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Get ready to bake the ultimate deep-dish apple pie! This pie combines the perfect blend of sweet and tart apples with a flaky, buttery crust. Follow this easy recipe to make a Thanksgiving dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients:
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Adjust Servings
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour | |
1 cup unsalted butter (cut into cubes and cold) | |
½ cup ice water | |
½ teaspoon salt | |
1 egg washed (1 large egg beat with one tablespoon of milk) | |
Coarse sugar for sprinkling (optional) |
For the Apple Filling:
10 large apples (cored, peeled, and sliced into ¼ inch slices. About 12 cups or 6 lb of apples) | |
½ cup sugar | |
½ cup light brown sugar | |
Juice of one lemon | |
2 teaspoons cinnamon | |
¼ teaspoon nutmeg | |
1 teaspoon salt | |
1 tablespoon unsalted butter |
Preparation
1
In a food processor, combine the flour and ½ teaspoon of salt with a quick pulse.
Add 1 cup of chilled, cubed butter and pulse for about 10 seconds, until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add the ice water and pulse again until the dough begins to come together.
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface, divide it into two portions, and shape each into a large disc.
Wrap each disc securely in plastic wrap and refrigerate for a minimum of one hour.
2
In a large bowl, combine the apple slices, ½ cup of sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well to coat the apples evenly, then let them sit for 15 minutes to marinate.
3
After 15 minutes, drain the apple mixture in a colander to remove any excess liquid. Return the drained apples to the bowl and mix in the light brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon of salt until evenly coated.
4
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Roll out one disc of chilled pie dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough to an 11-inch diameter, 2-inch deep pie dish, gently pressing it into the edges to prevent shrinkage during baking.
5
Spoon the prepared apple filling evenly into the pie crust. Dot the top of the filling with 1 tablespoon of small butter pieces for added richness.
6
Roll out the second disc of chilled pie dough into a 12-inch circle and carefully lay it over the apple filling.
7
Crimp or flute the edges to seal the pie, then cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush the crust with egg wash and, if desired, sprinkle with coarse sugar for a golden, sparkling finish.
8
Cover the edges of the pie with a crust shield or aluminum foil to prevent them from browning too quickly.
9
Place the pie on a large baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven at 425°F for 25 minutes. After 25 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and continue baking for 45–60 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
10
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set properly. Slice, serve, and enjoy your delicious deep-dish apple pie!
Recipe Tips & Suggestions
Pie Shield or Foil:
To prevent the edges of your crust from burning while ensuring the middle gets fully cooked, consider using a pie shield or a strip of aluminum foil around the edge for the first half of the baking time.
Temperature Check:
An oven thermometer can ensure your oven is at the precise temperature required. Oven temperatures can often be inaccurate and this simple tool will help eliminate guesswork.
Taste Test:
Before committing to a large batch of filling, consider doing a small taste test by microwaving a spoonful of your apple mixture. This allows you to adjust sugar or spice levels before it's too late.
Egg Wash:
For that golden, shiny crust, don’t forget to apply an egg wash (one beaten egg mixed with a tablespoon of water) before baking.
Cooling Time:
Resist the urge to cut into your pie immediately. Letting it cool for at least 2-4 hours will allow the filling to set, making for cleaner, more picturesque slices.
Spice it Up:
A pinch of nutmeg or a sprinkle of allspice can add another layer of flavor to your apple filling. If you're feeling adventurous, a splash of bourbon or brandy could also add an unexpected twist.
Storage Smarts:
If by some miracle you have leftovers, storing the pie properly is key. Cover it lightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and it can be stored at room temperature for up to two days or in the fridge for up to four.
Make it A-la-mode:
Serving the pie with vanilla ice cream or homemade whipped cream takes it to the next level, offering a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.