YaYa’s Apple Pie
This classic apple pie is the heart of any Southern kitchen. With tender, cinnamon-kissed apples baked inside a flaky, buttery crust, it’s the kind of pie that brings family to the table before you even call them. Sweetened just right and baked until golden, this recipe is the same one Mama Shirley used to make every Thanksgiving and Sunday supper.
Ingredients
- 1 recipe pie pastry enough for top and bottom crusts
- 4 cups thinly sliced apples Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or mixed
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Prepare the pastry: Line a 9-inch pie plate with one crust.
- Fill the pie: Add the sliced apples into the crust. Sprinkle with lemon juice, then sugar evenly over the apples.
- Add butter: Dot small pieces of butter across the top of the filling.
- Top crust: Moisten the edge of the bottom crust with a bit of ice water. Place the top crust over the filling, cutting small slits or a design for steam to escape. Trim to about ⅜ inch beyond the rim of the pie plate.
- Seal and flute: Tuck the edge of the top crust under the bottom crust, press together firmly, and flute the edge.
- Bake: Place the pie in a 325°F oven and bake for 60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Let cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set.
Yaya’s Tips for Success
When making apple pie, fresh apples make all the difference. Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or a mix of sweet and tart for perfect flavor balance. Keep your pastry dough chilled and handle it gently to maintain that beautiful flaky texture.
Tips:
- Slice apples evenly so they cook uniformly.
- Sprinkle a touch of flour or cornstarch over apples if they’re extra juicy.
- Chill your pie crust before baking to prevent shrinkage.
- Brush the top crust lightly with milk or an egg wash for a golden shine.
- Let the pie rest for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow the filling to set.
Yaya’s Customization Ideas
- For a touch of warmth, sprinkle cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of allspice over the apples before sealing the crust.
- If you like a sweeter pie, add a tablespoon of brown sugar for a caramel-like richness.
- You can also use a crumb topping instead of a full pastry top for a rustic version.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a true Southern treat.
Try pairing this with my Homemade Cocoa or Fudge from YaYasCookbook.com for a cozy dessert night!
Yaya’s Original Recipe Card
