Classic American Apple Pie

Apple pie is the quintessential American dessert, embodying the flavors and traditions of the United States. With its flaky, buttery crust and sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple filling, this pie is a favorite for holidays, family gatherings, and celebrations. Often enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, apple pie is a symbol of home and comfort. This recipe will guide you through the steps to create a classic American apple pie that is sure to delight your family and friends.

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes
• 1/4 cup ice water
• 6-7 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and granulated sugar. Add the chilled butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough begins to come together. Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape into disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
3. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
4. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, flour, and lemon juice. Toss to coat the apples evenly.
5. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish, leaving a slight overhang. Transfer the dough to the pie dish.
6. Pour the apple filling into the crust, spreading it out evenly. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.
7. Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the apple filling. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal. Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
8. Brush the top crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
9. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
10. Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.