Grandma’s Old Fashioned Apple Pie: Simple & Traditional Recipe

Few recipes embody the same level of tradition, old-fashioned charm, and enduring popularity as my grandma’s simple homemade apple pie. It’s a dish that likely everyone has encountered and savored at least once. I hold a deep affection for it, as my grandmother used to prepare it, and occasionally my mother continues the tradition—especially when she has apples from the garden. While they might lack the glossy shine of store-bought ones, they boast the finest quality. In the Czech Republic, beyond the classic apple pie, we also craft various apple buns, rolls, and strudels. These delightful pastries, accentuated by the superb taste of apples, are suitable for any grand occasion or simply as a delightful treat.

Recipe

Ingredients in this recipe

For the Pie Crust

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 8 tablespoons ice water

For the Apple Filling

• 6 cups peeled, cored, and thinly sliced apples (a mix of sweet and tart varieties is best)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1

• In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and granulated sugar.

Step 2

• Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Work the butter into the flour with your fingers until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.

Step 3

• Gradually add ice water one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough is well combined. Be cautious not to overmix.

Step 4

• Divide the dough in half, shape each into a disk, wrap in cling film, and refrigerate for at least 1.5 hours.

Step 5

• Preheat the oven to 425 °F (220 °C).

Step 6

• In a large bowl, combine thinly sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and lemon juice. Stir until the apples are evenly coated and let the mixture sit for 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 7

• On a floured surface, roll out one chilled pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Transfer the crust, trim excess, and spoon the apple filling into it.

Step 8

• Roll out the second pie crust and place it atop the apple filling. Trim off any excess, leaving a slight overhang. Press the edges of the top and bottom crust together to seal. Alternatively, you can cut the second pie crust into wider strips and layer them on top of the pie for an additional decorative touch.

Step 9

• Make slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Optionally, sprinkle sugar for a golden finish.

Step 10

• Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for about 50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

Step 11

• Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.

Step 12

• Serve this homemade grandma’s apple pie with, for example, homemade whipped cream or, in the summer, a scoop of vanilla ice cream. I once tried it with cinnamon ice cream, and it was truly a perfect combination.

Indulge in the timeless delight of Grandma’s Apple Pie – a traditional recipe cherished worldwide. These age-old recipes hold a special place with their soulful essence and enduring appeal. If you find yourself with imperfectly beautiful apples from the garden, fear not! They are precisely what you need for this apple pie recipe. Transform them into a delicious treat to be enjoyed with family or perhaps shared with friends.