Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, then let me share with you my favorite recipe: Apple Pie by Grandma Ople. This pie has been a staple in my family for years, and every time I take a bite, I’m reminded of cozy gatherings and the sweet scent of apples filling the kitchen. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive holiday gathering, this pie is always a perfect choice. With its caramelized lattice crust and buttery apple filling, it truly captures the essence of fall!

The magic of this recipe lies not only in its delicious taste but also in its simplicity. You don’t need to be an expert baker to impress your family and friends with this delightful treat. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this Apple Pie by Grandma Ople.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: This pie comes together quickly, making it perfect for last-minute dessert cravings.
• Family-friendly appeal: Kids and adults alike can’t resist the sweet, buttery flavors of this classic.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a Tuesday night, this pie fits right in.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to enjoy!
• Delicious flavor: The combination of Granny Smith apples with caramelized sugars creates a heavenly taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this comforting Apple Pie by Grandma Ople, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful dessert:

• 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

These ingredients come together beautifully to create a pie that will make your taste buds dance!

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily make adjustments based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
• Mix different apples: Combine Granny Smith with sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp for a more complex taste.
• Include raisins or cranberries: Toss in some dried fruit for added texture and sweetness.
• Try a crumb topping: Instead of a lattice crust, top your pie with a buttery crumb mixture for a different twist.

How to Make Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients on the countertop. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel and core those Granny Smith apples, then thinly slice them—this will help them cook evenly and become tender during baking.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour, stirring until it forms a paste; cooking until it’s fragrant is key here! Next, add both types of sugar along with the water. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens slightly.

Step 3: Prepare the Crust

Press one half of the pie pastry into the bottom and up the sides of your 9-inch pie pan. Roll out the remaining pastry so it has about half an inch overhang. Cut this pastry into eight strips—these will form your beautiful lattice crust!

Step 4: Assemble Your Pie

Place your sliced apples into that lovely bottom crust, forming a slight mound in the center to allow room for any shrinkage during baking. Lay four strips of pastry vertically over the apples, ensuring they are evenly spaced out.

Step 5: Weave Your Lattice Crust

Now comes the fun part—creating that gorgeous lattice! Fold back every other strip so they lay almost off the pie. Place one unused strip perpendicularly across those laid down strips before unfolding them back into place. Repeat this process until all strips are woven together beautifully.

Step 6: Pour Over Your Sweet Mixture

Carefully pour your sugar-butter mixture over the lattice crust, ensuring it seeps into those luscious apple slices below. Brush some onto the lattice itself; just be careful not to let any run off!

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pop that pie into your preheated oven for about 15 minutes before reducing the temperature to 350°F (175°C). Continue baking until those apples are soft—this should take around another 35 to 45 minutes.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked, let your pie cool slightly before slicing into it! Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired—there’s nothing quite like enjoying Apple Pie by Grandma Ople fresh from the oven!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Making an apple pie can be a delightful experience, and these tips will help you create a dessert that even Grandma would be proud of!

• Choose the right apples: Granny Smith apples are perfect for pies due to their tartness, which balances the sweetness of the sugars. You can also mix in some sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for added flavor complexity.

• Don’t skip the lattice crust: A lattice crust not only adds a beautiful presentation but also allows steam to escape while baking, ensuring your filling doesn’t get too watery. Plus, it gives that classic homemade appeal!

• Let it cool: After baking, allow your pie to cool for at least an hour before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes serving easier without losing those lovely apple slices.

• Use a pie shield: To prevent the edges of your crust from burning, place a pie shield or aluminum foil around the edges during baking. This way, you can achieve that golden-brown color without compromising on taste.

• Experiment with spices: While this recipe shines on its own, adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavors even further. Just be careful not to overwhelm the natural sweetness of the apples!

How to Serve Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Serving your delicious apple pie is just as important as making it! Here are some ideas to make your presentation extra special.

Garnishes

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that complements the rich pie perfectly.
• Caramel Drizzle: Adding a drizzle of caramel sauce on top enhances the flavor profile and gives a touch of elegance.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over warm apple pie creates a delightful contrast in temperatures and flavors.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Pairing your pie with creamy vanilla ice cream is a classic choice that adds richness and balances out the tartness of the apples.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can lighten up the meal and provide a colorful presentation alongside your pie.
• Cheese Platter: Offering a small cheese platter with mild cheeses like Brie or Gouda adds an interesting savory element that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the pie.
• Coffee or Tea: Serving your pie with a warm cup of coffee or herbal tea enhances the overall experience, allowing guests to savor each bite while enjoying their beverage.

Now that you’ve got all these tips and serving suggestions, it’s time to gather your loved ones around and dig into this comforting Apple Pie by Grandma Ople! Enjoy every delicious slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This delicious Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance to save time on busy days or to impress guests with a homemade dessert. Here’s how to properly store and reheat your pie.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the pie has cooled fully.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil for extra protection.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.
• For best results, consider slicing before freezing; this allows you to take out individual pieces as needed.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Remove any plastic wrap from the pie and cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes if it’s thawed, or 30-40 minutes if frozen, until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have while making this delightful pie!

What makes Apple Pie by Grandma Ople special?

Apple Pie by Grandma Ople stands out due to its caramelized lattice crust and perfectly spiced apple filling. It’s a family favorite that brings comfort and nostalgia with every bite!

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

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a tart flavor that balances well with sweetness, you can mix in other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for added sweetness and texture.

How do I ensure my crust is flaky for Apple Pie by Grandma Ople?

To achieve a flaky crust, handle the dough as little as possible, keep your butter cold, and avoid overworking the pastry. Chilling the dough before rolling it out can also help!

Can I make Apple Pie by Grandma Ople without refined sugars?

Yes! You can substitute refined sugars with natural sweeteners like maple syrup or coconut sugar. Just adjust the amount based on your preference and sweetness level desired.

Final Thoughts

Making Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is not just about baking; it’s about creating memories filled with warmth and love. This recipe encapsulates the essence of home, making it a perfect treat for any gathering or cozy night in. I hope you find joy in preparing this pie as much as I do. Grab those apples and let your kitchen fill with delightful aromas! Enjoy every slice!