All-American Apple Pie

All-American Apple Pie Recipe - A Classic Dessert From USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 50-55 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

The All-American Apple Pie is a classic dessert that embodies the essence of American tradition and comfort food. This timeless recipe brings together the sweet and tart flavors of apples with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, all encased in a flaky, buttery crust. Perfect for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to a simple family dinner, this apple pie recipe is sure to delight everyone who tries it.

History

Apple pie has been a beloved dessert in America for centuries, with its origins tracing back to the early European settlers. These settlers brought with them recipes for apple pies, which were adapted over time to include local ingredients and suit new tastes. The All-American Apple Pie as we know it today has evolved from these early recipes, becoming a symbol of American culture and hospitality.

Ingredients

0.25 cup of sugar
3 tbsp of all purpose flour
0.25 tsp of ground cinnamon
0.25 tsp of ground nutmeg
4 large red delicious apples, cored, peeled, and sliced
2 tbsp of melted butter
1 tsp of vanilla extract
1 (15 oz (425 g)) package of folded refrigerated pie crusts

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
In a large bowl, combine the sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg; mix well.
Add the apples and toss to coat completely.
Pour the apple mixture into a 9-inch pie plate.
Combine the butter and vanilla and pour over the apples, covering the apples with the pie crust.
Spray the crust with non-stick cooking spray and bake for 50 – 55 minutes.

Variations

Consider adding a handful of raisins, cranberries, or walnuts to the apple mixture for added texture and flavor. For a twist, try using a crumble topping instead of a top crust.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure your All-American Apple Pie turns out perfectly, consider the following tips and tricks:

- Use a mix of apple varieties for a more complex flavor.

- Chill the pie crust before rolling it out to make it easier to handle and prevent shrinking during baking.

- Brush the top crust with an egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water) before baking for a golden, glossy finish.

- Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to let the filling set.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the All-American Apple Pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special dessert. A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg on top can also enhance the flavors.

Cooking Techniques

For a flakier crust, try using a combination of butter and shortening in the pie dough. Additionally, baking the pie on a lower oven rack can help ensure the bottom crust cooks thoroughly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're out of ground cinnamon or nutmeg, allspice makes a good substitute. For a healthier version, you can replace the sugar with an equal amount of a sugar substitute like stevia.

Make Ahead Tips

The pie crust can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. The apple filling can also be prepared a day in advance and kept refrigerated until ready to assemble and bake.

Presentation Ideas

For an elegant presentation, garnish each slice with a mint leaf or a thin apple slice. Serving the pie on a decorative plate or pie stand can also add to the visual appeal.

Pairing Recommendations

A cup of hot coffee or tea complements the flavors of the All-American Apple Pie perfectly. For a more indulgent pairing, consider a glass of dessert wine or a scoop of cinnamon ice cream.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover apple pie can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a 350°F (177°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of this apple pie contains approximately 290 calories. The calories come from a combination of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Carbohydrates

A single serving of All-American Apple Pie contains approximately 58 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbohydrates come from the apples and the flour used in the crust.

Fats

This apple pie recipe contains about 10 grams of fat per serving, with the primary sources being the butter in the crust and the filling. Opting for a lower-fat butter substitute can reduce the fat content if desired.

Proteins

Each serving of All-American Apple Pie provides around 2 grams of protein, mainly from the flour and butter in the crust.

Vitamins and minerals

Apples are a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. This pie also contains small amounts of calcium and iron, primarily from the flour and apples.

Alergens

The primary allergens in this recipe are wheat (from the flour) and dairy (from the butter). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should take caution.

Summary

Overall, the All-American Apple Pie is a delicious dessert that provides energy primarily through carbohydrates and fats, with modest amounts of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It's a treat best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Summary

The All-American Apple Pie is a cherished recipe that combines the simple, comforting flavors of apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a flaky crust. With its rich history and versatility, this pie is a testament to the enduring appeal of homemade desserts. Whether you're a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this recipe offers the opportunity to create a truly special treat that embodies the spirit of American cuisine.

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for All-American Apple Pie. It was a brisk autumn day, the leaves were falling in a beautiful array of reds, oranges, and yellows. I had just finished visiting the local farmer's market and had picked up a bushel of crisp, juicy apples. As I walked home, the smell of cinnamon and nutmeg filled the air, and I knew I had to make something special with those apples.

I had always loved baking, but apple pie had never been my forte. I had tried countless recipes in the past, but none of them ever seemed to capture that perfect balance of sweet and tart that I was looking for. But as I sifted through my old recipe box that day, I stumbled upon a worn, yellowed index card with the words "All-American Apple Pie" scrawled across the top in faded ink.

I couldn't remember where I had gotten the recipe from, but something about it called out to me. Maybe it was the simplicity of the ingredients, or the detailed instructions that promised a perfect pie every time. Whatever it was, I knew I had to give it a try.

I gathered all the ingredients listed on the card - flour, sugar, butter, apples, and a variety of spices - and set to work in my cozy kitchen. As I peeled and sliced the apples, the familiar smell of cinnamon and nutmeg filled the air once again, and I felt a sense of calm wash over me.

I followed the instructions carefully, mixing the flour and sugar together to create the perfect crust, and layering the sliced apples on top with a sprinkle of spices. As I placed the pie in the oven to bake, the anticipation grew. Would this be the recipe I had been searching for all these years?

After what felt like an eternity, the timer buzzed, and I carefully pulled the pie out of the oven. The crust was golden brown and flaky, and the apples were bubbling with sweet juices. I couldn't resist taking a bite right then and there, and as the warm, comforting flavors filled my mouth, I knew I had found the perfect All-American Apple Pie recipe.

From that day on, I made that pie recipe countless times, tweaking it here and there to suit my tastes. I shared it with friends and family, who all raved about its deliciousness. It became a staple at every gathering, a symbol of warmth and comfort that brought people together.

Over the years, I've added my own touches to the recipe, incorporating different types of apples for a unique flavor, or experimenting with different spices to create a new twist. But no matter how many variations I try, that original All-American Apple Pie recipe will always hold a special place in my heart.

As I sit here now, with a slice of warm pie in front of me and the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg wafting through the air, I can't help but smile. That simple, yellowed index card has brought me so much joy over the years, and I am forever grateful for the moment I stumbled upon it all those years ago. So here's to good food, good memories, and the perfect recipe for All-American Apple Pie.