Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, then you’ve landed at the right place. This Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is not just any pie; it’s a cherished recipe passed down through generations. The sweet, buttery apple slices nestled beneath a beautifully caramelized lattice crust make this pie perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive family gathering. Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll understand why this pie has earned its place in so many hearts!

Nothing says “home” quite like the aroma of freshly baked apple pie wafting through the kitchen. It’s a dessert that brings everyone together, inviting laughter and stories as it cools on the counter. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to make: With straightforward steps and easy-to-find ingredients, baking this pie is a breeze.
• Family favorite: Its delicious flavor appeals to all ages, making it the perfect treat for families and gatherings.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare it in advance and bake it just before serving, saving time on busy days.
• Comforting taste: The combination of tart Granny Smith apples with buttery sweetness creates an irresistible comfort food experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. You probably have many of these items in your pantry already! Here’s what you’ll need to create this fabulous Apple Pie by Grandma Ople:

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

One of the best things about this apple pie recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Add spices: Spice things up by adding cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple filling for extra warmth.
• Use different apples: Swap Granny Smiths for Honeycrisp or Fuji apples if you prefer a sweeter flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend to accommodate dietary needs.
• Top it off: Serve with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or whipped coconut cream for an indulgent twist.

How to Make Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by prepping your workspace with all the ingredients ready to go. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Peel and core those lovely Granny Smith apples, then slice them thinly. Set them aside while we prepare the rest.

Step 2: Create the Filling

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the flour and stir until it forms a paste; this step develops flavor! After about 1-2 minutes, add both sugars and water. Bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat to low, allowing it to simmer for about 3-5 minutes. This mixture will become heavenly when poured over your apples!

Step 3: Prepare the Crust

Press one pastry into a 9-inch pie pan, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides well. Roll out your remaining pastry until it overhangs slightly (about half an inch). Cut this into eight strips—these will create our beautiful lattice top!

Step 4: Assemble Your Pie

Now comes the fun part! Place those sliced apples right into that bottom crust, forming a lovely mound. Lay four strips of pastry vertically across the apples—longer ones in the center and shorter ones at each edge.

Step 5: Weave Your Lattice Crust

To create that stunning lattice look, fold back every other strip (the first and third ones) so they almost fall off the pie. Then lay one of your unused strips across those two remaining strips and unfold everything back into place. Repeat this process with the second and fourth strips until your lattice is complete—trust me; it’ll be worth it!

Step 6: Pour Over That Sweet Mixture

Take that delicious sugar-butter mixture we made earlier and slowly pour it over your lattice crust. Make sure it seeps down into those glorious apple slices but avoid letting it spill off the sides.

Step 7: Bake It Up!

Pop your beautiful creation into that preheated oven for 15 minutes at high heat. Afterward, lower the temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C) and continue baking until those apples are perfectly soft—this should take another 35-45 minutes.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Once it’s out of the oven, allow your pie to cool slightly before slicing into its warm goodness. Serve with love—and maybe some dairy-free ice cream on top for an extra treat! Enjoy every delightful bite of Apple Pie by Grandma Ople!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Making this delightful apple pie can be a breeze with just a few handy tips to elevate your baking game!

• Choose the right apples: Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness and firmness. They hold their shape well during baking and balance perfectly with the sweetness of the sugars.

• Don’t skip the lattice crust: The lattice not only looks beautiful but also allows steam to escape, ensuring your apples cook evenly. Plus, it gives you those lovely caramelized edges that are simply irresistible!

• Let it cool before slicing: Patience is key! Allowing your pie to cool for at least an hour helps the filling set, making it easier to cut clean slices without all the juices spilling out.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to your apple filling for an extra layer of warmth and flavor. These spices complement the sweet apples beautifully and enhance the overall aroma.

• Cover edges if browning too quickly: If you notice the edges of your crust browning faster than the rest, cover them with strips of aluminum foil. This will prevent burning while allowing the rest of the pie to bake perfectly.

How to Serve Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Serving this timeless dessert is just as fun as making it! Elevate your presentation with thoughtful garnishes and side dishes that complement its delicious flavors.

Garnishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A classic pairing! The creamy texture of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm pie, creating a comforting dessert experience.
• Whipped cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a luscious touch that enhances the sweetness of the pie without overpowering it.

Side Dishes

• Cheese platter: Offer a variety of cheeses—like sharp cheddar or creamy brie—to balance out the sweet notes of your pie. The saltiness from cheese creates an exciting contrast that many guests love.

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate and adds a burst of freshness alongside your rich pie.

• Spiced cider: Warm spiced cider is not only festive but also brings cozy flavors that pair wonderfully with apple pie. Its aromatic spices mirror those in your pie, enhancing this autumnal dessert experience.

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

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dessert without stress. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you prefer, refrigerate the pie to extend its freshness for up to a week.
• Before serving, let refrigerated pie sit out at room temperature for about 30 minutes to bring back its delightful flavor.

Freezing

• To freeze the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover it with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
• Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful recipe.

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

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide a nice tartness, you can mix them with sweet varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for added flavor. Just make sure they hold their shape when baked.

How do I ensure my Apple Pie by Grandma Ople has a flaky crust?

For a flaky crust, keep your butter cold and don’t overwork the dough. Also, chilling the pastry before rolling it out can help achieve that perfect texture!

Can I make Apple Pie by Grandma Ople without using butter?

Yes! You can substitute unsalted butter with plant-based margarine or coconut oil. This will give your pie a different texture but still delicious results.

What should I serve with Apple Pie by Grandma Ople?

Vanilla ice cream or whipped coconut cream are perfect accompaniments! They add a creamy contrast to the warm spiced apple filling.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Apple Pie by Grandma Ople! It’s more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of flavors that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether you’re sharing it with family during the holidays or enjoying a slice on a cozy evening, this recipe is sure to delight. Happy baking!