Apple Pie: Moist, Soft and Really Easy to Prepare

Ingredients:

For the Pie Crust:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/2 cup ice water
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Apple Filling:

• 6-7 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (a mix of sweet and tart varieties)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Assembly:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces (for dotting the filling)
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Granulated sugar (for sprinkling on top)

Instructions:

For the Pie Crust:

1. In a food processor, pulse the flour, sugar, and salt together.
2. Add the cold, cubed butter and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Slowly add the ice water while pulsing, just until the dough comes together.
4. Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

For the Apple Filling:

1. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning.
2. In a separate bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Add the sugar mixture to the apples, tossing until the apples are evenly coated.
4. Stir in vanilla extract and set the filling aside.

Assembly and Baking:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. On a floured surface, roll out one disc of pie dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Place the rolled-out dough into the pie dish, trimming any excess and crimping the edges.
4. Fill the pie crust with the prepared apple filling, dotting the top with small pieces of butter.
5. Roll out the second disc of pie dough and place it over the apple filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal.
6. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
7. Brush the top crust with beaten egg and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
8. 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 bubbly.
9. Allow the Apple Pie to cool before slicing and serving.

Enjoy this classic Apple Pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert experience!