Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

If you’re looking for a dessert that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, then you’ve come to the right place with this Apple Pie by Grandma Ople. This recipe has been cherished through generations, bringing smiles at family gatherings and cozy fall evenings alike. There’s something magical about the aroma of sweet apples mingling with buttery pastry that just feels like home. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive holiday celebration, this pie has a way of making every occasion feel special.

What makes this apple pie truly beloved is not just its delightful taste but also the perfect blend of simplicity and comfort. With just a few wholesome ingredients, you can create a dessert that impresses everyone at the table. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this pie!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Follow: The steps are simple enough for even novice bakers, ensuring success on your first try.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves apple pie! It’s a hit with both kids and adults, making it perfect for family gatherings.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet Granny Smith apples and caramelized sugars creates a mouth-watering flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the pie in advance and bake it just before serving, saving time on busy days.
• Beautiful Presentation: The lattice crust not only looks stunning but also allows the delicious filling to peek through.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this heartwarming Apple Pie by Grandma Ople, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients. These are likely pantry staples that come together beautifully to create an unforgettable dessert.

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 recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with different flavors or textures to suit your taste buds.

• Add spices: Sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg into the apple filling for an extra layer of warmth and spice.
• Change up the apples: Try using Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a different sweetness.
• Incorporate nuts: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the apple mixture for a delightful crunch.
• Use a crumb topping: Instead of a lattice crust, top your pie with a buttery crumb topping for a delicious twist.

How to Make Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients before starting. Preheating the oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C) sets the stage for creating that perfectly flaky crust. Peel and core your apples before slicing them thinly; this ensures they cook evenly in the oven.

Step 2: Create the Sauce

Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat until it’s bubbly and fragrant. Adding flour creates a roux that thickens your sauce, making it rich and delicious. Incorporating both sugars and water brings everything together into a sweet caramel sauce that will coat those beautiful apple slices.

Step 3: Assemble Your Pie

Press one pastry into your pie pan—this is where all that tasty filling will go! Roll out the second pastry slightly larger so it can hang over the edges when we create our lovely lattice top later on.

Step 4: Layer Those Apples

Place your sliced apples into the bottom crust in a nice mound; they will soften while baking and fill out beautifully. Lay down four strips of dough over your mound—this is where your lattice takes shape!

Step 5: Weave Your Lattice

Start weaving by folding back strips alternately; this technique allows you to create that classic lattice look while letting steam escape during baking. Don’t worry if it doesn’t look perfect—each pie is unique!

Step 6: Pour Over That Delicious Sauce

Gently pour your sugar-butter mixture over your lattice crust, letting it soak into those sliced apples below. A little brushing on top adds flavor without risking spills.

Step 7: Bake Away!

Place your pie in the oven for 15 minutes at high heat, then lower it down to finish baking until those apples are soft and tender—this takes about 35 to 45 minutes more.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Once baked to perfection, let your pie cool slightly before slicing into it. Serve warm with ice cream or simply enjoy on its own—it’s delicious either way!

I hope you enjoy making this Apple Pie by Grandma Ople as much as I do! It’s sure to become a favorite in your home too!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Making the perfect apple pie is all about the details, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate this classic dessert to new heights!

• Choose the right apples: Using Granny Smith apples adds a tartness that balances out the sweetness of the sugars. This combination ensures each bite is perfectly flavored.

• Don’t skip the lattice crust: The lattice not only looks beautiful but also allows steam to escape while baking, preventing a soggy bottom crust. Plus, it adds an extra layer of texture to enjoy!

• Let your pie cool before serving: Allowing the pie to cool for at least an hour sets the filling, making it easier to slice and serve. Warm apple pie is delicious, but you want those slices to hold their shape!

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple filling for an added depth of flavor. These warm spices enhance the overall taste and bring that cozy fall essence.

• Use a pie shield: If your crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with a pie shield or aluminum foil during baking. This prevents burning while allowing the filling to cook thoroughly.

How to Serve Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Serving your homemade apple pie can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ideas on how to present this charming dessert.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of light whipped coconut cream provides a dairy-free alternative that complements the pie’s sweetness beautifully.
• Cinnamon sugar sprinkle: Dusting a bit of cinnamon sugar over each slice enhances flavor and adds visual appeal.
• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of mint not only brightens up your plate but also offers a refreshing contrast to the warm flavors of apple pie.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A classic pairing! The creaminess of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast with warm apple pie, making each bite indulgent.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over individual slices adds richness and extra sweetness that many will love.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich flavors of the pie.
• Cheese platter: For something different, serve your pie alongside a small cheese platter featuring sharp cheddar. The savory notes from cheese complement sweet desserts beautifully.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Apple Pie by Grandma Ople will surely impress family and friends alike! Enjoy this timeless dessert and create lasting memories around your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is not only a delightful treat for any occasion but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it so that you always have a delicious dessert on hand.

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; it will last about 4-5 days in the fridge.
• Cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out.

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. Just be sure to label it with the date!
• Thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Place the pie in the oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• If reheating from frozen, allow an additional 10-15 minutes for heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

What makes Apple Pie by Grandma Ople special?

Apple Pie by Grandma Ople stands out due to its caramelized lattice crust and perfectly spiced apple filling, making it a beloved dessert for gatherings and holidays.

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

Yes! While Granny Smith apples are recommended for their tartness, you can mix in other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for added sweetness and flavor contrast.

How do I ensure my lattice crust is perfect for Apple Pie by Grandma Ople?

To create a beautiful lattice crust, remember to roll your dough evenly and use strips of equal size. Practice makes perfect, so don’t hesitate to try again if your first attempt isn’t flawless!

Is Apple Pie by Grandma Ople suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! This pie freezes well when wrapped properly. Just make sure to thaw it before reheating for the best results.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this wonderful Apple Pie by Grandma Ople as much as I do! This recipe brings together family traditions and comforting flavors that fill your home with warmth. Whether it’s a cozy fall evening or a festive holiday gathering, this pie is sure to impress everyone at your table. Give it a try, and savor every delightful bite!