Best Spiced Apple Pie Recipe

Introduction to Spiced Apple Pie

Apple pie is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed for generations, with its flaky crust and tender apples complemented by a variety of spices. In this article, we will explore a unique twist on the traditional recipe, incorporating a chipotle kick to add a smoky depth to the filling. This recipe is courtesy of The Pioneer Woman and highlights the importance of precooking the apple filling before assembling the pie.

Ingredients

For the Crust:
–

3 cups

all-purpose flour, plus more if needed
–

1 tsp.

kosher salt
–

1 1/2 sticks

cold salted butter, cut into pieces
–

3/4 cup

cold vegetable shortening, cut into pieces
–

1 large egg

, lightly beaten
–

5 Tbsp.

ice water, plus more if needed
–

1 Tbsp.

distilled white vinegar
–

2 Tbsp.

coarse sugar, for topping
–

1/2 tsp.

ground cinnamon, for topping
–

1/4 tsp.

chipotle chile powder, for topping
– Heavy cream, for brushing

For the Filling:
–

6 Tbsp.

salted butter, cut into pieces
–

3 lb.

Granny Smith apples, peeled and thickly sliced
– Juice of

1 lemon

–

1/3 cup

packed light brown sugar
–

1/3 cup

granulated sugar
–

2 Tbsp.

all-purpose flour
–

1 tsp.

ground cinnamon
–

1/4 tsp.

kosher salt

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Crust

To make the crust, combine the flour and salt in a large bowl. Use a pastry cutter to work in the butter and shortening until the mixture resembles tiny pebbles. Add the beaten egg and stir in the ice water and vinegar until just combined. If the dough is too wet, add a little more flour, or if it’s too crumbly, add a bit more water. Divide the dough in half, flatten into disks, cover each in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Preparing the Apple Filling

In a large nonstick skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples and lemon juice, then sprinkle in the sugars. Cook, tossing occasionally, until the apples start to soften, about 5 minutes. Increase the heat to get the juices bubbling and cook for another minute or until the mixture is glazed. Sprinkle in the flour, cinnamon, and salt. Simmer for about 1 minute until the filling thickens. Remove it to a bowl and let cool.

Step 3: Assembling the Pie

Roll out one of the chilled dough disks on a floured surface into a 13-inch round. Carefully place it into a 9-inch pie plate, pressing it into the corners. Fill with the cooled apple mixture and dot the top with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.

Step 4: Covering the Pie

Roll out the second dough disk into another 13-inch round. Place it over the filling and fold the overhanging dough under itself. Crimp the edges to seal and cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Chill the pie for 30 minutes.

Step 5: Baking the Pie

Preheat the oven by placing a baking sheet on the bottom rack. The oven should be set at 450°F at first. Once the pie is placed on the hot baking sheet, reduce the oven temperature to 375°F. Brush the pie with heavy cream and sprinkle with a mixture of coarse sugar, cinnamon, and chipotle chile powder. Bake for about 1 hour, until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly. If necessary, cover the edges with foil to prevent over-browning.

Tips and Variations

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Chipotle Kick:

The addition of chipotle chile powder adds a smoky heat to the pie. Adjust the amount to your taste preference.
–

Crust Decorations:

Before baking, you can decorate the crust with additional cinnamon or a lattice pattern.
–

Fruit Variations:

Mixing in some tart cranberries or pears can enhance the flavor profile of the apples.
–

Toppings:

Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to balance the spiciness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How do I prevent the pie crust from becoming too brown?

A: To prevent the crust from browning too quickly, cover the edges with foil during baking.

Q: Can I use other types of apples for the filling?

A: While Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness, you can also mix in other varieties like Gala or Honeycrisp for added sweetness.

Q: How long does it take for the pie crust to chill?

A: It’s recommended to chill the pie crust for at least 30 minutes to ensure it holds its shape during rolling and baking.

Conclusion

This spiced apple pie with a chipotle twist offers a unique and delicious spin on the classic dessert. The combination of flaky crust and tender, smoky apples is sure to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a great way to experiment with flavors and create a memorable meal.