As summer gently fades into fall, it’s the perfect time to embrace the apple orchard season. In Northern Illinois, this season offers a wonderful opportunity to visit local orchards and pick fresh apples. The crisp air and vibrant foliage make for a delightful family outing. Not only do you get to enjoy the scenic beauty, but you also get to select apples straight from the tree for your homemade apple pie. This tradition of apple picking is more than just a fun activity; it’s a way to connect with the changing seasons and savor the essence of autumn in every bite of your pie.
Best Apples to Use
When it comes to making the perfect apple pie, choosing the right variety of apples is crucial. For a pie that is both tart and sweet, consider using a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples. Granny Smith apples bring a delightful tartness that balances the sweetness of Honeycrisp apples. This combination ensures a flavorful and well-balanced pie. Other good options include Jonathan or Braeburn apples. Avoid using Red Delicious apples, as they tend to become mushy and lack the firmness needed for a great pie filling. By selecting the right apples, you set the foundation for a delicious and satisfying dessert.
Tools You Will Need
- A rolling pin to roll out your pie crust
- A sharp knife or apple corer to prepare the apples
- A mixing bowl for combining your ingredients
- A pie dish, preferably a glass one, will allow you to see the browning crust as it bakes
- A pastry brush to apply an egg wash for a golden finish
- A sharp peeler for peeling the apples.
Ingredients Needed
For the crust you’ll need:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup cold unsalted butter cut into 1 inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- A pinch of salt
- ½ cup ice cold water
For the filling you will need:
- 10 cups (about 3.5 lbs) of peeled, cored, and sliced apples
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
- A dash of nutmeg
- A splash of lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons of flour to thicken the filling (optional)
For the egg wash you will need:
- 1 beaten egg
- 1 tablespoon of milk
These ingredients come together to create a pie that is both sweet and comforting, perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.
How to Make It
Making apple pie is a rewarding experience that combines simple ingredients with a bit of technique.
- Start by preparing the pie crust. Mix the flour, sugar, and salt, then cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add cold water gradually until the dough comes together. Roll out half of the dough and fit it into your pie dish.
- Prepare the apple filling by tossing sliced apples with sugar, spices, and a bit of lemon juice. Fill the crust with the apple mixture.
- Roll out the remaining dough and place it over the filling, crimping the edges to seal. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Mix the egg wash ingredients together. Brush top crust with the egg wash.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
- Let the pie cool before serving to allow the filling to set.
Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of your homemade apple pie with your family!
