As an avid baker and apple pie enthusiast, I’ve spent years perfecting various recipes, but this Easy Apple Pie that melts in your mouth has quickly become my go-to favorite. This delightful dessert combines the rustic charm of homemade baking with an effortless preparation process, resulting in a pie that’s not only incredibly delicious but also surprisingly simple to make. Join me on this culinary journey as we create a dessert that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen and a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
A Brief History of Apple Pie
Apple pie has been a beloved dessert for centuries, with roots tracing back to 14th century England. However, it wasn’t until the 1700s that apple pie became popular in the United States, quickly earning its place as an iconic American dessert. Our Easy Apple Pie recipe puts a modern twist on this classic, focusing on simplicity and letting the natural flavors of the apples shine through.
Ingredients
For this heavenly Easy Apple Pie that melts in your mouth, you’ll need:
- 3 large eggs
- 150 grams (6 tablespoons) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 100 grams (7 tablespoons) unsalted butter, melted
- 100 grams (4.5 tablespoons) plain yogurt
- 240 grams (1.5 cups + 1 tablespoon) all-purpose flour
- 10 grams (2 teaspoons) baking powder
- 5 medium-sized apples, peeled and cut into large pieces
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons peach or apricot jam (for brushing)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Apples
I begin by peeling and cutting four of the apples into large pieces. To prevent browning and add a zesty flavor, I sprinkle them generously with fresh lemon juice. This step not only preserves the apples’ color but also adds a subtle tartness that beautifully complements the sweetness of the pie.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, I crack the eggs and beat them until they’re well blended. Then, I add the sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly frothy. This creates a base that will give our pie a delightful, custardy texture.
Next, I melt the butter and add it to the bowl along with the yogurt. The melted butter adds richness, while the yogurt introduces a subtle tanginess and helps keep the pie moist. I mix these ingredients thoroughly until they’re well integrated.
3. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, I whisk together the flour and baking powder. This ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour, which will help our pie rise evenly and achieve a light, tender crumb.
4. Create the Batter
I gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until I achieve a smooth, homogeneous batter. It’s important not to overmix at this stage, as that could lead to a tough pie.
5. Assemble the Pie
I grease a 9-inch baking dish with a little butter or cooking spray. Then, I pour about two-thirds of the batter into the dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Next, I arrange the apple pieces on top of the batter, creating a generous layer of fruit. Finally, I pour the remaining batter over the apples, ensuring it’s distributed evenly.
6. Bake to Perfection
With my oven preheated to 180°C (360°F), I slide the pie in and let it bake for about 40 minutes. During this time, the kitchen fills with the irresistible aroma of baking apples and vanilla. I know the pie is ready when it turns a beautiful golden brown and has risen significantly.
7. Add the Final Touch
While the pie is still warm from the oven, I brush a thin layer of peach or apricot jam over the top. This not only adds a beautiful glossy finish but also introduces another layer of fruity flavor that complements the apples perfectly.
Nutrition Information
This Easy Apple Pie is a delightful treat. Here’s an approximate breakdown of its nutritional value per serving (based on 8 servings):
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 65mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 25g
- Protein: 5g
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
The Health Benefits of Apples
While this pie is undoubtedly a treat, it does offer some nutritional benefits, primarily from the apples. Apples are rich in antioxidants, particularly quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory properties. They’re also a good source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping to maintain steady blood sugar levels.
Serving Suggestions
This Easy Apple Pie is delicious on its own, but there are several ways to elevate it further:
- Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic à la mode experience.
- Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a light, airy contrast to the dense, fruity pie.
- Pair it with a sharp cheddar cheese for a sweet and savory combination that’s popular in some regions.
- Enjoy it with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
Storage Tips
To keep your Easy Apple Pie fresh, store it covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds, or place the entire pie in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 15 minutes.
Conclusion
Creating this Easy Apple Pie that melts in your mouth is more than just baking; it’s an act of love that brings warmth and comfort to those who enjoy it. The combination of tender apples, custardy filling, and the simplicity of preparation makes this pie a true winner for both novice bakers and seasoned pie-makers alike.
As you pull this golden-brown beauty from the oven and brush it with glossy jam, you’ll understand why this pie is worth every moment spent in the kitchen. The aroma alone is enough to draw everyone to the table, eager for a slice of homemade comfort.
So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and embark on this delightful baking adventure. Whether you’re celebrating the bounty of apple season, looking for an easy yet impressive dessert for guests, or simply craving a comforting sweet treat, this Easy Apple Pie is sure to become a cherished recipe in your baking repertoire. Happy baking, and even happier eating!
