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Classic Apple Pie Recipe

The Classic Apple Pie: A Timeless Dessert

Few recipes are as synonymous with American home cuisine than the humble apple pie. This recipe with olive oil, not only makes this recipe healthier, but also adds an extra dimension to its flavor.

8

1 hour 50 minutes (including 30 minutes resting time)

Ingredients

    For the Crust:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup La Española Classic Olive Oil
  • 6 tbsp cold water
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • For the Filling:

  • 1.3 lbs apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

preparation

  • 1.

    In a stand mixer or large mixing bowl, combine the flour, olive oil, water, salt, and sugar. Mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

  • 2.

    Roll out the chilled dough between two sheets of parchment paper to a thickness of 1/8 inch. Grease a pie dish with La Española Classic Olive Oil and gently place the dough into the dish. Press lightly with your fingers to fit the crust into the edges.

  • 3.

    Trim the excess dough, leaving a 1/2 inch border. Use a fork to prick the base of the crust to prevent it from puffing up during baking. Place the crust in the freezer while preparing the filling.

  • 4.

    Peel, core, and chop the apples into small pieces. Place them in a large bowl and toss with the lemon juice to prevent browning. Add the sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the apples. Mix well with a spatula until the apples are evenly coated.

  • 5.

    Preheat the oven to 350°F. Remove the pie crust from the freezer and pour the apple mixture into it. Spread the filling evenly. Roll out the remaining dough and cut it into strips to create a lattice pattern on top of the pie. Lay the strips over the filling, alternating horizontally and vertically, to form the lattice. Press the edges of the strips into the crust to seal.

  • 6.

    Sprinkle the top of the pie with a light coating of sugar. Bake at 350°F for 50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the top with parchment paper during the last 15–20 minutes of baking.

  • 7.

    Let the pie cool on a wire rack before slicing. Serve on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Why Apple Pie is an Iconic Dessert

Apple pie is a classic dessert beloved in American and global cuisine. Its combination of tender, spiced apples, and a flaky crust evokes warmth, nostalgia, and a sense of home. Traditionally enjoyed during fall and winter holidays, apple pie is a versatile treat that’s perfect for any occasion.

Why Use Olive Oil for the Crust?

Health Benefits of Olive Oil

Swapping butter for La Española Olive Oil in the pie crust makes this dessert a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor:

  • Healthier Fats: Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are heart-healthy and lower in saturated fats compared to butter.
  • Lighter Texture: Olive oil creates a tender, crisp crust with a delicate crumb.
  • Enhanced Flavor: The subtle fruitiness of olive oil pairs beautifully with the spiced apple filling.

Tips for a Perfect Apple Pie

Choosing the Right Apples

For the best results, use a combination of apples to balance sweetness and tartness. Popular choices include:

  • Granny Smith: Tart and firm, perfect for maintaining texture during baking.
  • Honeycrisp: Sweet and juicy, adding a natural sweetness to the pie.
  • Fuji or Braeburn: Mildly sweet and aromatic, ideal for blending with tartar varieties

Don’t Skip Chilling the Dough

Allowing the dough to rest in the refrigerator before rolling out helps the gluten relax, making it easier to handle and less likely to shrink during baking.

Perfecting the Lattice

Creating a lattice crust may seem daunting, but it’s simpler than it looks:

  • Roll out the dough and use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut even strips.
  • Lay half the strips horizontally across the pie and the other half vertically, alternating over and under to create the woven effect.

Customizing Your Apple Pie

Add-Ins for Extra Flavor

  • Raisins or Dried Cranberries: Add a handful to the apple mixture for a touch of sweetness and texture.
  • Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle walnuts or pecans into the filling for added crunch.
  • Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel over the apple filling before adding the lattice for a rich, indulgent twist.

Alternative Spices

While cinnamon and nutmeg are traditional, you can experiment with:

  • Cardamom: Adds a warm, floral note.
  • Ginger: Introduces a subtle, spicy kick.

Storing and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Reheating Tips

Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes to restore the crust’s crispness.

For a quicker option, microwave individual slices for 30 seconds, though the crust may soften slightly.

Pairing Apple Pie with Beverages

Perfect Pairings

Coffee: A warm cup of black coffee or a latte enhances the spices in the pie.

Tea: Chai or spiced herbal teas complement the cinnamon and nutmeg flavors.

Dessert Wine: A sweet Riesling or Moscato pairs wonderfully with the tart and sweet apple filling.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

This Classic Apple Pie recipe balances the nostalgia of a traditional dessert with modern, healthier ingredients. The olive oil crust ensures a light, tender texture, while the perfectly spiced apple filling bursts with flavor in every bite.

Classic American Home Bakes

If you’re someone who enjoys baking up a storm in the kitchen, here are two classic American recipes with a twist. This Chocolate Brownie recipe will please both lovers of traditional chocolate brownies and those who look for nuance in their recipes. Enhanced by the peppery and fruity tasting notes of La Española Extra Virgin Olive Oil, this is certainly one for the foodies.

When we think of wholesome bakes, banana bread often springs to mind. With banana as its core ingredient, it’s no wonder it’s a go-to recipe for many home patissiers. If you’re looking for a recipe that balances its wholesome qualities with a little extra flavor and sweetness, try this Banana Bread with Dark Chocolate Chips.

For more recipe ideas and expert tips, check out our blog.

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