Name: Apple Pie by Grandma Ople
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: 8 small Granny Smith apples (or as needed); 0.5 cup unsalted butter; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 0.5 cup white sugar; 0.5 cup packed brown sugar; 0.25 cup water; 1 (9 inch) double-crust pie pastry (thawed)

Introduction to Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Why Apple Pie is a Timeless Dessert

There's something truly special about apple pie, especially when it's a beloved recipe like Apple Pie by Grandma Ople. This classic dessert has a way of bringing people together, evoking warm memories of family gatherings and cozy holiday celebrations. It's a dish that resonates across generations, symbolizing comfort and home.

Did you know that apple pie has been a staple in American culture since the 18th century? It’s not just about the delicious flavors; it’s about the stories and traditions that come along with every slice. As you bite into this pie, you’ll find a delightful balance of sweet and tart apples, combined with a rich, buttery crust that's simply irresistible.

According to a study by the American Pie Council, apple pie remains the nation’s favorite dessert, illustrating how deeply ingrained it is in our culinary history. Whether enjoyed on a warm summer evening or served during festive family dinners, each piece tells a story of love and connection.

So, gather your loved ones and treat them to this delightful slice of nostalgia with Apple Pie by Grandma Ople. It’s more than a dessert; it’s a tradition worth celebrating. Explore more about the art of pie-making on sources like The New York Times Cooking for tips and tricks that can elevate your baking skills.

Ingredients for Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Creating an unforgettable dessert requires the right combination of ingredients, and Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is no exception. Here’s what you’ll need to achieve that tender, flavorful pie that has captivated family tables for generations.

Essential Ingredients for a Perfect Pie

8 small Granny Smith apples: These tart apples are ideal for baking, providing a delightful contrast to the sweetness of sugars.
½ cup unsalted butter: This adds a rich flavor while allowing for proper browning during baking.
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This helps thicken the filling, ensuring your pie won’t be too runny.
½ cup white sugar & ½ cup packed brown sugar: The combination creates a depth of sweetness that balances beautifully with the tart apples.
¼ cup water: This moisture will help cook the apples down to a succulent texture.
1 (9-inch) double-crust pie pastry: A good buttery pastry is key to achieving a flaky crust.

For more tips on selecting the best apples for baking, check out this article!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Creating the perfect Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is a delightful process that will fill your kitchen with the warm scents of cinnamon and baked apples. Follow these easy steps to make a pie that pays homage to timeless family recipes while impressing your friends and family alike.

Gather Your Ingredients

Before diving in, it's essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. You want to set yourself up for pie-making success! Here’s what you will need:

8 small Granny Smith apples
½ cup unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
½ cup white sugar
½ cup packed brown sugar
¼ cup water
1 (9-inch) double-crust pie pastry, thawed

Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Prepare the Apples

The star of the show! Begin by peeling, coring, and thinly slicing the apples. These tart Granny Smith apples provide an incredible balance to the sweetness of the sugars later on. Set them aside in a large bowl while you prepare the next step.

If you want some extra zing, consider sprinkling a dash of lemon juice over the apple slices to keep them fresh and vibrant.

Create the Sugar-Butter Mixture

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and then add the flour to create a paste. Stir for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Next, incorporate the white and brown sugars along with the water. Bring this delightful concoction to a boil before reducing the heat to simmer for about 3-5 minutes. The mixture should become slightly thickened, providing a sumptuous sauce that envelops the apples.

Assemble the Pie Crust

Now it’s time to love the crust! First, press one pastry into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Take the remaining pastry and roll it out, allowing for a ½ inch overhang. Cut this into eight strips, each about 1 inch wide.

Lay the Lattice Top

Place the sliced apples into your bottom crust, forming a lovely mound. Now, the fun begins! Lay four pastry strips vertically over the apples, making sure they’re evenly spaced. For the weaving, fold the first and third strips back and position one of the unused strips perpendicularly. Unfold the strips back to their original position. Repeat this weaving process until you've used all the strips, creating an attractive lattice that captures the essence of Grandma’s pie.

Pour the Mixture

Carefully pour the sugar-butter mixture over your beautifully crafted lattice crust. Make sure it seeps through to the apples, creating that luscious, sticky goodness everyone loves. A light brush of the mixture on the lattice will give it a gorgeous golden sheen when baked.

Bake the Pie

Finally, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the pie for 15 minutes before reducing the temperature to 350°F (175°C). Continue baking for an additional 35-45 minutes, or until the apples are soft and the crust is golden brown. You'll know it's done when you can smell that warm, comforting aroma wafting through your home.

Once baked, let your masterpiece cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this Apple Pie by Grandma Ople warm, topped with a scoop of ice cream or even a slice of Cheddar cheese for a delightful twist!

Happy baking! There's no better way to cherish family traditions than through food. What’s your favorite type of pie?

Variations on Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Caramel Apple Pie Twist

Looking to add a sweet twist to the classic Apple Pie by Grandma Ople? Try incorporating rich caramel into the mix. Simply drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the apple filling before adding the lattice crust. This delightful addition not only enhances the sweetness but also provides a wonderful gooey texture that pairs perfectly with the spiced apples. For an extra indulgence, serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream atop!

Apple Pie with Cheddar Cheese

For a savory contrast, consider adding sharp cheddar cheese to your Apple Pie by Grandma Ople. This timeless pairing balances the sweetness of the apples with its rich and tangy flavor. You can either sprinkle cheese directly on top of the apple filling before adding the top crust or serve a wedge of cheese alongside each slice. It’s a culinary delight that has stood the test of time—trust us, you won't regret trying it!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Secret Ingredients and Techniques

To elevate your Apple Pie by Grandma Ople to award-winning status, consider these simple yet effective tips. First, opt for Granny Smith apples for their perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. Adding a teaspoon of lemon juice enhances the apples' flavor and keeps them from browning.

When it comes to your crust, don't skip the chilling step! Refrigerating the dough before rolling helps achieve that flaky texture you crave. Lastly, for an irresistible shine, brush the crust with an egg wash (a blend of egg and water) before baking.

These small tweaks will transform your pie into a cherished family tradition just like Grandma Ople intended. For further reading on crust techniques, check out Serious Eats.

Serving Suggestions for Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Best Accompaniments to Enhance the Experience

When it comes time to savor your Apple Pie by Grandma Ople, the right accompaniments can elevate your pie experience to new heights. Here are some delightful suggestions:

Whipped Cream: A fluffy dollop brings a light sweetness that balances the pie's rich flavors.
Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing offers a cool contrast to the warm, spiced apples; the melting ice cream creates a heavenly blend.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel on top adds a luxurious touch that takes your apple pie to the next level.
Cheddar Cheese: If you’re adventurous, try a slice of sharp Cheddar cheese alongside the pie. The savory flavors harmonize beautifully with the sweetness of the apples.

Serving your pie with any of these options will create a memorable dessert experience that’s sure to impress family and friends! For more tips on pairing desserts, check out this insightful article.

Time Breakdown for Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Preparation Time

Gathering your ingredients and prepping the apples for this delicious pie takes about 30 minutes. It’s a great time to enjoy some music or catch up with a friend while you peel and slice those apples!

Cooking Time

After everything is prepped, the baking magic begins! The pie bakes for 1 hour, filling your kitchen with that irresistible aroma. You won’t be able to wait long before diving in!

Total Time

In total, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 30 minutes to create this cherished classic. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive holiday dessert! Have you tried any variations on this timeless recipe? Let us know in the comments!

For more baking inspiration, check out King Arthur Baking for tips and tricks to perfect your pie-making skills!

Nutritional Facts for Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

When indulging in a slice of Apple Pie by Grandma Ople, it's good to know a bit about its nutritional content. Here's a quick snapshot of the key stats for a single serving (one-eighth of the pie):

Calories

With approximately 373 calories, this pie can satisfy your sweet tooth without completely derailing your daily intake.

Total Fat

Each slice contains around 19 grams of total fat. While it's certainly delicious, enjoy it in moderation, especially if you're watching your fat intake.

Sugars

At about 30 grams of sugar, this pie is definitely sweet and delightful. Pairing it with a side of savory cheese can help balance the flavors!

For further reading on the benefits of apples and their nutritional value, check out Healthline's article on the health benefits of apples. Enjoy this homemade classic while being mindful of its nutritional aspects!

FAQs about Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

What type of apples work best for this recipe?

When making Apple Pie by Grandma Ople, the ideal choice is Granny Smith apples. Their tartness balances perfectly with the sweetness of the sugars, providing that classic flavor you're looking for. However, feel free to mix in some sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for added complexity!

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pie and keep it unbaked in your fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover it with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. If you want to save more time, bake the pie and store it at room temperature for a day or two.

How should I store leftovers?

Leftover Apple Pie by Grandma Ople can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly and refrigerate it for up to five days. To enjoy it warm later, simply pop it in the oven for a few minutes!

For tips on pie storage, check out this helpful guide from the USDA.

Conclusion on Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

In summary, Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is a beloved dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also warms the heart. Its unique flavor profile and lovely lattice crust are bound to impress your family and friends. Try this timeless recipe for your next gathering and create beautiful memories.