Apple Pie From Scratch

Ingredients:

For the Pie Crust:

• 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, cold & cubed
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 6-8 tbsp ice water

For the Apple Filling:

• 6-7 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (50g) brown sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp cornstarch or flour (to thicken)
• 1 tbsp butter (for dotting on top of filling)

For the Egg Wash (Optional):

• 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk

Instructions:

1. Make the Pie Crust:

1. In a large bowl, whisk flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until it looks like coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, mixing just until the dough comes together.
4. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for 1 hour.

2. Prepare the Apple Filling:

1. Peel, core, and slice apples ¼-inch thick.
2. Toss with sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Let sit for 15 minutes.

3. Assemble the Pie:

1. Roll out one dough disc into a 12-inch circle and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish.
2. Fill with the apple mixture, then dot with small pieces of butter.
3. Roll out the second dough disc and cover the pie (or make a lattice top).
4. Trim excess dough, seal edges, and crimp. Cut small slits if using a full crust.
5. Brush with egg wash for a golden finish.

4. Bake:

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
3. Let cool for at least 2 hours before slicing (this helps set the filling).