Mom’s Old-Fashioned Flat Apple Pie

Nothing says home quite like the aroma of a freshly baked apple pie wafting through the kitchen. “Mom’s Old-Fashioned Flat Apple Pie” is an homage to classic simplicity, combining the best of tender, caramelized apples with a beautifully golden, flaky crust.

This flat apple pie stands out with its rustic charm, easy-to-assemble crust, and a juicy filling spiced to perfection. It’s a delightful, no-fuss pie that captures the essence of homemade goodness, just like Mom used to make.

Let’s dive into this heartfelt recipe that blends nostalgia with timeless flavor, and is sure to bring comfort and joy to your table.

Ingredients :

For the Dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, diced
• ¼ to ½ cup ice water

For the Apple Filling:

• 5 medium-sized apples (a mix of tart and sweet, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, for a caramel-like depth)
• 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch or all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted

For the Finishing Touch:

• 1 egg, beaten (for brushing)
• 1 tablespoon turbinado sugar or granulated sugar (optional, for extra crunch)

Instructions :

1. Prepare the Dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold, diced butter and use a pastry cutter (or your fingers) to incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Slowly drizzle in the ice water, starting with ¼ cup. Mix just until the dough begins to come together. Add more water, a tablespoon at a time, if needed.
3. Divide the dough in half, shape each portion into a flat disc, and wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Apple Filling:

1. Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. Place them in a large bowl.
2. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Drizzle the lemon juice over the mixture and gently toss until the apples are well coated.
3. Set the apple mixture aside for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sugar to draw out some of the apples’ natural juices.

3. Roll Out the Dough and Assemble the Pie:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Take one disc of dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle or oval, approximately 12×14 inches. Transfer the rolled dough to the prepared baking sheet.
3. Spoon the apple mixture onto the center of the dough, leaving about a 1-2 inch border around the edges. Dot the filling with small pieces of the melted butter.
4. Roll out the second disc of dough and carefully place it over the apple filling. Gently press the edges together and fold them inward to seal.

4. Add the Finishing Touches:

1. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg, then sprinkle turbinado sugar over it for a delightful crunch and shimmer.
2. Use a knife to make a few small slits on top to allow steam to escape as it bakes.

5. Bake and Serve:

1. Place the pie in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly and fragrant.
2. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing.

Tips for a Perfect Flat Apple Pie

• Apple Variety Matters: Mixing different types of apples, such as Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness, provides a balanced flavor and prevents the filling from becoming too mushy.
• Dough Tips: If you find your dough sticking to the rolling pin, dust it lightly with flour. Keep your butter cold until the last minute for the flakiest results.
• Preventing a Soggy Bottom: Allowing the apple filling to rest for a few minutes before adding it to the crust will reduce excess moisture, helping to avoid a soggy crust.
• Make It Your Own: For a unique touch, add a dash of allspice or ginger to the filling for a little warmth, or drizzle the top with a simple glaze after baking for extra sweetness.

Conclusion:

Mom’s Old-Fashioned Flat Apple Pie is not just a dessert; it’s a nostalgic journey to simpler times when the kitchen was filled with the aroma of warm spices and sweet, baked apples. This flat apple pie has a way of drawing people in, gathering loved ones around the table, and inviting them to share in a timeless tradition. Every slice offers a comforting combination of tender apples and a buttery, flaky crust that can brighten any day.

Enjoying this pie is like embracing a piece of the past while celebrating the present. Serve it warm alongside a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream, a drizzle of caramel, or even a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent touch. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a hug, bringing people together with each delicious bite. Whether you’re enjoying it at the end of a family meal, sharing it with friends over coffee, or simply treating yourself to a quiet moment of sweet simplicity, this apple pie is sure to become a beloved part of your baking repertoire.

So go ahead, create this slice of joy, and savor the experience of baking and sharing something truly special. With each bite, you’re not only honoring a classic recipe but also adding to the warmth and happiness of your own cherished memories.

Source of the picture : justapinch