Classic American Apple Pie

This traditional American Apple Pie features a flaky, buttery crust filled with sweet, spiced apples. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the apples, creating a comforting dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this pie is a nostalgic favorite that meets dietary requirements for a classic sweet treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
• 6 to 8 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon butter, to dot
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Stir in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until mixture forms a ball. Divide dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
4. Roll out one dough disc on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Place the crust in the pie pan and fill with sliced apples.
5. In a separate bowl, mix sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Sprinkle over the apples and toss to coat. Dot with butter.
6. Roll out the second dough disc and place over the filling. Seal and flute the edges. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush with beaten egg.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 35 to 45 minutes, or until apples are soft and crust is golden brown.
8. Cool on a wire rack before serving.