Apple pie is a beloved classic dessert that many people enjoy. There’s something about the combination of sweet apples, warm spices, and flaky pastry that just hits the spot. If you’re looking for a recipe that captures the essence of a traditional apple pie, look no further than this old-fashioned apple pie recipe.
This recipe comes from baker AJ Perry, who was the owner of the now-closed Sassafras Bakery in Columbus, Ohio. With three pounds of sweet-tart apples, this pie is truly fruit-forward and perfect for purists who want to taste nothing but the apples with just a hint of spice. The buttery double crust is tender and flaky, providing the perfect vehicle for the delicious apple filling.
When it comes to choosing the best apples for pie, it’s recommended to use a mix of baking apples for varied flavors. Varieties like Pink Lady, Cortland, and Jonathan are all great options with a sweet-tart flavor that works well in apple desserts. Mixing tart apples like Granny Smith with sweet apples like Golden Delicious can also provide a balanced flavor profile. The key is to use apples that are firm and will hold their shape during baking.
While some recipes call for precooking the apples before filling the pie, this recipe keeps things simple. Tossing the apples in sugar and lemon juice allows them to macerate quickly and draw out excess moisture without the need for precooking. The lemon juice also adds a light, bright tartness to the finished pie.
In the Food & Wine Test Kitchen, a few key tips were discovered to ensure the perfect apple pie. Cutting the apples into quarter-inch slices promotes even cooking and easy layering in the pie plate. Using a mandoline for thin, consistent slices is recommended for efficiency and safety. Adding turbinado sugar to the top crust before baking provides a crunchy finish, thanks to its large, chunky crystals. And starting the pie at a high temperature to set the crust before lowering the temperature ensures a beautifully domed top crust and perfectly cooked apples.
If you’re in the mood for a classic, homey dessert, this old-fashioned apple pie recipe is sure to hit the spot. With its focus on the natural sweetness of the apples and simple, comforting flavors, it’s the perfect choice for a traditional Thanksgiving dessert or any time you’re craving a taste of nostalgia.
