Fall Apple Pie with Maple and Cinnamon

This delightful Fall Apple Pie combines the classic flavors of sweet, tart apples with a hint of maple syrup and warm cinnamon, creating a comforting dessert that evokes the essence of autumn. The flaky crust, made from scratch, complements the tender apple filling perfectly, making it a beloved addition to any holiday table. This recipe respects traditional culinary principles while adding a creative twist that enhances the natural flavors of the apples.

Ingredients:

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

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the mixture forms a ball. Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one disc of dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie plate. Place the crust in the pie plate and trim the edges.
3. In another bowl, toss the sliced apples with maple syrup, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch until evenly coated.
4. Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust. Dot with diced butter.
5. Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal, and cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Brush the mixture over the crust.
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 the apples are soft and the crust is golden brown.
8. Cool on a wire rack before serving.