Introduction
There is something magical about baking a pie that has been passed down through generations. Grandma Old Fashioned Apple Pie recipe is a time-honored tradition, representing warmth, nostalgia, and family bonding. The simple combination of apples, cinnamon, sugar, and buttery crust creates a dessert that is universally loved. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday, a family gathering, or a simple treat, this recipe will transport you back to your childhood kitchen, where the sweet aroma of baked apples filled the air.
This article will surely walk you through every step of recreating this classic apple pie, sharing tips, tricks, and variations to help you make the best pie yet.
For more creative ways to reuse ingredients, explore what can you do with sourdough discard.
History of Grandma’s Old Fashioned Apple Pie
The story of apple pie goes back centuries, with its roots in Europe, particularly in England. It wasn’t until the 17th and 18th centuries that apple pie made its way to America, becoming a symbol of American tradition and hospitality. Over time, each family developed its version of apple pie, passed down through the generations, and Grandma’s recipe was no different.
This old-fashioned apple pie has a rich history in many American households. The combination of tart apples, warm spices, and a flaky crust became a staple at holiday dinners, particularly during Thanksgiving and Christmas. Just like recipes for other old-school desserts like Grandma’s sourdough discard recipes, this pie represents a way of connecting with the past.
Ingredients for Grandma Old Fashioned Apple Pie Recipe
In order to achieve the perfect apple pie, it’s essential to use the right ingredients. The balance between tart and sweet apples, paired with a buttery crust and classic spices, is what sets this pie apart.
For the Filling:
- Apples: A combination of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples provide a perfect mix of tartness and sweetness.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar and brown sugar for depth of flavor.
- Spices: Ground cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg for warmth.
- Flour: Used as a thickener for the filling.
- Butter: To dot the apples before covering them with the top crust.
For the Crust:
- Flour: All-purpose flour.
- Butter: Cold and unsalted for a flaky texture.
- Salt: A pinch to enhance flavor.
- Water: Ice-cold water to bring the dough together.
These ingredients form the foundation of an unforgettable pie, similar to how traditional ingredients define other recipes, such as this pancake recipe without milk.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Grandma’s Apple Pie
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making the pie from scratch.
1st Step : Preparing the Crust
- Combine the flour and salt in a large bowl.
- Add cold butter, cutting it into the flour using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice-cold water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough starts to come together.
- Divide the dough into two disks, wrap them in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
For more tips on making perfect dough, check out this guide on the best flour for baking.
2nd Step : Preparing the Apples
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into ¼-inch slices.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the apple slices, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
- Let the apples sit for about 30 minutes in order to macerate.
3rd Step : Assembling the Pie
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- On a floured surface, roll out one disk of the dough to fit your pie dish, leaving about 1 inch of overhang.
- Transfer the dough to the pie dish and press it gently into the corners.
- Add the apple mixture to the pie crust, dotting the top with butter.
- Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal.
- Cut a few slits in the top crust for ventilation, and brush with egg wash for a golden finish.
4th Step : Baking
- Place the pie on the middle rack of the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil.
- Allow the pie to cool for at least an hour before slicing.
Tips for a Perfect Pie
To ensure your Grandma’s Old Fashioned Apple Pie turns out just right, here are some helpful tips:
- Keep Your Dough Cold: Cold dough is essential for a flaky crust. If the dough warms up while rolling, pop it back in the fridge for 10 minutes.
- Use a Variety of Apples: For the best balance, use both tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. For more apple ideas, refer to the apple varieties guide.
- Pre-cook the Apples: If you’re worried about a watery filling, consider pre-cooking the apples for a few minutes to reduce moisture.
- Let the Pie Rest: Allow the pie to rest for at least an hour before slicing to let the filling set properly.
For more inspiration on how to reuse and store leftover ingredients, refer to what can you do with sourdough discard.
Popular Variations of Grandma’s Apple Pie
One of the best things about this old-fashioned apple pie recipe is how easily it can be adapted to suit different tastes. Here are some popular variations you can try:
- Dutch Apple Pie
Swap the top crust for a sweet and buttery crumb topping made from flour, butter, and sugar. - Caramel Apple Pie
Add a layer of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce to the apple filling for an extra indulgent pie. - Cheddar Apple Pie
For a savory twist, incorporate shredded cheddar cheese into the pie crust or sprinkle it on top of the filling before baking. - Gluten-Free Apple Pie
Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust, making the pie accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
For another take on pie recipes, explore this recipe for peach pie, which is a great alternative if you want a break from apples.
FAQs: Grandma Old Fashioned Apple Pie Recipe
1. Can I leave the skin on the apples?
Yes, you can leave the skin on in case you prefer a slightly chewier texture. However, most traditional recipes call for peeling the apples to create a smoother filling.
2. Should I pre-cook the apples before baking the pie?
Pre-cooking the apples can help reduce moisture, preventing a soggy pie. This is optional but can lead to a thicker filling.
3. How can I make this pie gluten-free?
In order to make this pie gluten-free, simply replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the thickener used for the filling is gluten-free.
4. How long can I store the pie?
You can store an unbaked pie in the freezer for up to 6 months. Once baked, it will last for about 4 days in the refrigerator.
Additionally, for more insights into making pies, check out our Kool-Aid pie recipe.
Serving Suggestions
Grandma’s apple pie is best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For an added indulgence, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top or pair it with a hot beverage like apple cider or coffee.
Conclusion : Grandma Old Fashioned Apple Pie Recipe
Grandma Old Fashioned Apple Pie recipe is a dessert that stands the test of time, bringing generations together with its simple yet irresistible flavors. Whether you follow the classic recipe or try one of the variations, you’ll be rewarded with a pie that fills your home with warmth and nostalgia. As you perfect your pie-baking skills, don’t forget to enjoy the process and share your creation with loved ones, just as Grandma would have done.
Finally, for more pie inspiration, explore different types of pies and find your next favorite recipe.