To Make An Apple Pie From Scratch Quote
Introduction
"To make an apple pie from scratch, you must first create the universe." This famous quote by Carl Sagan speaks to the complexity and beauty of creating something from nothing. While making an apple pie may not involve creating a universe, it does require a certain level of skill and patience. In this article, we will explore the steps involved in making an apple pie from scratch, including selecting the right ingredients, preparing the crust, and baking the pie to perfection.
Ingredients
The first step in making an apple pie is gathering the necessary ingredients. For the crust, you will need:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/2 cup ice water
For the filling, you will need:
- 6-7 cups thinly sliced apples
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed
Preparing the Crust
The crust is an essential part of any apple pie, and making it from scratch is easier than you might think. To prepare the crust, follow these steps:
- In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Add the chilled butter to the bowl and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together in a ball.
- Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disk, and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before rolling out.
Preparing the Filling
The filling is the star of the show when it comes to apple pie, and getting it just right is crucial. To prepare the filling, follow these steps:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F.
- In a large bowl, mix together the sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust and dot with the cubed butter.
- Roll out the second half of the crust and place it on top of the apple filling. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Tips and Tricks
Making an apple pie from scratch can be a daunting task, but with a few tips and tricks, you can make a pie that is sure to impress. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Choose the right apples. For the best flavor and texture, choose apples that are firm and tart.
- Don't overwork the dough. Overworking the dough can result in a tough crust. Handle it as little as possible.
- Use a pie shield. A pie shield or a piece of aluminum foil can help prevent the crust from burning while the filling cooks.
- Let the pie cool before slicing. Allowing the pie to cool for at least an hour before slicing will help the filling set and make it easier to cut.
Conclusion
There you have it – a step-by-step guide to making an apple pie from scratch. While it may take a little extra effort, the end result is well worth it. So the next time you're in the mood for something sweet and comforting, give this apple pie recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!