Have you ever had that magical moment when you slice into a warm apple pie, and the sweet, spiced aroma fills the kitchen? It’s a smell that can take you back to family gatherings, crisp autumn days, and cozy evenings. And what pairs nicely with a slice? A scoop of vanilla ice cream, of course! Or maybe a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Both only enhance the experience, creating a dessert that sings of nostalgia and comfort.
Apple pie is often called America’s favorite dessert for good reason. It’s not just a dish; it’s a tradition, a sweet slice of home, and a staple at any gathering. This apple pie recipe utilizes cornstarch to achieve the perfect filling consistency, ensuring that every slice holds together beautifully without being too runny. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday feast or just because it’s Tuesday, this recipe will not disappoint!
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What is Apple Pie with Cornstarch Recipe?
Apple pie with cornstarch is a classic dessert that uses cornstarch as a thickening agent in the filling, resulting in a slice that won’t fall apart as soon as you cut into it. This ingredient works wonders in balancing the moisture from the apples, creating a texture that’s both rich and satisfying. By combining sweet and tart apples with warm spices, this pie becomes a harmonious blend of flavors that pleases any palate.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
To create this delightful pie, here’s what you will need:
– 3 lbs apples (I recommend 3 large Granny Smith and 3 large Honeycrisp for a perfect balance of tart and sweet)
– 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– ¾ cup + 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, divided
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons cornstarch
– 1 recipe homemade pie dough (for a double crust)
– 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
– Optional ingredients: 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract and 1/4 cup of raisins for added flavor
How to Make This Apple Pie with Cornstarch Recipe?
Making this apple pie is simpler than you might think. With a bit of peeling, mixing, and rolling, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning dessert that’s sure to impress. Let’s get started with the step-by-step directions so you won’t be left scratching your head.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
Start off by peeling, coring, and thinly slicing your apples. If you have a handy gadget like a Johnny apple peeler, it’ll save you some time and effort. Aim for slices that are about 1/4 inch thick to ensure they cook evenly. Once sliced, toss the apples with a teaspoon of lemon juice to enhance their flavor and prevent browning.
Step 2: Make the Apple Pie Filling
In a large bowl, whisk together the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, salt, and ¾ cup of sugar. This fragrant mixture will form the base of your pie filling. Next, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add the sliced apples, followed by the freshly squeezed lemon juice from Step 1. Sprinkle the previously prepared sugar and spice mixture over the apples and gently stir to coat. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, just until the apples soften slightly.
Step 3: Incorporate the Thickening Agents
After the apples have cooked a bit, sprinkle the all-purpose flour and cornstarch over them. Toss everything together until the apples are well-coated. This step is crucial as these ingredients will help absorb some of the juices and keep your pie filling from getting too soupy. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature. If you’re in a hurry, spread it on a baking sheet to cool faster.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
While your filling cools, it’s time to preheat the oven. Place a large baking sheet on the middle rack of your oven and set the temperature to 425°F. Cooking the pie on a hot baking sheet helps the bottom crust stay crispy, which is essential for a great apple pie.
Step 5: Roll Out the Pie Crusts
Remove one portion of your homemade pie dough from the refrigerator. Roll it out until it’s about 12 inches in diameter. Carefully place this rolled dough into a 9-inch pie plate, allowing some excess to hang over the edges. Pop this into the refrigerator while you work on rolling out your second pie crust.
Step 6: Assemble the Pie
Take the pie plate out of the fridge, and gently pour your cooled apple filling into the crust. If you want a classic look, roll out the second piece of dough and place it over the filling. Cut a few slits in the top crust for steam to escape, or go the fancy route with a lattice design. Crimp the edges with your fingers to seal everything in.
Step 7: Brush with Egg Wash
In a small bowl, mix the beaten egg with the tablespoon of milk. This will serve as your egg wash, giving the pie a beautiful golden finish when baked. Lightly brush this mixture over the top crust and sprinkle the remaining tablespoon of sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
Carefully place your assembled pie on the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake at 425°F for the first 20 minutes. After that, reduce the temperature to 375°F and continue baking for another 30 to 40 minutes. You’ll want the filling bubbling and the crust golden brown. Keep an eye on it: if the crust starts to darken too much, simply cover the top with a piece of aluminum foil.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2-3 hours. This cooling time is essential; it allows the filling to set. Trust me—waiting will pay off when you slice into that pie, and it holds its shape beautifully!
Tips & Tricks
– Choose your apples wisely: A mix of sweet and tart varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp offers the best flavor.
– Chill your pie crust: Keeping your dough cold before baking will help achieve a flaky texture.
– Don’t skip the cooling step: Patience here prevents a messy, runny slice.
– Experiment with spices: Feel free to add or adjust spices to suit your taste!
– Use high-quality butter: It really enhances the flavor of the crust and filling.
How Do You Store The Leftovers?
If you have leftover pie (is that even a thing?), store it in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days for maximum freshness, but a slice or two can be revived by a quick warm-up in the microwave.
Nutrition Information
Each slice of this apple pie has approximately 290 calories, featuring a healthy dose of whole fruit and spices while being lower in added sugars than many traditional recipes. Baking this pie with care ensures you can indulge without guilt!
What Sides Would Complement?
– Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing. Creaminess balances the warmth of the pie perfectly.
– Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it gives a delightful contrast to the dense character of the pie.
– Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some over a slice for a decadent twist.
– Cheddar Cheese: A slice of sharp cheddar on the side can add a savory note.
– Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing side that will lighten the meal.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Apple Pie with Cornstarch Recipe?
– Maple Syrup: Substitute half of the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a nuanced sweetness.
– Brown Sugar: Use brown sugar instead of white for a richer flavor.
– Honey: For a natural sweetener, try using honey, adjusting the liquid content slightly.
– Nutmeg: If you don’t have nutmeg, feel free to substitute with extra cinnamon.
– Gluten-Free Flour: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend if you’re catering to dietary needs.
Conclusion
Making apple pie with cornstarch can be a rewarding experience. Not only do you create a delicious dessert that brings smiles to the faces of family and friends, but you also get to carry on a beloved tradition. The blend of sweet apples, warm spices, and a perfectly flaky crust creates a treat that feels like a warm hug. So, roll up your sleeves and get baking—this apple pie recipe is one you’ll cherish and likely share with loved ones for years to come!
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Description
Apple pie is often called America's favorite dessert for good reason. It's not just a dish; it’s a tradition, a sweet slice of home, and a staple at any gathering. This apple pie recipe utilizes cornstarch to achieve the perfect filling consistency, ensuring that every slice holds together beautifully without being too runny. Whether you're preparing it for a holiday feast or just because it’s Tuesday, this recipe will not disappoint!
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
-
Start off by peeling, coring, and thinly slicing your apples. If you have a handy gadget like a Johnny apple peeler, it’ll save you some time and effort. Aim for slices that are about 1/4 inch thick to ensure they cook evenly. Once sliced, toss the apples with a teaspoon of lemon juice to enhance their flavor and prevent browning.
Step 2: Make the Apple Pie Filling
-
In a large bowl, whisk together the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice, salt, and ¾ cup of sugar. This fragrant mixture will form the base of your pie filling. Next, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it's melted, add the sliced apples, followed by the freshly squeezed lemon juice from Step 1. Sprinkle the previously prepared sugar and spice mixture over the apples and gently stir to coat. Let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, just until the apples soften slightly.
Step 3: Incorporate the Thickening Agents
-
After the apples have cooked a bit, sprinkle the all-purpose flour and cornstarch over them. Toss everything together until the apples are well-coated. This step is crucial as these ingredients will help absorb some of the juices and keep your pie filling from getting too soupy. Remove the skillet from the heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature. If you're in a hurry, spread it on a baking sheet to cool faster.
Step 4: Preheat the Oven
-
While your filling cools, it’s time to preheat the oven. Place a large baking sheet on the middle rack of your oven and set the temperature to 425°F. Cooking the pie on a hot baking sheet helps the bottom crust stay crispy, which is essential for a great apple pie.
Step 5: Roll Out the Pie Crusts
-
Remove one portion of your homemade pie dough from the refrigerator. Roll it out until it’s about 12 inches in diameter. Carefully place this rolled dough into a 9-inch pie plate, allowing some excess to hang over the edges. Pop this into the refrigerator while you work on rolling out your second pie crust.
Step 6: Assemble the Pie
-
Take the pie plate out of the fridge, and gently pour your cooled apple filling into the crust. If you want a classic look, roll out the second piece of dough and place it over the filling. Cut a few slits in the top crust for steam to escape, or go the fancy route with a lattice design. Crimp the edges with your fingers to seal everything in.
Step 7: Brush with Egg Wash
-
In a small bowl, mix the beaten egg with the tablespoon of milk. This will serve as your egg wash, giving the pie a beautiful golden finish when baked. Lightly brush this mixture over the top crust and sprinkle the remaining tablespoon of sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection
-
Carefully place your assembled pie on the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake at 425°F for the first 20 minutes. After that, reduce the temperature to 375°F and continue baking for another 30 to 40 minutes. You’ll want the filling bubbling and the crust golden brown. Keep an eye on it: if the crust starts to darken too much, simply cover the top with a piece of aluminum foil.
Step 9: Cool and Serve
-
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely on a wire rack for at least 2-3 hours. This cooling time is essential; it allows the filling to set. Trust me—waiting will pay off when you slice into that pie, and it holds its shape beautifully!
Note
- Choose your apples wisely: A mix of sweet and tart varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp offers the best flavor.
- Chill your pie crust: Keeping your dough cold before baking will help achieve a flaky texture.
- Don’t skip the cooling step: Patience here prevents a messy, runny slice.
- Experiment with spices: Feel free to add or adjust spices to suit your taste!
- Use high-quality butter: It really enhances the flavor of the crust and filling.
