As the warm aroma of baked apples fills your home, you might find yourself dreaming of the ideal accompaniments for a slice of Betty Crocker apple pie. Think of a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting ever so gently on top of a warm slice.
The classic contrast of temperatures and flavors creates a joyous experience for the taste buds. Alternatively, a generous dollop of whipped cream can add a delightful creaminess that pairs beautifully with the pie’s crust and spiced apple filling.
Hot coffee or spiced cider complements the dish perfectly, enhancing that cozy vibe that only a home-baked pie can deliver. Feeling adventurous? Consider a glass of sweet dessert wine to elevate your dessert game to new heights.
When I think of comfort food, apple pie always dances into my mind. This dessert, cherished for generations, is more than just a sweet treat—it’s a celebration of tradition, family gatherings, and memories crafted one slice at a time. And no recipe captures this essence like the Betty Crocker apple pie.
I’ve been perfecting my apple pie skills for years, and I’m excited to share my journey with you. Through this blog, I’ll take you step-by-step through making this delicious pie, exploring its distinct flavors, and sharing some personal tips along the way. Buckle up, because this is one tasty ride.
What is Betty Crocker Apple Pie?
At its core, the Betty Crocker apple pie recipe is a straightforward, yet iconic dessert that combines tender apples with simple, wholesome ingredients. It’s about simplicity without sacrificing flavor. For many, Betty Crocker is a trusted brand. It embodies nostalgia and reliability, making this particular recipe feel like a warm hug from childhood. The apples are the stars—juicy, tender, and spiced just right with cinnamon and nutmeg. And let’s not forget about the flaky, buttery crust that cradles the filling—an essential part of what makes this pie so special.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Betty Crocker Apple Pie Recipes?
This recipe stands out for a couple of reasons. First, it utilizes Granny Smith apples, known for their crispness and tartness, which provides a perfect balance against the sweetness of sugar. This combo helps in achieving that crowd-pleasing flavor that makes you keep coming back for more. Additionally, the use of the Betty Crocker Flaky Pie Crust Mix simplifies your work. While many recipes ask you to make pie crust from scratch, this mix allows you to focus on the filling while still delivering an impeccable crust. The combination of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of nutmeg adds unique depth. It’s these little touches that set it apart.
How Does It Taste Like?
I wish I could let you taste it right now! Imagine a warm slice of pie straight from the oven. The first bite reveals the tender, spiced apples bursting with sweet-and-tart flavor. The buttery and flaky crust offers a perfect textural contrast that makes each bite a new experience. It’s a harmony of flavors that echoes the essence of fall—think crunchy leaves, fresh air, and cozy gatherings. Each mouthful brings warmth and comfort, making you feel at home, no matter where you are.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish:
Let’s gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 5 cups thinly sliced, peeled Granny Smith apples (about 3 large)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup Gold Medal™ premium all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 box (11 oz) Betty Crocker™ Flaky Pie Crust Mix
- ⅓ cup ice-cold water
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- A splash of milk for brushing
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar for sprinkling
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating something magical!
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Before you even think about mixing ingredients, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This initial step helps ensure your pie bakes evenly and produces that beautiful golden crust.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Start by peeling and slicing your Granny Smith apples. Aim for thin slices, as they will cook down beautifully. In a large bowl, combine the apple slices with granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are well coated. This mixture will form the luscious filling of our pie.
Step 3: Make the Pie Crust
Open your box of Betty Crocker Flaky Pie Crust Mix. It’s so straightforward. Simply follow the instructions on the box. You’ll add ⅓ cup of ice-cold water and mix until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two halves; one for the bottom crust and one for the top.
Step 4: Roll Out the Crust
Flour your work surface and roll out the first half of the dough into a circle. It should be about 12 inches in diameter. Gently place this crust into a 9-inch pie pan, making sure it fits snugly.
Step 5: Fill the Crust with Apples
Pour the apple mixture into the pie crust, making sure it’s evenly distributed. This is where you can get a little fancy, piling up the apples to create a satisfying mound!
Step 6: Top with Butter
Dot the filling with cubes of unsalted butter. These little nuggets will melt and enrich your pie’s flavor.
Step 7: Create the Top Crust
Roll out the second half of the dough. If you like, you can cut slits in the top crust to create a lattice effect or keep it simple with a solid top. Ensure you seal the edges, crimping them to create a decorative border.
Step 8: Brush and Sprinkle
Give the top crust a splash of milk to help it brown, and sprinkle the coarse sugar on top for that crispy finish.
Step 9: Bake
Pop your pie into the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the crust has turned a beautiful golden-brown color, and you can see the filling bubbling through the slits on top.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Let your pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This cooling step allows the filling to set, making sure each slice holds together beautifully.
Tips & Tricks On Making Betty Crocker Apple Pie
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor, opt for Granny Smith apples. Their natural tartness balances the pie’s sweetness wonderfully.
- Spice It Up: Don’t shy away from playing with spices. A pinch of allspice or cardamom can add an intriguing twist.
- Keep Ingredients Cold: When making the crust, keep your butter and water cold. It helps achieve that flakiness we adore.
- Use a Pie Shield: To prevent the edges from burning, consider using a pie shield or aluminum foil during the baking process.
- Let It Rest: Be patient! Allow your pie to cool completely to set the filling. It’ll slice much better.
Nutrition Information
How Do I Store This Dish?
If you happen to have leftovers (which is always a pleasant surprise!), simply cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you anticipate needing to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before digging in for the best flavor and texture.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Betty Crocker Apple Pie Recipe?
- Other Apple Varieties: If you don’t have Granny Smith, consider Honeycrisp or Fuji apples. They provide sweetness while holding up well during baking.
- Gluten-Free Flour: For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Ensure it includes xanthan gum for the best results.
- Brown Sugar: Swap out granulated sugar for brown sugar. This adds a richer, more caramel flavor to your filling.
- Vegetable Oil: If you’re out of unsalted butter, vegetable oil can work in the crust. It won’t be as flaky but will still yield a decent texture.
- Nut Milk: Instead of regular milk for brushing the crust, use almond or oat milk. The flavor adds a unique touch, especially if you’re dairy-free.
Betty Crocker Apple Pie Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
- Large bowl
- Pie pan
Ingredients
- 5 cups thinly sliced peeled Granny Smith apples (about 3 large)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup Gold Medal™ premium all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 box 11 oz Betty Crocker™ Flaky Pie Crust Mix
- ⅓ cup ice-cold water
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- A splash of milk for brushing
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
- Before you even think about mixing ingredients, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This initial step helps ensure your pie bakes evenly and produces that beautiful golden crust.
- Start by peeling and slicing your Granny Smith apples. Aim for thin slices, as they will cook down beautifully. In a large bowl, combine the apple slices with granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are well coated. This mixture will form the luscious filling of our pie.
- Open your box of Betty Crocker Flaky Pie Crust Mix. It’s so straightforward. Simply follow the instructions on the box. You’ll add ⅓ cup of ice-cold water and mix until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two halves; one for the bottom crust and one for the top.
- Flour your work surface and roll out the first half of the dough into a circle. It should be about 12 inches in diameter. Gently place this crust into a 9-inch pie pan, making sure it fits snugly.
- Pour the apple mixture into the pie crust, making sure it’s evenly distributed. This is where you can get a little fancy, piling up the apples to create a satisfying mound!
- Dot the filling with cubes of unsalted butter. These little nuggets will melt and enrich your pie’s flavor.
- Roll out the second half of the dough. If you like, you can cut slits in the top crust to create a lattice effect or keep it simple with a solid top. Ensure you seal the edges, crimping them to create a decorative border.
- Give the top crust a splash of milk to help it brown, and sprinkle the coarse sugar on top for that crispy finish.
- Pop your pie into the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the crust has turned a beautiful golden-brown color, and you can see the filling bubbling through the slits on top.
- Let your pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This cooling step allows the filling to set, making sure each slice holds together beautifully.
Notes
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor, opt for Granny Smith apples. Their natural tartness balances the pie’s sweetness wonderfully.
- Spice It Up: Don’t shy away from playing with spices. A pinch of allspice or cardamom can add an intriguing twist.
- Keep Ingredients Cold: When making the crust, keep your butter and water cold. It helps achieve that flakiness we adore.
- Use a Pie Shield: To prevent the edges from burning, consider using a pie shield or aluminum foil during the baking process.
- Let It Rest: Be patient! Allow your pie to cool completely to set the filling. It’ll slice much better.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Making a Betty Crocker apple pie is more than just following a recipe—it’s about creating memories and savoring the simple pleasures in life. With each step, from slicing the apples to enjoying that first, warm bite, you’re engaging in a time-honored tradition. As you embark on this baking journey, remember that it’s not just about the pie itself, but the joy it brings to those you share it with. So roll up your sleeves, embrace the aroma of baking apples, and let the comfort of a homemade apple pie fill your home and heart.
Happy baking!
