Introduction
This delicious apple pie with a beautiful criss-cross crust is the perfect dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth. Made with fresh apples, warm spices, and a flaky crust, this classic dessert is a crowd-pleaser.
When to Enjoy
This apple pie is perfect for enjoying during the fall season when apples are at their peak. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a cozy and comforting dessert.
Where it’s Popular
Apple pie is a beloved dessert in many countries, but it is especially popular in the United States. It is often served during holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this delicious apple pie with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of cold milk. The warm spices in the pie complement the earthy flavors of coffee and the creamy texture of milk.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some tips and tricks to make the perfect apple pie:
- Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavor.
- Don’t overfill the pie with apples as they will shrink during baking.
- Brush the top crust with an egg wash for a golden and shiny finish.
- Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the filling to set.
Criss-Cross Apple Pie
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup ice water
- 6 cups Granny Smith apples peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar divided
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Add the chilled and cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your hands to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water to the flour and butter mixture. Mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a separate bowl, combine the thinly sliced apples, 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, cornstarch, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are coated in the mixture.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. Place the dough in a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it against the bottom and sides.
- Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust.
- Roll out the remaining dough and cut it into thin strips. Create a lattice pattern on top of the pie by criss-crossing the dough strips.
- Trim off any excess dough and press the edges to seal.
- Brush the top of the pie with the beaten egg for a golden crust.
- Bake the pie for 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Allow the pie to cool for at least 1 hour before serving.
