New England Apple Pie

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New England Apple Pie is a timeless classic that has been enjoyed by generations of Americans since the early days of our great nation. Originally made with ingredients that were abundant in the region, this pie is a testament to the resourcefulness and ingenuity of New Englanders.

The New England region is known for its picturesque landscapes, quaint towns, and abundant apple orchards. The unique climate of the region, with its long, cool autumns and short, intense growing seasons, produces crisp, juicy apples that are perfect for baking. From the heirloom varieties like Baldwin, Northern Spy, and Cortland to the more modern Honeycrisp and Granny Smith, New England apples offer a range of flavors and textures that make them ideal for pies.

When it comes to the crust, New England Apple Pie is traditionally made with a flaky, buttery pastry that is easy to make and adds a delicious crunch to the pie. The secret to a good crust is to use the coldest ingredients possible and to work quickly and lightly to avoid overworking the dough. With just a few ingredients and a little bit of patience, you can make a crust that is both light and flaky and ideal for holding the sweet, tangy filling.

Speaking of the filling, New England Apple Pie is typically made with a mixture of apples and a combination of spices and sugar. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves are the most common spices used in the pie, and they add a warmth and depth of flavor that is both comforting and satisfying. Sugar can be added to taste, depending on the sweetness of the apples used, and some recipes call for a small amount of lemon juice or zest to help balance the flavor of the filling.

To get the best results, it’s important to choose the right apples for the job. Firm apples that hold their shape when baked, such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, are ideal for a pie with a more pronounced apple flavor. Softer apples like McIntosh or Cortland will break down more quickly and make a smoother, more uniform filling.

Whether it’s a special occasion or just a cozy night in with loved ones, New England Apple Pie is a delightful treat that is both easy to make and impossible to resist. The time-honored recipe has stood the test of time, and for good reason - it is simply delicious. With its flaky crust, perfect blend of spices, and juicy, tender apples, this pie embodies the essence of New England cooking and is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it.

Ingredients:

  • 1 double crust pie pastry
  • 6 cups sliced, peeled and cored apples
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
  • 1 egg, beaten
  • 1 tablespoon coarse sugar

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
  2. Roll out one of the pie pastries to fit a 9-inch pie dish and place it in the dish. Refrigerate.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until the apples are evenly coated.
  4. Spoon the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust and dot with the butter.
  5. Roll out the remaining pastry to make a top crust. Place over the pie, trim any overhanging pastry and crimp the edges together.
  6. Brush the top of the pie with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar.
  7. Cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
  8. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling and the crust is golden brown.
  9. Allow the pie to cool completely before serving.