
- Pour the seasoned apple mixture into the prepared pie crust, arranging the slices evenly.
- Dot the top of the apple filling with small pieces of butter, which will melt and add richness during baking.
- If desired, cover the pie with a second crust, crimping the edges and cutting small vents to allow steam to escape.
- Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any potential drips, and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes.
- The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence.
Tips
- Apple Selection is Key: Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor balance.
- Prevent Apple Browning: Toss sliced apples in lemon juice immediately after cutting to maintain their fresh appearance and add a bright note.
- Uniform Slicing: Use a sharp knife or mandoline to create consistent apple slice thickness, ensuring even cooking.
- Spice Balance: Don't be afraid to adjust the cinnamon and nutmeg to your taste, but keep proportions similar to maintain the classic flavor profile.
- Crust Perfection: For an extra-flaky crust, chill your pie dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling and baking.
- Prevent Soggy Bottom: Place a baking sheet under your pie to catch drips and help crisp the bottom crust.
- Cooling is Crucial: Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes to let the filling set properly, preventing a runny texture.
- Serving Suggestion: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate this pie from delicious to absolutely divine!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 10mg
