Apple Pie with Brown Sugar and Cinnamon: A Rustic Dessert Delight

Apple pie is a timeless dessert cherished for its comforting flavors and aromatic spices. This recipe combines the sweetness of brown sugar with the warmth of cinnamon to create a pie that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Whether you're baking for a family gathering, a festive holiday, or simply to satisfy your sweet tooth, this guide ensures your apple pie will be a resounding success.

Ingredients for Apple Pie

For the Pie Crust:

• 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 6-8 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:

• 6 medium apples (a mix of sweet and tart varieties, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
• ¾ cup (150g) brown sugar
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Topping:

• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar, for sprinkling

Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowls
• Pastry blender or food processor
• Rolling pin
• 9-inch pie dish
• Vegetable peeler
• Whisk
• Fork

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Incorporate Butter: Using a pastry blender or food processor, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. Avoid overworking the dough.
4. Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two discs, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

1. Peel and Slice Apples: Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Aim for uniform slices to ensure even cooking.
2. Mix Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

1. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, gently pressing it into the edges.
2. Add Filling: Spoon the apple filling into the crust, spreading it evenly.
3. Top with Second Crust: Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal.
4. Decorate and Vent: Use a fork or knife to create decorative patterns on the crust and cut small slits for ventilation.

Step 4: Bake the Pie

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Brush and Sprinkle: Lightly brush the top crust with milk and sprinkle with brown sugar for a golden, caramelized finish.
3. Bake: Place the pie on the center rack and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
4. Cool: Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours to set the filling before slicing.

Tips for the Perfect Pie

• Choose the Right Apples: A mix of sweet and tart apples adds depth of flavor.
• Avoid Soggy Crusts: Sprinkle a thin layer of flour or breadcrumbs on the bottom crust before adding the filling.
• Refrigerate Dough: Chilling the dough prevents shrinkage and ensures a flaky crust.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your apple pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. For a cozy drink pairing, consider a hot cup of tea or cider.

Variations to Try

• Caramel Apple Pie: Drizzle caramel sauce over the filling before sealing the crust.
• Crumb Topping: Replace the top crust with a buttery crumble made from flour, sugar, and oats.
• Spiced Pear Pie: Swap apples for pears and add ginger for a unique twist.

Conclusion

This apple pie with brown sugar and cinnamon is a delightful blend of classic flavors and rustic charm. By following this recipe, you'll create a dessert that not only tastes incredible but also fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of baked apples and spices.

Enjoy your baking adventure!