Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food that brings everyone to the table, you’ve landed in the right place! This Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is not just any pie; it’s a cherished recipe that has warmed hearts and filled homes with sweet aroma. Each bite transports you back to cozy family gatherings and laughter shared over a slice of warm pie. Perfect for fall evenings or holiday celebrations, this pie is sure to become a favorite in your home too.

What makes this recipe even more special is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dessert that feels like a warm hug. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive occasion, this apple pie is an easy way to spread joy and make memories.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this pie comes together quickly!
• Family-approved: Everyone loves apple pie! It’s the perfect dessert for kids and adults alike.
• Make ahead option: You can prepare it in advance and bake it when you’re ready, making entertaining stress-free.
• Deliciously comforting: The combination of caramelized apples and buttery crust creates an irresistible flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients will have you on your way to baking this delightful Apple Pie by Grandma Ople. They’re staples you might already have in your kitchen!

For the Pie 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 classic recipe is flexible and allows for fun variations! Feel free to experiment based on what you have at home or what flavors your family loves best.

• Add spices: Boost the flavor with cinnamon or nutmeg for that extra warmth.
• Swap the apples: Try using a mix of different apple varieties for unique tastes.
• Mix in berries: Add blueberries or raspberries for a twist on the traditional filling.
• Change up the crust: Use a graham cracker crust for a no-bake version that’s still delicious!

How to Make Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Start by gathering all your ingredients and preheating your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Peel, core, and thinly slice those Granny Smith apples. Setting them aside will help keep them fresh while you prepare the rest of your pie.

Step 2: Create the Sweet Sauce

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and stir until it becomes fragrant—this should take about 1 to 2 minutes. Then, add both sugars and water, bringing everything to a boil before reducing heat to simmer. This step creates a deliciously sweet sauce that will soak into those apple slices as they bake.

Step 3: Assemble the Crust

Press one pastry into the bottom of your 9-inch pie pan, making sure it goes up the sides too. Roll out your remaining pastry so it hangs over about 1/2 inch past the edge of the pan, then cut it into strips. This preparation sets up for that beautiful lattice top we all love.

Step 4: Fill with Apples

Place those sliced apples into your bottom crust, forming a lovely mound—don’t worry if they overflow slightly; they’ll cook down beautifully! Lay four strips of pastry vertically across them evenly spaced apart.

Step 5: Weave the Lattice Top

Now it’s time for some fun! Fold back every other strip of pastry so they’re nearly falling off the pie. Lay one unused strip across perpendicularly and unfold those vertical strips back into place. Repeat this folding technique until all strips are woven together into a stunning lattice.

Step 6: Pour Over Saucy Goodness

Gently pour that sweet butter-sugar mixture over your lattice crust—let it seep down onto those apple slices below! Just be careful not to let it run off the edges. Brush some over the lattice too for added flavor.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide your beautiful creation into the preheated oven for 15 minutes at high heat before reducing it to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Continue baking until those apples are soft—this usually takes about 35 to 45 minutes but keep an eye on it!

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once baked perfectly golden brown, let your pie cool slightly before slicing it up! Serve warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream if desired—and watch everyone smile as they enjoy each bite of this delightful Apple Pie by Grandma Ople!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Making the perfect apple pie is all in the details, and I’m here to help you get it just right!

• Choose the right apples: Opting for Granny Smith apples ensures a delightful tartness that balances the sweetness of the sugars. They hold their shape well during baking, giving you that perfect apple texture.

• Chill your pastry: Keeping your pie crust chilled before baking helps it maintain its shape and achieve a flaky texture. A cold crust prevents melting butter from seeping out too early, resulting in a better rise.

• Don’t skip the lattice: The lattice crust not only looks beautiful but also allows steam to escape while baking. This helps prevent the filling from getting too watery and ensures a perfectly baked pie.

• Cool before slicing: Letting your pie cool for at least an hour before serving helps the filling set up nicely. If you slice it too soon, you’ll risk having a messy presentation!

• Experiment with spices: While this recipe is delicious as-is, feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple filling for extra warmth and flavor. These spices are classic pairings with apples and can elevate your pie even further.

How to Serve Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Serving this delicious apple pie is just as important as making it! Here are some creative ideas to present this comforting dessert.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that complements the rich flavors of the pie beautifully.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel over each slice will enhance the dessert’s sweetness and provide an elegant finish.
• Ice cream: A scoop of vanilla or dairy-free ice cream adds a creamy contrast to the warm apple pie, making every bite even more indulgent!

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: This classic pairing creates a delightful temperature contrast when served alongside warm apple pie. The melting ice cream seeps into the pie’s luscious filling for an extra special treat.

• Cheddar cheese: In some regions, pairing apple pie with sharp cheddar cheese is traditional. The savory flavor of the cheese beautifully offsets the sweetness of the apples.

• Fresh fruit salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad balances out the richness of the pie. Consider using seasonal fruits like berries or citrus for added brightness.

• Coffee or tea: Serving warm drinks like coffee or herbal tea alongside your dessert can enhance the overall experience, providing warmth and comfort as you savor each bite.

Enjoy creating this delightful Apple Pie by Grandma Ople—it’s bound to be a hit at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Whether you’re planning for a special occasion or just want a delightful dessert ready to go, here’s how to keep it fresh.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap.
• Then, wrap it again in aluminum foil or place it in an airtight container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Remove any plastic wrap and cover the pie loosely with aluminum foil.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through; remove the foil for the last 5 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious dessert!

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

Yes, while Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness, you can also use Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn apples for a sweeter flavor profile.

How do I make the crust crispier in my Apple Pie by Grandma Ople?

To achieve a crispier crust, try baking the pie on a preheated baking sheet. This helps distribute heat evenly and gives the bottom crust that perfect crunch!

What should I serve with Apple Pie by Grandma Ople?

Serving this pie with vanilla ice cream or whipped topping makes for a delightful pairing. You can also consider serving it warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top!

Final Thoughts

This Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is not just a recipe; it’s a warm embrace from childhood memories. Each slice offers a comforting blend of sweet apples and buttery crust that’s bound to bring smiles around your table. I hope you enjoy making this lovely pie as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to share your own twists and stories—happy baking!