Autumn Apple Pie for Beginners

Autumn Apple Pie for Beginners

As the crisp autumn air sets in and the leaves begin to turn, there's no better way to celebrate the season than with a classic apple pie. This delightful dessert is a quintessential autumn treat, perfect for beginners looking to hone their baking skills. With a flaky crust and a sweet, spiced filling, this apple pie is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• For the crust:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
  • 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water

• For the filling:

  • 6 to 8 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended), peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Cooking method

1. Prepare the crust:

   • In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar.
   • Add the diced butter and blend with a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, tossing with a fork until the dough holds together when pressed.
   • Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

2. 

   Preheat the oven:

   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

3. Prepare the filling:

   • In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss until evenly coated.

4. 

   Assemble the pie:

   • Roll out one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface to fit your 9-inch pie pan. Transfer this crust to the pie pan and trim the edges.
   • Fill with the apple mixture and dot with butter.
   • Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Trim, seal, and flute the edges. Cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

5. Bake the pie:

   • Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven.
   • Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
   • Cool on a wire rack before serving.

Nutritious Value and Pairings

Apple pie is a calorie-dense dessert, providing energy through carbohydrates primarily from the crust and sugars. It supplies dietary fiber from the apples, which aids in digestion. While apple pie is not particularly rich in vitamins and minerals, the apples do contribute small amounts of vitamin C and potassium.

For a balanced meal, consider pairing your apple pie with a light, crisp side salad or a selection of roasted root vegetables. The freshness and crunch of a green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can contrast delightfully with the sweet, warm pie. As for drinks, a spiced apple cider or a warm cup of chamomile tea complements the flavors of the pie and enhances the autumnal experience. For a more indulgent pairing, vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes a classic accompaniment to the pie's warmth and sweetness.