Grandma’s Homemade Apple Pie

### 🍏 **Grandma’s Homemade Apple Pie** 🥧

Nothing beats the comforting aroma of a freshly baked apple pie, especially one that comes straight from Grandma’s kitchen. This classic **Grandma’s Homemade Apple Pie** is a family favorite, combining sweet and tart apples with warm spices, all encased in a flaky crust. Whether enjoyed as a dessert for a special occasion or as a comforting treat any time of year, this recipe is sure to bring back fond memories.

—

### **Ingredients:**

– **6 cups apples** (peeled, cored, and sliced) 🍏
– A mix of tart and sweet apples works best; consider using Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a balanced flavor.

– **1/2 cup sugar** 🍬
– Adjust according to the sweetness of your apples.

– **1/4 cup brown sugar** 🍬
– Brown sugar adds a rich, caramel-like flavor that complements the apples beautifully.

– **1 tsp ground cinnamon** 🌱
– A warm spice that enhances the natural sweetness of the apples.

– **1/4 tsp ground nutmeg** 🌰
– Adds depth and warmth; use fresh nutmeg for the best flavor.

– **2 tbsp flour** 🌾
– Helps thicken the apple filling as it bakes.

– **1 tbsp lemon juice** 🍋
– Brightens the flavors and prevents the apples from browning.

– **2 ready-made pie crusts** 🥧
– Store-bought for convenience or homemade if you prefer.

– **1 egg (beaten)** 🥚
– For brushing on the crust to achieve a golden finish.

—

### **Instructions:**

#### 1. **Preheat the Oven:**
– Preheat your oven to **425°F (220°C)**. This high temperature helps to create a crisp crust while baking the apples perfectly.

#### 2. **Prepare the Apple Filling:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the **peeled and sliced apples** with **sugar**, **brown sugar**, **ground cinnamon**, **nutmeg**, **flour**, and **lemon juice**.
– Toss until the apples are evenly coated with the mixture. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the apples to release some juice.

#### 3. **Assemble the Pie:**
– Roll out one of the **pie crusts** and fit it into a **9-inch pie dish**, making sure to press it into the corners.
– Pour the **apple mixture** into the crust, spreading it evenly.
– Roll out the second pie crust and carefully place it over the apple filling.
– Seal the edges by crimping them with your fingers or a fork.

#### 4. **Create Vents:**
– Using a sharp knife, cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking. You can make a simple lattice pattern or just a few diagonal cuts.

#### 5. **Add the Finishing Touch:**
– Brush the top crust with the **beaten egg**. This will give your pie a beautiful golden-brown color as it bakes.

#### 6. **Bake the Pie:**
– Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for **45-50 minutes**, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
– If the edges of the crust start to brown too quickly, you can cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

#### 7. **Cool and Serve:**
– Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least **30 minutes** before slicing. This allows the filling to set up a bit, making it easier to serve.

—

### **Prep & Nutritional Info:**

– **Prep Time:** 20 minutes
– **Total Time:** 1 hour 10 minutes
– **Servings:** 8 slices
– **Calories:** Approximately 300-350 kcal per slice (calories may vary based on specific ingredients and crust used).

—

### **Serving Suggestions:**

– Serve your **Grandma’s Homemade Apple Pie** warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for an extra treat.

– Pair it with a cup of hot cider or coffee for a delightful dessert experience.

—

### **Tips for Success:**

– **Apple Selection:**
– Use a mix of sweet and tart apples to achieve the best flavor. Avoid mushy varieties like Red Delicious.

– **Spice Variations:**
– Feel free to add additional spices such as allspice or cloves for a different flavor profile.

– **Make-Ahead:**
– You can prepare the pie filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake.

– **Storage:**
– Leftover pie can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or frozen for longer storage. To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.

—

### **Final Thoughts:**

This **Grandma’s Homemade Apple Pie** recipe is a timeless classic that captures the essence of comfort and nostalgia. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a slice of cherished memories. Enjoy the process of baking and savor every bite of this delicious pie that’s sure to become a staple in your home, just like Grandma’s! 🍏🥧✨