Simple Classic Apple Pie with Brown Sugar Glaze

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust:

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour (preferably unbleached)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed (European-style preferred)
• 6–8 tablespoons ice water

For the Apple Filling:

• 8 cups thinly sliced apples (about 6–8 medium apples; a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp is ideal)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (preferably Ceylon)
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (freshly grated, if possible)
• ⅛ teaspoon ground allspice
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

For the Brown Sugar Glaze:

• ½ cup packed dark brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and granulated sugar.
2. Add the cold cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces.
3. Gradually add the ice water, starting with 6 tablespoons. Mix with a fork just until the dough comes together. Add more water, a tablespoon at a time, if needed.
4. Divide the dough into two equal portions. Shape each into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 2 days).

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, lemon juice, and toss until well coated.
2. Set aside to let the flavors develop while you roll out the crust.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. On a floured surface, roll out one disk of dough to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Transfer the crust to the pan, allowing excess dough to hang over the edges slightly.
3. Pour the apple filling into the crust and dot with the 2 tablespoons of butter.
4. Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the apples. Trim excess dough and crimp the edges to seal. Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
5. Optionally, brush the top crust with a little milk or egg wash for extra shine.

Step 4: Bake the Pie

1. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes.
2. Reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for another 35–45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
3. Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours.

Step 5: Prepare the Brown Sugar Glaze

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, and butter.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly, until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth (about 3–5 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
4. Let the glaze cool slightly before drizzling over the cooled pie.

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Serving Suggestion

Serve slices warm or at room temperature, optionally topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Drizzle extra glaze on individual servings if desired.