Ingredients
Equipment
Method
Prepare the Pie Crust
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.
- Gradually sprinkle in the ice water, mixing gently with a fork until the dough just begins to come together. Divide the dough into two discs (one slightly larger), wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour.
Create the Apple Filling
- In a large bowl, toss the peeled and sliced apples with lemon juice. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the apples and toss to coat evenly.
Assemble and Bake
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the larger dough disc and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Spoon in the apple filling and dot with butter pieces.
- Roll out the second dough disc and cut into ten 1-inch strips. Weave the strips into a lattice pattern over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges.
- Brush the lattice with an egg wash (1 egg whisked with 1 tbsp milk). Sprinkle with a mixture of coarse sugar and cinnamon.
- Bake on a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes. Reduce heat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for another 35-45 minutes, until the crust is deep golden-brown and the filling is bubbly. Let cool completely (at least 4 hours) before slicing.
Notes
Keep Everything Cold: The secret to a flaky crust is cold butter and ice water. If your kitchen is warm, don't hesitate to chill the dough between steps.
Don't Fear the Dark: Bake until the crust is a confident, deep golden-brown for the best flavor and texture. If the edges are browning too quickly, cover them with foil.
The Cooling Period is Non-Negotiable: Slicing into a hot pie will result in a soupy mess. Allowing it to cool completely lets the filling thicken and set for clean, beautiful slices.
Mix Your Apples: Relying on just one type of apple can lead to a one-dimensional or mushy filling. The combination of tart and sweet apples is a game-changer.
Don't Fear the Dark: Bake until the crust is a confident, deep golden-brown for the best flavor and texture. If the edges are browning too quickly, cover them with foil.
The Cooling Period is Non-Negotiable: Slicing into a hot pie will result in a soupy mess. Allowing it to cool completely lets the filling thicken and set for clean, beautiful slices.
Mix Your Apples: Relying on just one type of apple can lead to a one-dimensional or mushy filling. The combination of tart and sweet apples is a game-changer.
