Cinnamon Sugar Apple Pie: A Sweet and Comforting Dessert
Looking for the ultimate comforting dessert? This cinnamon sugar apple pie is your answer. With a flaky crust, tender apple filling, and a crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping, it’s a timeless treat perfect for family gatherings or holiday dinners. Follow this easy recipe to create a dessert that’s guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and thinly sliced
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
- Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 3: Make the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
- Roll out the chilled pie crust on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the crust to the dish and trim the edges.
- Pour the apple filling into the crust, spreading it out evenly.
- In a small bowl, mix together the sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle the mixture generously over the apple filling.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
- Place the pie on the center rack of the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- If the edges of the crust brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil during baking.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the pie to cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce.
Tips for the Best Apple Pie
- Use Firm Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples hold their shape during baking and add a balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Chill the Dough: Keeping the crust dough cold ensures a flaky texture.
- Customize the Topping: Add a sprinkle of coarse sugar for extra crunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic Flavors: The combination of cinnamon, sugar, and apples is timeless and comforting.
- Perfectly Textured Crust: The flaky, buttery crust pairs perfectly with the tender apple filling.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and clear steps, this recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
Make It Today!
This cinnamon sugar apple pie is the perfect way to bring warmth and sweetness to your table. Whether for a holiday feast or a casual dessert, this pie is guaranteed to impress. Try it today and let us know how it turned out in the comments below. Happy baking!