Apple pie has long been a classic dessert, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday, hosting a family gathering, or just indulging in a sweet treat, this super creamy apple pie will quickly become a favorite. The combination of tender apples, a rich and creamy filling, and a light, golden crust makes this pie an irresistible choice for dessert lovers.
In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the steps to make a super creamy apple pie that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare. The secret? A smooth, custard-like filling that complements the apples perfectly, creating an unforgettable dessert experience.
Why You’ll Love This Super Creamy Apple Pie
- Rich and Creamy Texture: The filling is luxuriously creamy, with a delicate sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tartness of the apples.
- Perfect Balance of Flavors: The apples are cooked just right, soft and tender without losing their shape, and the custard filling enhances the flavors of the fruit.
- Easy to Make: This recipe may sound impressive, but it’s simple and straightforward to follow. Even beginners can make this pie with ease.
- A Showstopper Dessert: Whether you’re making it for a dinner party or just a weekend treat, this apple pie will be the star of the show.
Ingredients:
- For the crust:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 2-3 tablespoons ice water
- For the filling:
- 4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- For finishing:
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust: Start by making the pie crust. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter to the bowl. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Be careful not to overwork the dough, as you want the butter to remain in small chunks to create a flaky crust.
Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough begins to come together. You may not need all of the water, so stop once the dough forms a ball. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to chill.
2. Prepare the Filling: While the dough chills, you can prepare the apple filling. Peel and core the apples, then cut them into thin slices. Set them aside.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. This creamy mixture will form the base for the custard filling that will surround the apples.
3. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has chilled, take it out of the fridge and roll it out on a lightly floured surface. Roll it to about 1/8-inch thickness and then carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish. Press the dough into the dish and trim any excess hanging over the edges. If you want, you can crimp the edges for a decorative look.
4. Assemble the Pie: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Arrange the sliced apples in the pie crust, filling it to the top. Pour the creamy custard mixture over the apples, ensuring that the apples are evenly covered. The custard will help bind the apples together and create that deliciously creamy texture.
5. Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is set. The pie should be firm to the touch in the center. If the crust is browning too quickly, you can cover the edges with foil to prevent burning.
6. Cool and Serve: Once the pie is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and makes it easier to slice. Dust the top with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish, if desired.
Tips for the Best Creamy Apple Pie:
- Choose the Right Apples: While any apple will work, tart apples like Granny Smith provide a great contrast to the sweetness of the custard. If you prefer a sweeter pie, you can use Honeycrisp or Gala apples.
- Chill the Dough: For a flakier crust, always chill the dough before rolling it out. This helps prevent the butter from melting too quickly during baking.
- Don’t Skip the Custard: The custard filling is the star of this recipe. Be sure to mix it thoroughly to create a smooth and creamy texture.
- Add a Pinch of Lemon: If you like a hint of brightness in your pie, add a teaspoon of lemon juice to the apple filling for extra flavor.
Why This Recipe Works:
The combination of a flaky crust, tender apples, and creamy custard is what makes this pie so special. The apples provide a juicy contrast to the rich filling, while the custard adds a smooth, creamy texture that elevates the entire dish. It’s not your typical apple pie; it’s a creamy, custardy version that feels extra indulgent.
Nutritional Information:
This creamy apple pie is a bit indulgent, but it’s well worth the treat. Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (assuming 8 servings):
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 4g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 25g
Final Thoughts:
This super creamy apple pie is the perfect dessert for any apple lover. With its buttery crust, tender apples, and rich, custard-like filling, it’s a dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion or enjoying it with family on a cozy evening, this pie will be a hit. It’s the ultimate comfort food, combining all the best flavors and textures in one delicious slice.
So go ahead, try this recipe, and treat yourself to a slice of this heavenly creamy apple pie. It’s a dessert that brings comfort, joy, and a little bit of sweetness to every moment.