Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

If you’re looking for a comforting dessert that warms the heart, look no further than this delightful Apple Pie by Grandma Ople. This recipe has been handed down through generations, and every time I bake it, I feel like I’m sharing a piece of my family history. The sweet aroma of caramelized apples and buttery crust fills the kitchen, drawing everyone in with its inviting scent. It’s perfect for cozy family gatherings, festive holidays, or just a sweet treat after a long day.

What makes this apple pie so special? It’s not just about the delicious flavor; it’s about creating memories with loved ones as you gather around the table to enjoy a slice (or two!). Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this pie is sure to delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have this pie whipped up in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves a classic apple pie! It’s a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and bake it right before serving, making it perfect for busy days.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of tart Granny Smith apples with a buttery crust creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s fall or winter celebrations, this pie fits right in at any gathering!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is part of the fun! You’ll find that these are all simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry.

For the Pie

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

Variations

This recipe is flexible and can be adapted to suit your taste or use what you have on hand! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add Spices: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple filling for extra warmth and flavor.
• Mix Apple Varieties: Combine Granny Smith apples with sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a more complex taste.
• Try Different Crusts: Use a store-bought gluten-free crust if you need to cater to dietary preferences!
• Incorporate Nuts: Sprinkle in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.

How to Make Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather the ingredients first. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Peel and core those beautiful Granny Smith apples, then slice them thinly. Setting them aside will make things easier when you’re ready to assemble the pie.

Step 2: Create the Caramel Sauce

Melt your butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the flour and stir until it forms a paste—this step helps thicken your sauce. Cooking it until fragrant will bring out its nuttiness. Then add both sugars and water; bring everything to a boil. Reducing it to low heat allows those flavors to meld together beautifully as it simmers.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie Crust

Press one pastry into the bottom of your 9-inch pie pan, making sure it goes up the sides too. Roll out the remaining pastry so that it overhangs slightly—this will give you room to create that lovely lattice topping later. Cut this pastry into eight strips; they’ll form your beautiful lattice design!

Step 4: Fill with Apples

Layer those sliced apples into your bottom crust, forming a slight mound; they will cook down as they bake. Now lay four strips of pastry evenly across the top vertically, using longer strips in the center and shorter ones at each edge.

Step 5: Weave Your Lattice Crust

Here comes the fun part! Fold back the first and third strips so they’re almost off the pie plate, then lay one of your unused strips across them perpendicularly. Unfold those first two strips back into place; repeat this process with alternating strips until all are woven together beautifully.

Step 6: Pour Over Caramel Mixture

Gently pour that lovely sugar-butter mixture over your lattice crust, letting it seep down onto those juicy apple slices below. Brush some onto the lattice too—this little touch will help achieve that golden-brown finish.

Step 7: Bake Your Pie

Place your masterpiece in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then reduce your oven temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and continue baking until those apples are soft—about 35 to 45 minutes of heavenly aromas filling your home!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, let your pie cool slightly before serving—it’s hard but trust me! A warm slice topped with dairy-free ice cream is simply divine. Enjoy every bite knowing you’ve created something truly special!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Making apple pie can seem daunting, but with a few handy tips, you can achieve that perfect homemade taste that will impress everyone at your gathering!

• Choose the right apples: Using Granny Smith apples is ideal because their tartness balances the sweetness of the sugars, creating a flavorful filling. You can also mix in some Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for added sweetness and texture.

• Chill your dough: Keeping your pie crust cold before baking helps create that wonderfully flaky texture. If your dough has been sitting out for a while, pop it in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before working with it.

• Don’t overfill: While it’s tempting to pile on those apple slices, avoid overfilling the pie. This ensures the lattice crust holds up and allows steam to escape, preventing a soggy bottom crust.

• Brush with egg wash: For a beautiful golden crust, brush the lattice with an egg wash (1 beaten egg mixed with a tablespoon of water) before baking. This gives your pie that professional finish we all admire.

• Let it cool before serving: Patience pays off! Allowing your pie to cool for at least 2 hours after baking lets the filling set properly, making for cleaner slices and easier serving.

How to Serve Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Serving apple pie is just as important as making it! With a little creativity, you can turn this classic dessert into an impressive centerpiece for any occasion.

Garnishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly with warm apple pie, providing a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling some warm caramel sauce over each slice adds an extra touch of sweetness and sophistication.

Side Dishes

• Whipped cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a lovely touch of sweetness and creaminess to each bite. Consider using coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative!

• Cheddar cheese: A thin slice of sharp cheddar cheese on top of warm apple pie is a classic combination in some regions. The savory flavor complements the sweet apples beautifully.

• Coffee or tea: Serving coffee or herbal tea alongside your apple pie enhances the experience. The warmth and flavors of these beverages make them perfect companions to this delicious dessert.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create unforgettable memories around your Apple Pie by Grandma Ople! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is a fantastic recipe for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time for gatherings or special occasions, and it stores beautifully, so you can enjoy it later!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze before baking if possible.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Remove any plastic wrap or foil from the pie.
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for about 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

If you’re wondering more about this delightful recipe, here are some common questions!

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

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are a classic choice due to their tartness, feel free to mix in sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a unique flavor twist.

How do I prevent my crust from getting soggy with Apple Pie by Grandma Ople?

To prevent a soggy crust, ensure you pre-bake the bottom crust slightly before adding the filling. Additionally, using apple varieties that hold their shape well will help maintain that perfect texture.

Can I make Apple Pie by Grandma Ople gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in both the filling and crust. Just check that your pie pastry is also gluten-free.

What is the best way to serve Apple Pie by Grandma Ople?

For an extra special treat, serve warm slices of this pie with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped coconut cream!

Final Thoughts

Apple Pie by Grandma Ople isn’t just a dessert; it’s a heartwarming slice of nostalgia that brings families together. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday gathering or just because you want something sweet at home, I hope this recipe brings joy to your kitchen. Enjoy every moment of making and sharing this delicious pie, and don’t forget to make it your own! Happy baking!