Serve slices of apple pie warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic treat.
Store leftover apple pie in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or oven before serving for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Jonagold for a balanced flavor and texture in your pie filling.
Master the art of making a flaky and tender pie crust with the right ratio of flour, butter, and cold water. Chill the dough before rolling it out for best results.
Slice the apples evenly and toss them with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Let the mixture sit to draw out juices before adding it to the pie crust.
Arrange the apple filling evenly in the prepared pie crust. Dot with butter for richness and cover with a second layer of crust, sealing the edges with a fork or crimping them decoratively.
Cut slits or create decorative cutouts in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking, preventing the filling from becoming too watery.
Brush the top crust with an egg wash (beaten egg mixed with water or milk) before baking to achieve a golden brown color and glossy finish.
Bake the apple pie at a high temperature (around 400°F) initially to set the crust, then reduce the heat to ensure the apples cook through without over-browning the crust.
Allow the apple pie to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing. This helps the filling set and prevents it from running when served.