Description
Classic Apple Pie à la Mode is a timeless dessert featuring a flaky, buttery crust filled with a spiced apple mixture made from Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples. Baked to golden perfection and topped with creamy vanilla ice cream, this comforting treat is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Pie Crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 6 to 8 tbsp ice water
Filling
- 6 to 8 cups thinly sliced peeled apples (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are ideal)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 tbsp butter
Finishing
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tbsp milk
- Vanilla ice cream for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare it for the pie baking process.
- Make Pie Dough: In a large bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups flour, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tbsp sugar. Add the chilled, diced butter and blend with a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Form Dough Disks: Stir in ice water one tablespoon at a time until the dough forms a ball. Divide into two disks, one slightly larger, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate while preparing the filling.
- Prepare Apple Filling: In a separate large bowl, toss the thinly sliced peeled apples with 3/4 cup sugar, 2 tbsp flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg until all pieces are evenly coated.
- Roll and Place Bottom Crust: Roll out the larger dough disk on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Transfer it to the pie pan and fill with the apple mixture. Dot the filling evenly with 2 tbsp butter.
- Cover with Top Crust: Roll out the smaller dough disk and cover the apple filling. Trim excess dough and flute the edges to seal. Cut several small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Apply Egg Wash: Beat the egg yolk and milk together in a small bowl, then brush this mixture over the surface of the pie crust for a golden finish.
- Bake Pie: Bake the pie in the preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes. Then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35 to 45 minutes until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving. Best enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for the classic à la mode experience.
Notes
- Use a mix of tart Granny Smith and sweet Honeycrisp apples for balanced flavor and texture.
- Keep the butter cold when making the dough to ensure a flaky crust.
- You can cover the edges of the crust with foil if they brown too quickly during baking.
- Allow the pie to rest before slicing to help the filling set and avoid runny slices.
- Vanilla ice cream is traditional, but feel free to use your favorite flavor.
