Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

If you’re looking for the quintessential fall dessert, look no further than Apple Pie by Grandma Ople. This recipe has been passed down through generations and holds a special place in my heart. The combination of caramelized lattice crust and sweet buttery apple slices is simply irresistible, making this pie perfect for everything from cozy weeknights to festive family gatherings. There’s something magical about the aroma of baking apples wafting through your home—it instantly brings warmth and nostalgia.

This pie isn’t just delicious; it’s also easy to make, which is why it’s become a family favorite. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, I promise that this recipe will bring a smile to your face and delight everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, this pie comes together quickly!
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone loves a warm slice of apple pie, making it a hit with kids and adults alike.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a Tuesday night, this pie fits right in.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prep the filling ahead of time and assemble it when you’re ready to bake.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of tart apples and sweet caramel sauce creates a heavenly taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple, wholesome ingredients will get you one step closer to enjoying a slice of homemade happiness. Here’s what you need for Apple Pie by Grandma Ople:

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

This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it based on what you have on hand or what flavors you love most. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Add spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for that extra warm flavor.
• Mix in other fruits: Combine apples with pears or cranberries for a delightful twist.
• Try different crusts: Use a graham cracker crust or even a crumb topping instead of a lattice crust.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for those with dietary restrictions.

How to Make Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C). Peel and core the apples before thinly slicing them—this ensures they cook evenly in the pie.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add flour and stir until you form a paste, cooking it until fragrant (about 1-2 minutes). Then add both sugars and water, bringing everything to a boil before reducing heat to simmer for 3-5 minutes. This mixture will create that delicious caramel sauce that seeps into your apples!

Step 3: Assemble the Crust

Press one pastry into the bottom of your 9-inch pie pan, ensuring it covers the sides well. Roll out the remaining pastry so that there’s about half an inch overhang at the edges. Cut this pastry into eight 1-inch strips—this will be used for your beautiful lattice top.

Step 4: Fill with Apples

Now it’s time for those sliced apples! Place them into the bottom crust, forming a slight mound. Lay four pastry strips vertically across the apples, using longer strips in the center and shorter ones at the edges.

Step 5: Create Your Lattice Crust

To weave your lattice crust, fold back every other strip so they’re nearly falling off the pie. Lay one of the unused strips perpendicularly over the middle strips, then unfold those first strips back into place. Repeat this process until all strips are woven together beautifully!

Step 6: Pour Over Mixture

Slowly pour that lovely sugar-butter mixture over your lattice crust, ensuring it seeps between those apple slices. Brush some onto the lattice as well—this makes everything even sweeter!

Step 7: Bake Your Pie

Bake in your preheated oven for 15 minutes before reducing temperature to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Continue baking until your apples are soft—typically around 35-45 minutes.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once it’s done baking and has cooled slightly, slice up your masterpiece! Serve warm with ice cream or whipped topping if desired—enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Making a perfect apple pie can be a breeze with a few helpful tips to ensure your dessert turns out just like Grandma’s!

• Choose the right apples: Using Granny Smith apples adds the ideal tartness that balances the sweetness of the sugars. This combination creates a delicious flavor profile that makes every bite a delight.
• Don’t skip the chilling step: If you’re making your own crust, chill the pastry before rolling it out. This helps maintain its flakiness during baking, ensuring a tender and crisp texture.
• Keep an eye on baking time: Ovens can vary in temperature, so start checking your pie around the 30-minute mark. This ensures you catch it at the perfect moment when the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing your pie to cool for at least 30 minutes after baking helps the filling set. This means cleaner slices and less mess when serving!
• Experiment with spices: While this recipe shines on its own, adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to your apples can enhance their flavor and give your pie that extra warmth that feels like home.

How to Serve Apple Pie by Grandma Ople

Serving Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is all about presentation and those little touches that make it feel special. Here are some ideas to elevate your dessert experience!

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light and creamy contrast to the warm apple pie, enhancing its comforting nature.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice not only looks beautiful but also adds an extra layer of sweetness that pairs perfectly with apples.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A classic pairing! The cold, creamy vanilla ice cream melts slightly when placed on top of warm pie, creating a delightful contrast in temperature and flavor.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad can balance out the richness of the pie. Opt for seasonal fruits like berries or citrus for a pop of color and freshness.
• Cheese platter: A small cheese platter featuring sharp cheddar complements the sweet flavors of apple pie beautifully, bringing an unexpected but delicious twist to your dessert table.
• Coffee or tea: Serve your pie alongside a hot cup of coffee or herbal tea. The warm beverages enhance the cozy atmosphere and bring out the flavors in each bite.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to bake up a storm with this delightful Apple Pie by Grandma Ople! Enjoy every slice surrounded by friends and family.

Make Ahead and Storage

This delightful Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a slice of homemade goodness even on your busiest days. With a little planning, you can savor this comforting dessert whenever the craving strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
• To thaw, place it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
• Remove any plastic wrap and cover with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Apple Pie by Grandma Ople.

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

Yes! While Granny Smith apples are a popular choice due to their tart flavor, you can also mix in Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for added sweetness. Just be sure to balance tart and sweet varieties for the best flavor profile.

How do I ensure my crust is flaky in the Apple Pie by Grandma Ople?

To achieve a flaky crust, keep your butter cold and avoid overworking the dough. Additionally, chilling your crust before baking can help maintain its texture during baking.

Can I make Apple Pie by Grandma Ople without a double-crust pastry?

Absolutely! You can make a single-crust apple pie if you prefer. Just top it with a crumb topping made from flour, oats, brown sugar, and butter instead of a lattice crust.

Final Thoughts

Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is more than just a dessert; it’s a warm hug that brings back fond memories of family gatherings. I hope you enjoy preparing this recipe as much as I do. It’s simple yet incredibly satisfying—perfect for fall celebrations or cozy nights at home. Happy baking, and may each slice bring you joy!