Sure, I can craft a full recipe with the structure you’re looking for! Here’s an expanded version of your cinnamon apple pie recipe:
Cinnamon Apple Pie: A Warm Classic in a Cast-Iron Skillet
Introduction:
Apple pie is a quintessential dessert that has warmed kitchens for centuries. Its irresistible combination of tart, juicy apples, warm spices, and flaky pastry makes it a timeless favorite. This particular recipe is made even better by the use of a cast-iron skillet, which ensures an evenly baked, golden crust. The skillet’s heat retention allows the apples to cook perfectly, giving you that delicious caramelization around the edges. However, if you don’t have a cast-iron skillet, you can easily bake this pie in a 9-inch deep-dish pie plate. Either way, this cinnamon apple pie will be a showstopper at any gathering!
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
- 6-8 tbsp ice water
For the filling:
- 6-8 medium-sized apples (a mix of tart and sweet varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work best)
- ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg
- ¼ tsp ground allspice
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1 tbsp butter (to dot on top)
- 1 tbsp milk (for brushing the crust)
Optional for garnish:
- 1 tbsp coarse sugar for sprinkling
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (for serving)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Dough
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in the butter: Add the cold butter cubes to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter, two forks, or your hands to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces of butter.
- Add ice water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring gently after each addition until the dough begins to come together. You may not need all of the water.
- Form the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface, divide it into two portions, and shape each into a disc. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before using.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
- Peel, core, and slice the apples: Peel and slice the apples into thin wedges, about ¼-inch thick. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Toss with spices and sugar: In a separate small bowl, combine the brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and flour. Sprinkle this mixture over the apples and toss well to coat.
- Add lemon juice: Drizzle the lemon juice over the apples and toss again. This helps prevent the apples from browning and adds a nice tang to balance the sweetness.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Roll out the dough: Remove one disc of dough from the fridge. Roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a circle large enough to fit your skillet or pie plate (about 12 inches in diameter).
- Transfer to the skillet: Gently lift the dough into your cast-iron skillet or pie plate. Press it down into the corners and trim any excess dough around the edges, leaving about 1 inch of overhang.
- Add the filling: Pile the prepared apple filling into the crust, mounding it slightly in the center.
- Top with butter: Dot the filling with small pieces of butter for extra richness and flavor.
- Roll out the top crust: Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the apples. Trim the excess dough, leaving about 1 inch of overhang. Fold the edges of the top crust under the bottom crust to create a thicker border.
- Crimp the edges: Use your fingers or a fork to crimp the edges of the dough together.
- Cut vents: Cut 4-6 slits in the top of the pie to allow steam to escape while baking.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
- Brush with milk: Use a pastry brush to lightly brush the top crust with milk for a golden finish. Optionally, sprinkle the top with coarse sugar for added texture and sweetness.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie on the middle rack and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. You can cover the edges of the pie with foil if they start to brown too quickly.
- Cool: Allow the pie to cool for at least 1 hour before serving. This will help the filling set.
Methods for Serving:
This cinnamon apple pie is perfect on its own, but you can elevate it further with a few optional serving suggestions:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream.
- Pair it with a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- For a festive twist, top with chopped pecans or walnuts.
History:
The apple pie has long been a staple of American dessert culture, with roots tracing back to early European settlers. The pie’s true origins are debated, but its significance is unquestioned. English and Dutch settlers introduced apple-filled pies to America in the 1600s, but it was in the U.S. that apple pie truly became iconic.
In the early 19th century, the phrase “As American as apple pie” began to be used to express the notion of American values and traditions. Though the dish wasn’t originally created in America, it is now undeniably linked with the country’s heritage, symbolizing warmth, comfort, and family gatherings.
Conclusion:
This cinnamon apple pie baked in a cast-iron skillet isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience. From the rich, flaky crust to the perfectly spiced apple filling, every bite is a reminder of simple, delicious pleasures. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cozy fall evening with loved ones or at a family gathering, this pie brings comfort and joy. Try it out—your kitchen will soon be filled with the sweet scent of apples and cinnamon, and your heart will be filled with happiness.
For the Lovers of Apple Pie:
Apple pie lovers are some of the most dedicated dessert aficionados, and it’s easy to see why. There’s something truly magical about the balance of tender apples, aromatic spices, and buttery crust. Whether enjoyed with friends, family, or alone (with a cup of coffee), this cinnamon apple pie brings people together. It’s the perfect recipe for bakers of all skill levels to share a piece of homemade goodness with the people they love.
Happy baking!
Let me know if you’d like to adjust any part of this recipe or if you’re looking for something else!