Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

This Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of fall with its caramelized lattice crust and sweet, buttery apple filling. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners, this pie offers a comforting taste that evokes nostalgia and warmth. Its unique combination of Granny Smith apples and a rich buttery sauce makes it a standout treat that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Delicious Flavor: The caramelized crust paired with sweet apple slices creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile for Occasions: Ideal for holidays, birthdays, or as a cozy weeknight dessert.
• Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of creating a classic dessert from scratch using fresh ingredients.
• Family Favorite: This pie is sure to be loved by both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make the perfect Apple Pie by Grandma Ople, having the right tools on hand can make all the difference in your baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pie pan
• Saucepan
• Rolling pin
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Pie pan: A sturdy pie pan ensures even baking and helps maintain the shape of your pie.
• Saucepan: A good-quality saucepan is essential for melting butter and creating the delicious apple filling.
• Rolling pin: This tool helps roll out pastry dough evenly, making it easier to create a beautiful lattice crust.

Ingredients

To recreate this delectable pie, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Apple Filling

• 8 small Granny Smith apples, or as needed

For the Crust and Sauce

• 0.5 cup unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 0.5 cup white sugar
• 0.5 cup packed brown sugar
• 0.25 cup water
• 1 (9 inch) double-crust pie pastry, thawed

How to Make Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Gather all ingredients before starting. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Peel and core the apples, then slice them thinly. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat:
1. Melt unsalted butter.
2. Add all-purpose flour, stirring to form a paste; cook until fragrant (about 1 to 2 minutes).
3. Mix in both sugars (white sugar and brown sugar) along with water. Bring this mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes before removing from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie Crust

1. Press one pastry into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie pan.
2. Roll out the remaining pastry so that it overhangs by about 1/2 inch.
3. Cut this pastry into eight 1-inch strips.

Step 4: Fill with Apples

Place sliced apples into the bottom crust, forming a slight mound. Lay four strips of pastry vertically over the apples, spacing them evenly.

Step 5: Create Lattice Top

To weave your lattice:
1. Fold back every first and third strip almost falling off.
2. Lay one unused strip perpendicularly over the second and fourth strips.
3. Unfold back to original position.
4. Repeat this process until all strips are woven together.

Step 6: Pour Sugar-Butter Mixture

Gently pour your sugar-butter mixture over the lattice crust ensuring it seeps onto sliced apples without running off.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for:
– First 15 minutes at 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).
– Reduce temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and continue baking until apples are soft (about 35 to 45 minutes).

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, let it cool slightly before slicing into pieces. Serve warm with your favorite topping!

How to Serve Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Serving Apple Pie by Grandma Ople can elevate your dessert experience. Whether it’s a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, there are many delightful ways to enjoy this classic treat.

Pair with Ice Cream

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture complements the warm pie perfectly.
• Caramel swirl: Drizzle caramel sauce over vanilla ice cream for a sweet contrast.
• Cinnamon ice cream: Adds an extra layer of flavor that enhances the apple filling.

Serve with Whipped Cream

• Fresh whipped cream: Light and airy topping that balances the pie’s richness.
• Flavored whipped cream: Try adding vanilla or cinnamon for a unique twist.

Accompany with Coffee or Tea

• Black coffee: The bitterness of coffee cuts through the sweetness of the pie.
• Herbal tea: A warm cup of chamomile or peppermint tea offers a soothing pairing.

Add Nuts for Crunch

• Chopped pecans: Sprinkle over slices for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
• Toasted almonds: Adds a delightful crunch and complements the apple filling.

Create a Dessert Platter

• Mini tarts: Include small fruit tarts alongside slices of apple pie for variety.
• Chocolate-covered strawberries: Provide a sweet contrast to the apple flavors.

How to Perfect Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Perfecting Apple Pie by Grandma Ople involves attention to detail and some key techniques. Follow these tips to ensure your pie is always delicious.

• Choose the right apples: Granny Smith apples offer the perfect tartness that balances well with sweetness.
• Avoid overmixing pastry: Gently combine ingredients to keep your crust flaky and light.
• Use cold butter: Cold butter helps create layers in your crust, resulting in a flaky texture.
• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing the pie to cool helps set the filling, making it easier to slice and serve.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Pairing side dishes with Apple Pie by Grandma Ople can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this dessert nicely.

1. Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses pairs well with sweet desserts, balancing flavors beautifully.
2. Salad with nuts: A fresh green salad topped with walnuts adds crunch and contrasts well with the sweetness of the pie.
3. Roasted vegetables: Seasoned roasted carrots or Brussels sprouts provide savory depth to your meal.
4. Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes serve as a hearty side that complements any meal, including dessert.
5. Fruit salad: A light fruit salad can refresh the palate after enjoying rich apple pie.
6. Bread rolls: Soft bread rolls can be served warm, providing a comforting addition to your dinner table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Apple Pie by Grandma Ople, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some common pitfalls.

• Using the Wrong Apples: Not all apples are created equal. Choose Granny Smith apples for their tartness and firmness, ensuring a balanced flavor and texture.
• Overworking the Dough: Handling the pastry too much can make it tough. Mix just until combined and avoid excessive kneading.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at incorrect temperatures can ruin the crust. Start at a high temperature for the initial bake, then lower it as directed for even cooking.
• Skipping the Lattice Technique: Not creating a lattice crust can lead to uneven cooking of the apples. Take your time to weave the strips for better presentation and texture.
• Not Allowing to Cool: Cutting into the pie immediately after baking can lead to a mushy filling. Let it cool for at least 2 hours before serving for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

• Wrap whole or sliced pie tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-60 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm slowly for about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Apple Pie by Grandma Ople.

How do I prevent my apple pie from being soggy?

Using a double-crust pastry helps, but also ensure your apples are not overly wet before placing them in the crust. A brief pre-cooking of the apples can help remove excess moisture.

Can I use different types of apples in this recipe?

Yes! While Granny Smith is preferred, you can mix them with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for added sweetness and complexity.

How do I make Apple Pie by Grandma Ople gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking.

Can I add spices to my Apple Pie by Grandma Ople?

Absolutely! Adding cinnamon or nutmeg enhances the flavor profile beautifully. Just sprinkle them over the apple slices before adding the lattice top.

Final Thoughts

Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is not only delicious but also versatile. Feel free to customize it with different apples or spices according to your taste preferences. This classic dessert is perfect for any occasion, so give it a try!