Ingredients
Method
Preparation
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and coat them with the flour mixture. Using your fingers, two knives, or a pastry blender, mash the butter into pea-sized pieces.
- Gradually stir in ½ cup of cold water with a spatula until absorbed, adding up to ¼ cup more water one tablespoon at a time as needed until the dough begins to come together into a soft ball.
- Divide into two pieces, shape into rectangular slabs about 1-inch thick, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 2 hours.
Filling Preparation
- In a very large bowl, toss the apple chunks with lemon juice.
- In a medium bowl, mix the sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and salt. Sprinkle this mixture over the apples and toss thoroughly to coat evenly. Set aside.
Baking
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 10×15×1-inch baking sheet or similar-sized jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- On a floured surface, roll out the larger piece of chilled dough into an 18×13-inch rectangle. Transfer to the lined pan, draping edges over sides, and gently press dough into corners. Chill in fridge or freezer while preparing the top crust.
- Roll the smaller dough piece into a 16×11-inch rectangle.
- Remove the pan from the fridge/freezer and pour the apple filling into the bottom crust. Drape the top crust over the apples and trim edges so both crusts overhang about ¾ inch. Seal edges tightly with fingers.
- Brush the top crust with heavy cream or egg wash. Using a sharp knife, cut multiple 1-inch slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Place the pan on a larger baking sheet to catch any spills and bake the pie for 40-45 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling bubbles through the slits.
- Cool the pie on a wire rack for at least 45 minutes before slicing and serving to allow the filling to set properly.
Notes
For a delightful presentation, serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair with warm caramel sauce, a light salad, or a side of fresh fruit to complement the pie's sweetness. Consider using a mix of tart and sweet apples for a more complex flavor in your filling. Chill your butter and the dough thoroughly for a flakier crust.
