Deep Dish Apple Pie

This Deep Dish Apple Pie is the ultimate comfort dessert, boasting layers of tender, spiced apples encased in a golden, buttery crust. Perfect for autumn or any time you’re craving a warm and cozy treat, this pie is filled with the sweet and tart flavors of fresh apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The deep dish allows for extra filling, making each slice a generous serving of apple-packed goodness. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a truly indulgent experience.

Ingredients:

For the crust:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 6–8 tbsp ice water

For the filling:

• 8–10 medium apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ¼ tsp ground cloves
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

For assembly:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp sugar (optional, for sprinkling)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the crust:
   In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Divide the dough into two disks, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Prepare the filling:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the apple slices, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
3. Roll out the crust:
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disk to fit a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate, leaving some overhang. Gently transfer the dough to the pie plate. Press it into the bottom and sides, trimming any excess if necessary.
4. Assemble the pie:
   Pour the apple filling into the crust, mounding it slightly in the center. Dot the filling with butter pieces. Roll out the second dough disk and place it over the apples. Trim, fold, and crimp the edges to seal. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
5. Bake the pie:
   Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the top crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar if desired. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 20 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for 40–50 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
6. Cool and serve:
   Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing. Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Deep Dish Apple Pie!