The Best Two-Crusted Apple Pie In New England("Apple Country Pie")
A classic two-crust apple pie featuring tart apples and warm spices, perfect for cozy gatherings and showcasing fresh, seasonal flavors with a flaky homemade crust.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: Mix 2 cups of unbleached flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 3/4 cup of Crisco shortening. Add 5 tablespoons of milk and knead until smooth.
- Roll out half of the dough and fit into a pie dish. Peel, core, and slice 6-8 tart apples and place them in the crust.
- In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup white sugar, 3 tablespoons flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Sprinkle this mixture over the apples.
- Roll out the second half of the dough and cover the pie. Seal the edges and cut slits if desired for steam release.
- Brush the top crust with beaten egg white for shine.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 1 hour or until the crust is golden brown and filling is bubbling.
- Whip the egg white into loose meringue and dribble over the baked pie.
- Let the pie cool for 1 hour before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a flakier crust, ensure your Crisco shortening is very cold before mixing. If you prefer a sweeter filling, increase the sugar slightly. Consider using a combination of apples for depth of flavor; Granny Smith and Cortlands work well together. If you have leftover dough, use it for making drop biscuits like Drop Mayonnaise Biscuits for breakfast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. This pie pairs beautifully with a slice of Carrot And Pecan Cake for dessert, offering a delightful contrast in flavors and textures. Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This will help maintain the crispiness of the crust.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of The Best Two-Crusted Apple Pie In New England("Apple Country Pie") contains roughly 741 calories, with 1g protein, 117g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 901mg per serving (39% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of fat instead of Crisco shortening?
Yes, you can substitute unsalted butter for Crisco shortening in equal amounts. This will give your crust a richer flavor, though it may be slightly less flaky. Just ensure the butter is cold when mixing to achieve the best texture.
What types of apples are best for this pie?
Tart apples like Granny Smith, Cortland, or Honeycrisp are ideal for apple pie, as they hold their shape and provide a nice balance of sweetness and acidity. Using a mix of these varieties can enhance the flavor profile of your pie.
How can I tell when the pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the slits. You can also check the apples by inserting a fork; they should be tender but not mushy. If the crust browns too quickly, cover it with foil.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).