Apple Pie

Apple pie is a classic and beloved dessert. Here's a traditional apple pie recipe for you to enjoy:

Ingredients:

For the Pie Crust:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• 6-8 tablespoons ice water

For the Apple Filling:

• 6-7 cups of apples (a mix of Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or your preferred variety), peeled, cored, and sliced
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• A pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Assembly:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

For the Pie Crust:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix. Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape them into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

For the Apple Filling:

1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Toss until the apples are well coated.

To Assemble the Pie:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out one of the chilled pie crust discs on a floured surface to fit your pie dish. Carefully transfer it to the pie dish.
3. Fill the pie crust with the apple filling and distribute the small pieces of butter over the top of the apples.
4. Roll out the second pie crust disc and place it over the apples. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
5. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. You can also create a decorative pattern if you wish.
6. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
7. Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
8. Allow the pie to cool before slicing and serving. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature, and it's delicious with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.