Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

If you’re looking for a comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! This Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is not just any apple pie; it’s a cherished recipe that has been passed down through generations. The moment you take a bite, you’ll be transported to cozy family gatherings and autumn afternoons. With its caramelized lattice crust and sweet, buttery apple filling, this pie is perfect for everything from busy weeknights to festive holiday celebrations.

What makes this recipe so special is its simplicity. You don’t need any fancy ingredients or complicated techniques—just pure love and a desire to share something delicious with those you care about.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe guides you step-by-step, making it approachable for everyone.
• Family Favorite: Rich flavors and a delightful aroma will have your loved ones asking for seconds (and thirds!).
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a Tuesday night, this pie fits right in.
• Endless Customization: Feel free to play around with spices or add other fruits if you want to mix things up!
• A Slice of Nostalgia: Each bite brings back memories of grandma’s kitchen, filled with laughter and love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Each one plays an important role in creating that perfect apple pie experience!

For the 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

The beauty of this Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is its flexibility! You can mix and match flavors and ingredients to make it your own.

• Add Some Spice: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth.
• Mix in Berries: Toss in some fresh blueberries or raspberries with the apples for a fruity twist.
• Crispy Topping: Instead of a lattice crust, try adding a crumb topping made from oats and brown sugar.
• Try Other Apples: Experiment with different varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for varied sweetness.

How to Make Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

Gather your ingredients first! Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Peel and core the apples, then slice them thinly. This step is crucial because evenly sliced apples cook uniformly, ensuring every bite is perfectly tender.

Step 2: Make the Filling

Melt the butter over medium heat in a saucepan. Add flour and stir until it forms a paste; cooking it just long enough releases that lovely buttery aroma. Then add both sugars and water, bringing this mixture to a boil before reducing heat to simmer for about 3-5 minutes. This sauce will create that rich flavor we all love!

Step 3: Assemble the Crust

Press one pastry into the bottom of your 9-inch pie pan. Roll out the second pastry so it hangs over by about half an inch on each side—this will help seal in all that delicious filling later! Cut this pastry into strips for your lattice crust.

Step 4: Add the Apples

Place your sliced apples into the bottom crust, forming a gentle mound at the center—this gives your pie height and makes it visually appealing! Now lay four vertical strips of pastry over the apples.

Step 5: Weave Your Lattice Crust

Here comes the fun part! Fold back alternate strips of pastry and lay one perpendicular strip across them. Unfold those strips back into position. Repeat this weaving pattern until all your strips are used up. This technique not only looks beautiful but also allows steam to escape while baking!

Step 6: Pour on the Sauce

Carefully pour your prepared sugar-butter mixture over the lattice crust, allowing it to seep down onto those luscious apple slices below. Don’t forget to brush some onto the lattice itself—this helps achieve that golden-brown color!

Step 7: Bake Away

Pop your pie in the preheated oven for 15 minutes before lowering the temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Continue baking until those apples become soft and fragrant—about 35-45 minutes more.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Once baked, let your pie cool slightly before slicing into it (if you can resist!). Serve up generous pieces and watch as smiles light up around your table.

With every slice of Apple Pie by Grandma Ople, you’re not just enjoying dessert; you’re creating memories!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Making the perfect apple pie is an art that anyone can master with a few helpful tips. Here are some tried-and-true suggestions to elevate your baking experience!

• Use fresh apples: Fresh Granny Smith apples provide the best balance of sweetness and tartness, creating a delightful flavor profile in your pie.

• Chill your pastry: Keeping your pie crust chilled before baking helps maintain its flakiness, ensuring a perfectly baked lattice that doesn’t become soggy.

• Don’t overfill the pie: While it’s tempting to pile on the apples, overfilling can lead to a messy spill during baking. Aim for a slight mound in the center rather than overflowing.

• Brush with butter: Brushing the lattice crust with melted butter before baking adds a beautiful golden color and enhances flavor, making each slice irresistible.

• Let it cool: Allowing your pie to cool for at least an hour after baking allows the filling to set properly. This way, you’ll have neat slices instead of a soupy mess when serving.

How to Serve Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Serving apple pie is just as important as baking it! Presenting this classic dessert beautifully can make any occasion feel extra special.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream on top adds a creamy contrast to the warm, spiced apples.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of ground cinnamon over the crust or filling enhances the warm flavors of fall.
• Vanilla ice cream: Serve a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside each slice for a delightful melty experience that complements the warm pie.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, nuts, and a light vinaigrette pairs well with the sweetness of apple pie and balances out your meal.
• Cheese platter: Offer a selection of cheeses like sharp cheddar or creamy Brie that can be enjoyed alongside apple slices as an appetizer or side dish.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots or Brussels sprouts add a savory element that contrasts nicely with dessert.
• Pumpkin soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup can create a cozy fall dinner atmosphere, complementing the flavors found in your apple pie.

With these serving ideas and pro tips in hand, you’re all set to impress friends and family with your homemade Apple Pie by Grandma Ople! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment, making it a great addition to your dessert rotation.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Label the wrapping with the date for easy reference.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, freeze before baking.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Remove any plastic wrap from the pie.
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
• Heat in the oven for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Have questions about this delightful recipe? Here are some common inquiries!

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

Yes! While Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness, you can also mix in sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for added flavor.

How do I prevent my Apple Pie by Grandma Ople from getting soggy?

To prevent a soggy crust, make sure to bake it at a high temperature initially. Also, avoid overfilling with apples, and ensure they are evenly distributed.

What makes this Apple Pie by Grandma Ople special?

This recipe is special due to its unique caramelized lattice crust that adds depth and flavor while keeping the apple filling perfectly sweet and buttery.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Replace unsalted butter with a plant-based butter alternative, and ensure your pie pastry is vegan-friendly.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Apple Pie by Grandma Ople! It’s more than just a dessert; it’s an experience filled with warmth and nostalgia. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a slice all on your own, this pie is sure to bring smiles. Happy baking!