Apple Pie with Cinnamon Crust is a classic dessert that combines the warm, comforting flavors of spiced apples with a delightful cinnamon-infused crust. This pie is perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply enjoying a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Its aromatic spices and buttery crust make it a beloved favorite!

Ingredients List

For the Cinnamon Crust

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 6-8 tablespoons ice water

For the Apple Filling

• 6-8 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, peeled, cored, and sliced)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (diced)

For Egg Wash (Optional)

• 1 large egg (beaten)
• 1 tablespoon milk

Timing

Preparing Apple Pie with Cinnamon Crust takes about 30 minutes for prep, 45-50 minutes for baking, plus chilling time for the crust, totaling approximately 2-3 hours.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Cinnamon Crust

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cinnamon, and sugar.
2. Cut in Butter: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Ice Water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overmix.
4. Chill Dough: Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. Slice Apples: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Toss until the apples are evenly coated. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

1. Roll Out Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to fit your pie dish (about 12 inches in diameter). Place it in the bottom of the pie dish and trim any excess dough hanging over the edges.
2. Add Filling: Pour the apple filling into the crust, spreading it evenly. Dot the filling with the diced butter.
3. Top Crust: Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the filling. You can either cut slits for a lattice top or simply cover it with a whole crust. Trim and crimp the edges to seal.
4. Egg Wash: If desired, brush the top crust with the beaten egg mixed with milk for a golden finish.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

1. Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
2. Cool: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Step 6: Serve

1. Enjoy: Serve your Apple Pie with Cinnamon Crust warm or at room temperature, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Apple Pie with Cinnamon Crust (per slice, assuming 8 slices):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	300
Protein	2g
Fat	15g
Carbohydrates	40g
Fiber	3g

Tips for Customization

• Apple Varieties: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a more complex flavor. Good combinations include Granny Smith, Fuji, and Honeycrisp.
• Spice Variations: Add a pinch of cardamom or allspice for extra warmth.
• Crust Alternatives: For a different crust flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of brown sugar to the crust mixture.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Apple Pie with Cinnamon Crust can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, cover and refrigerate for up to 5 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to wrap it tightly.

Conclusion

With its flaky cinnamon crust and deliciously spiced apple filling, Apple Pie with Cinnamon Crust is a comforting dessert that evokes the warmth of home and family gatherings. Enjoy this classic treat any time of the year!

FAQs

Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Yes! The dough can be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

What can I do if I don’t have enough apples?

You can supplement with other fruits, such as pears or berries, to make a mixed fruit pie.

Can I serve this pie warm?

Absolutely! Warm apple pie is delicious, especially when paired with ice cream.