Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

If you’re looking for a dessert that fills your home with warmth and nostalgia, you’ve come to the right place! This Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is not just any apple pie; it’s a cherished recipe passed down through generations. Imagine the inviting aroma of cinnamon and sweet apples filling the air as this pie bakes in your oven. Perfect for family gatherings, cozy fall evenings, or even just a treat for yourself, this pie has a way of bringing everyone together.

What makes this recipe extra special is its simple yet delightful combination of flavors. The caramelized lattice crust perfectly complements the buttery sweetness of the apples, creating a slice of comfort that everyone will love. Trust me, once you take the first bite, you’ll understand why this apple pie is a favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can whip this up with confidence.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves a classic apple pie! It’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a Sunday dinner, this pie fits in beautifully.
• Make-ahead option: You can prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to enjoy!
• Delicious flavor: The blend of tart Granny Smith apples and sweet caramel sauce is simply irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe calls for simple, wholesome items that you may already have at home. The magic lies in how these ingredients come together to create something truly special.

For the Filling

• 8 small Granny Smith apples, or as needed
• 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

For the Crust

• 1 (9 inch) double-crust pie pastry, thawed

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add some spice: Toss in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor.
• Try different apples: While Granny Smiths are fantastic, feel free to mix in Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for added sweetness.
• Make it crumbly: For a different texture, sprinkle some oat crumble on top instead of a lattice crust.
• Incorporate dried fruit: Add raisins or cranberries for a delightful twist on traditional flavors.

How to Make Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Gather all your ingredients and preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Start by peeling and coring your Granny Smith apples before slicing them thinly. This step is essential because it ensures that your apples cook evenly in the oven. Set those beautiful slices aside while we make our delicious filling!

Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt your unsalted butter. Once melted, add flour and stir until it forms a paste—this should only take about 1-2 minutes. Next, add both sugars and water, bringing everything to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This caramel sauce adds that irresistible sweetness to your apple filling!

Step 3: Assemble the Pie Crust

Press one pastry into the bottom and up the sides of your 9-inch pie pan. Roll out the remaining pastry so it hangs over about half an inch on each side and cut it into eight 1-inch strips. This will create our lovely lattice top later on!

Step 4: Fill with Apples

Now comes the fun part! Place those sliced apples into your prepared bottom crust, creating a slight mound in the center for added presentation. Lay four pastry strips vertically across your apples—longer strips should go in the center while shorter ones will be at the edges.

Step 5: Weave Your Lattice Crust

To create that beautiful lattice crust, fold back every other strip so they’re almost falling off the pie. Lay one of your unused strips perpendicularly over what remains upright, then unfold those folded strips back into place. Repeat this process until you’ve woven all your strips together beautifully! Don’t forget to trim any excess dough at the edges.

Step 6: Pour on the Sauce

Slowly pour that luscious sugar-butter mixture over your lattice crust, making sure it seeps down into those apple slices below—this step really enhances flavor! Brush some onto the lattice itself but be careful not to let it run off.

Step 7: Bake Your Pie

Bake in your preheated oven for about 15 minutes before reducing the temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Continue baking until those wonderful apples are soft—this usually takes around 35-45 minutes.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked to perfection, let your pie cool slightly before serving. It’s best enjoyed warm with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or just on its own! Grab a slice and share it with loved ones—you’ll be amazed at how quickly it disappears!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Making apple pie can be a delightful experience, especially with a few helpful tips to ensure your dessert turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right apples: Using Granny Smith apples not only provides a delicious tartness but also holds up well during baking, giving you that ideal texture.

• Don’t rush the butter mixture: Taking the time to melt the butter and mix it with the sugars until bubbly ensures that the flavors meld beautifully, creating a caramel-like finish over your apples.

• Crust care is key: When preparing your lattice crust, make sure to keep your pastry cold. A chilly crust bakes up flakier and crisper, lending to that perfect bite.

• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing your pie to rest for at least an hour after baking helps the filling set up nicely, making for cleaner slices when serving.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to your apple filling for an extra layer of warmth and flavor that complements the sweet apples beautifully.

How to Serve Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Serving apple pie can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to present this classic dessert in style.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the rich pie.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice brings an indulgent touch that pairs perfectly with the apple filling.
• Cinnamon sugar: Sprinkling a bit of cinnamon sugar on top enhances both presentation and flavor, making each bite even more delightful.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with hot apple pie, creating a comforting bite.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits balances the richness of the pie and adds a burst of color to your plate.
• Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses, such as brie or gouda, provides a savory complement that contrasts with the sweetness of the pie.
• Coffee or tea: Serving warm beverages like coffee or herbal tea alongside your pie creates a cozy atmosphere, perfect for fall gatherings or holiday celebrations.

Now you’re all set to enjoy Grandma Ople’s delicious apple pie! Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is not just a delightful dessert for immediate enjoyment; it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and making your gatherings even easier.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, slice individual pieces and place them in an airtight container for easy access.

Freezing

• Ensure the pie is fully cooled.
• Wrap the entire pie tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil for added protection.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Alternatively, you can freeze sliced pieces in airtight containers.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• If reheating a whole pie, place it directly on the oven rack and warm for about 15-20 minutes.
• For individual slices, place them on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this comforting dessert.

Can I use different types of apples for Apple Pie by Grandma Ople?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness, feel free to mix in other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter flavor profile. Just ensure they hold their shape when baked.

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

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Additionally, be sure to use a gluten-free pie crust as well.

What makes this Apple Pie by Grandma Ople so special?

This recipe shines due to its caramelized lattice crust and perfectly spiced apple filling. It combines classic techniques with a touch of love that brings warmth to any gathering!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Apple Pie by Grandma Ople becomes a cherished recipe in your kitchen just as it has been in mine. It’s more than just dessert; it’s a reminder of shared moments and warmth during the holidays. Enjoy the process of making it, and don’t hesitate to invite friends or family into your kitchen to share in the fun. Happy baking!