Imagine a dessert that captures the essence of autumn in every single bite - a pie so magical it transports you straight to grandma's kitchen! Mama's Apple Cider Pie isn't just a recipe; it's a nostalgic journey through warm spices, tender apples, and a crust that dreams are made of. Whether you're looking to impress your family or create a show-stopping dessert that will have everyone begging for seconds, this recipe is about to become your new secret weapon in the kitchen.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pie crust
- 4 cups sliced apples
- 1 cup apple cider
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Position a rack in the center of the oven to ensure even baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples with lemon juice, tossing gently to prevent browning and add a bright, fresh flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg to create a uniform spice mixture.
- Pour the dry spice mixture over the apple slices and gently fold to coat each slice evenly, ensuring all apples are well-seasoned.
- Roll out the pie crust and carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, crimping the edges decoratively and trimming any excess dough.
- Pour the apple cider into the pie crust, creating a liquid base that will help develop a rich, deep flavor during baking.
- Add the spiced apple slices to the pie crust, arranging them in an even layer and pressing gently to create a compact filling.
- Dot the top of the apple filling with small pieces of butter, which will melt and create a rich, golden finish.
- Optional: Create a lattice top or cover with a second pie crust, cutting small vents to allow steam to escape.
- Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any potential drips and protect the oven from mess.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling to set and flavors to meld.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic dessert experience.
Tips
- Choose the right apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for the most complex flavor profile.
- Keep apple slices uniform: Cut apples to similar thickness to ensure even cooking and a consistent texture.
- Prevent soggy bottom: Sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs or crushed graham crackers on the bottom crust to absorb excess moisture.
- Cider secret: Use fresh, high-quality apple cider for the most intense apple flavor.
- Crust protection: If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil during baking.
- Cooling is crucial: Always let the pie rest for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling to set properly.
- Serve with love: A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream elevates this pie from delicious to extraordinary!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 52g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
