Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

If you’re looking for a comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening, then this Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is just what you need. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and it never fails to bring smiles to the table. With its perfectly caramelized lattice crust and sweet, buttery apple filling, it’s become my go-to for fall celebrations and cozy family gatherings alike.

What makes this pie truly special is its simplicity. You can whip it up on a busy weeknight or serve it at holiday feasts. No matter the occasion, this pie promises to be a crowd-pleaser, evoking memories of home and heartwarming moments.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe is straightforward enough for beginners yet delightful enough for seasoned bakers.
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves a classic apple pie! It’s perfect for all ages and pairs wonderfully with ice cream or whipped topping.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dinner, this pie fits right in.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the pie when you’re ready to bake!
• Delicious flavor: The combination of tart Granny Smith apples with rich butter and sugars creates an unforgettable taste experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients is half the fun! Each item plays an important role in creating that beloved flavor and texture we all crave in an apple pie.

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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to put your own spin on Apple Pie by Grandma Ople:

• Add spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra flavor boost.
• Mix up the apples: Try using different varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for varying sweetness.
• Incorporate nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch along with their nutty flavor.
• Try a crumb topping: Instead of the lattice crust, you can top it with a sweet crumb mixture for a different texture.

How to Make Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Gather your ingredients first. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Peel and core the apples before slicing them into thin pieces. This step is important because it ensures even cooking and helps create that soft filling everyone loves!

Step 2: Make the Butter Mixture

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add flour to create a paste; cook until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes). Then stir in both sugars and water, bringing everything to a boil before reducing the heat. Simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened; this mixture will enhance the flavors of your pie.

Step 3: Prepare the Pie Crust

Press one pastry into the bottom of your 9-inch pie pan, making sure it covers the sides well. Roll out your remaining pastry so it hangs over by about half an inch. Cut this into eight equal strips; these will create our beautiful lattice design!

Step 4: Assemble Your Pie

Place those luscious sliced apples into the bottom crust forming a slight mound—this keeps everything nice and juicy while baking! Lay four strips vertically over the apples, spacing them evenly apart.

Step 5: Create Your Lattice Crust

To weave your lattice, fold back every other strip gently so they’re almost falling off the pie. Place one unused strip perpendicularly over what’s left standing, then unfold those strips back into position. Repeat until all strips are woven together beautifully.

Step 6: Pour Over That Delicious Mixture

Gently pour your sugar-butter mix over that lovely lattice crust! Ensure it seeps into those apple slices but don’t let it run off over the edges—this is where all that incredible flavor lives.

Step 7: Bake It Up!

Bake your masterpiece in that preheated oven for 15 minutes before lowering the temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Continue baking until those apples are soft—about 35 to 45 minutes of pure aroma filling your kitchen!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked to perfection, let your Apple Pie cool slightly before slicing into it. Serve warm as-is or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling indulgent! Enjoy every bite with loved ones around you—because that’s what makes this recipe truly special!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Making the perfect apple pie is all about the little details! Here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out just like Grandma Ople’s.

• Use fresh apples: Fresh Granny Smith apples give your pie the right tartness and texture. They hold up well during baking and balance the sweetness of the sugars.
• Chill your pastry: Keeping your pie crust cold before baking helps it maintain its shape and creates a flakier texture. If you have time, chill the rolled-out dough for 15 minutes before assembling.
• Don’t overfill your pie: While it’s tempting to pile on the apples, an overfilled pie can lead to a soggy bottom and spillage. Aim for a slight mound in the center for even cooking.
• Brush with egg wash: For a beautiful golden-brown lattice crust, brush it with an egg wash (a mixture of beaten egg and water) before baking. This gives it a lovely shine and enhances color.
• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing your pie to cool for at least 30 minutes after baking helps set the filling. This way, each slice will hold its shape beautifully!

How to Serve Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Serving your homemade apple pie can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some tasty ideas to elevate your dessert experience.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a rich, creamy texture that complements the warm spices in the pie.
• Cinnamon sugar sprinkle: Dusting a bit of cinnamon sugar on top right before serving gives an extra layer of flavor and a touch of sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: Though traditional, serving a scoop of plant-based vanilla ice cream alongside your warm apple pie creates a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice adds richness and enhances the caramel notes from the filling.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast that balances the sweetness of the pie.
• Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses pairs surprisingly well with apple pie, enhancing flavors while adding an interesting savory element to your dessert table.

Now that you have these serving ideas and pro tips, you’re ready to impress family and friends with this classic Apple Pie by Grandma Ople! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This delightful Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and making your dessert planning a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the pie is completely cooled.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

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

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are a favorite for their tartness, you can mix them with Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for added sweetness and flavor.

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

To prevent a soggy bottom crust, make sure to bake the pie on a lower rack in your oven. You can also pre-bake the crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling.

What if I don’t have double-crust pastry?

You can easily use a store-bought single crust if you’re short on time. Simply top it with a crumble topping made from flour, oats, and brown sugar instead of a lattice crust.

Can I make Apple Pie by Grandma Ople without butter?

Yes! You can substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free version while maintaining that rich flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is not just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create warm memories with loved ones. The combination of sweet apples and a caramelized lattice crust makes it truly special. I hope you enjoy baking this delightful pie as much as my grandma did. Gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some memories together!