The aroma of apples mingling with cinnamon fills the kitchen as I slice into a freshly baked pie. The sound of the crust cracking slightly under my knife is music to my ears. Just like that, memories flood in moments spent with Grandma, laughing and learning the secrets of her famous apple pie. This pie was more than a dessert; it was a symbol of love, warmth, and family gatherings. Each bite takes me back to those cozy afternoons spent in her kitchen.
Now, as a busy mom in New York City, I find solace in bringing this timeless recipe back to life. It connects me to my roots and offers a delicious way to slow down amidst the hustle of daily life. This Apple Pie by Grandma Ople brings joy not just in its taste but in the cherished memories it evokes.
Why Make This Apple Pie by Grandma Ople
Apple pie has always held a special place in my heart. It exemplifies comfort and nostalgia, and it’s versatile enough to be made for any occasion. Whether it’s the holidays or just a regular Tuesday night, I find that this pie always feels appropriate.
What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and the way it invites everyone to participate in the process. My children love to help peel apples and weave the lattice crust, turning the kitchen into a space of laughter and connection. It makes them feel involved and lets them experience the magic of baking.
In our fast-paced lives, gathering around a homemade pie provides a much-needed break. It encourages conversations, storytelling, and, of course, the joy of sharing good food. This Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is more than just dessert; it’s a tradition that can be passed down to future generations.
Bringing Apple Pie by Grandma Ople to Life
“Every time I stir this pot, it smells just like Sunday at home.”
The kitchen is buzzing with warmth as I get ready to make my beloved apple pie. The first step is preparing my ingredients. There’s something about arranging everything neatly that brings a sense of calm. The vibrant green of Granny Smith apples catches my eye, reminding me of Grandma’s backyard orchard.
Before diving into the ingredients, let’s talk about the cooking process itself. The transformations that occur as I mix the ingredients excite me. I can almost feel the anticipation in the air as the butter melts, the sugars dissolve, and the apples soften in the oven. These small miracles create an explosion of flavor and coziness, wrapping every bite in love and care.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you need to gather for this delightful treat:
- 8 small Granny Smith apples, or as needed
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup white sugar
- 0.5 cup packed brown sugar
- 0.25 cup water
- 1 (9 inch) double-crust pie pastry, thawed
Feel free to use your favorite pie pastry if you prefer a homemade version. If fresh Granny Smith apples aren’t available, you can substitute with other tart apples. Just don’t skimp on the quality; it makes all the difference.
Step-by-Step Directions
- Gather the ingredients. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Peel and core apples, then thinly slice. Set aside.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and stir to form a paste. Cook until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Add both sugars and water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Press one pastry into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Roll out the remaining pastry so it will overhang the pie by about 1/2 inch. Cut pastry into eight 1-inch strips.
- Place sliced apples into the bottom crust, forming a slight mound. Lay four pastry strips vertically and evenly spaced over apples, using longer strips in the center and shorter strips at the edges.
- Create a lattice crust. Fold the first and third strips all the way back so they’re almost falling off the pie. Lay one of the unused strips perpendicularly over the second and fourth strips. Unfold the first and third strips back into their original position.
- Fold the second and fourth vertical strips back. Lay one of the three unused strips perpendicularly over top. Unfold the second and fourth strips back into their original position. Repeat until all strips of pastry are woven together. Trim the excess dough at the edges, and pinch to secure.
- Slowly and gently pour the sugar-butter mixture over the lattice crust, ensuring it seeps over the sliced apples. Brush some onto the lattice, but be careful it doesn’t run off the sides.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and continue baking until apples are soft, about 35 to 45 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy!
This method creates a pie that is both beautiful and packed full of flavor. It’s a process that feels approachable, making it a pleasure to include the kids as they learn the art of baking.
Serving Apple Pie by Grandma Ople at the Family Table
Picture this: the warm pie comes out of the oven, its crust golden brown, and steam rising from the lattice. We gather around the dining table as we slice into the pie, the buttery crust giving way to the soft, fragrant apple filling. The sounds of clinking plates, laughter, and cheerful chatter fill the air, creating an atmosphere that feels like a scene from a cozy movie.
When we serve it, I like to add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Watching the ice cream melt into the warm pie is almost magical, and the delighted faces of my husband and kids make all the effort worthwhile.
Moments like these remind me why I love cooking. It’s more than just making a meal; it’s about bringing loved ones together and creating memories that last a lifetime.
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Storing and Reheating Apple Pie by Grandma Ople
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing the pie properly ensures you can enjoy it again. To store, simply cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3 to 4 days, though I doubt it will last that long with my family around.
To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) for about 10 to 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can use a microwave for a quicker option, just remember to cover it with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out.
One satisfying aspect of this pie is how the flavors deepen overnight. The next day, the spices and sweetness meld perfectly, creating an even more delectable experience. A slice of this pie for breakfast can be a delightful treat, truly one of life’s simple joys.
Quick Tips from My Kitchen
- Use a Mix of Apples: For added depth of flavor, consider mixing Granny Smith apples with sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji. This balance gives the pie a lovely complexity.
- Grate Some Nutmeg: Adding a little freshly grated nutmeg into the filling elevates the flavors and enhances the warmth of the spices.
- Don’t Rush the Melting: When melting the butter, keep the heat medium to avoid burning. You want it to melt slowly and become fragrant without turning brown.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to play around with the spices used. A pinch of ginger or cardamom can give the pie a unique twist.
- Chill Your Dough: If you’re making your own pie crust, ensure you chill the dough before rolling it out. This helps maintain a flaky texture in the finished crust.
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Family Twists on Apple Pie by Grandma Ople
The beauty of this pie lies in its adaptability. While my family loves the classic version, I enjoy experimenting with seasonal twists. Sometimes, I’ll add a handful of cranberries for a tart kick, especially around the holidays.
Other times, I incorporate spices like cinnamon and cloves to evoke the feeling of autumn. I’ve even tried a savory version by adding a bit of cheddar cheese to the crust. Each variation makes for an exciting new experience while still holding onto the essence of Grandma Ople’s recipe.
In the summertime, I might replace some apple filling with sliced peaches or berries, celebrating the local produce available at the farmers’ markets. Each time I bake this pie, I bring in a little bit of creativity while keeping the core tradition intact.
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Apple Pie by Grandma Ople
- Total Time: 80 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A nostalgic and comforting apple pie recipe that brings family together, filled with the aroma of cinnamon and fresh Granny Smith apples.
Ingredients
- 8 small Granny Smith apples, or as needed
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup white sugar
- 0.5 cup packed brown sugar
- 0.25 cup water
- 1 (9 inch) double-crust pie pastry, thawed
Instructions
- Gather the ingredients. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel and core apples, then thinly slice. Set aside.
- Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and stir to form a paste. Cook until fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes.
- Add both sugars and water; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 3 to 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Press one pastry into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan. Roll out the remaining pastry so it will overhang the pie by about 1/2 inch. Cut pastry into eight 1-inch strips.
- Place sliced apples into the bottom crust, forming a slight mound. Lay four pastry strips vertically and evenly spaced over apples.
- Create a lattice crust. Fold the first and third strips back, lay one of the unused strips perpendicularly over the second and fourth strips, then unfold the first and third strips back into position.
- Repeat the lattice weaving process until all strips of pastry are woven together. Trim the excess dough at the edges, and pinch to secure.
- Pour the sugar-butter mixture over the lattice crust and brush some onto the lattice.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking until apples are soft, about 35 to 45 minutes.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
For added depth of flavor, consider mixing Granny Smith apples with sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
FAQs About Apple Pie by Grandma Ople
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! I often prep it in the morning before the kids wake up. It’s easy to finish baking just before dinner, allowing the flavors to stay fresh and saving time later.
What’s the best way to serve it?
Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast of hot pie and cold ice cream creates a delightful experience.
How do I store leftover pie?
Cover it with plastic wrap and refrigerate. It will keep for about 3 to 4 days. Just pop a slice in the oven to reheat for the best flavor.
Can I freeze apple pie?
Yes, you can freeze it. Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will maintain its flavor for about two months.
Are there any tips for a perfect crust?
Chilling your dough helps create a flakier crust. Also, avoid overworking the dough; just mix until combined.
A Final Thought
Every time I share this Apple Pie by Grandma Ople, it brings not just the joy of flavor but a sense of togetherness that is hard to replicate. The kitchen becomes a nurturing space where stories unfold and laughter is shared.
As I watch my children grow, I realize that these moments spent cooking together will be some of their fondest memories. The love put into this pie is a reminder that cooking is not just about feeding our bodies but nourishing our souls and hearts.
So grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and let’s keep this wonderful tradition alive. Cooking is a joy, not a chore, and every pie baked is a moment waiting to be cherished.
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