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Introduction
Mom’s Flat Apple Pie is a rustic, home-style dessert that delivers all the warm, comforting flavors of traditional apple pie without the fuss of a deep-dish crust. Its thinner profile allows the apples to caramelize beautifully, resulting in a crisp, tender, and incredibly flavorful treat.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Flat apple pies have roots in old-fashioned farmhouse baking, where simplicity and speed were essential. Often made when time or resources were limited, these pies became a beloved tradition in many families. “Mom’s” version typically reflects handed-down techniques, reminding us of family kitchens, seasonal harvests, and the timeless nostalgia of homemade desserts.
Description
This recipe features a thin, buttery crust filled with cinnamon-spiced apples, baked until the edges crisp and the filling bubbles. The shallow shape allows the apples to cook evenly while creating caramelized spots that add incredible depth of flavor.
Ingredients and Quantities
For the Crust:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks / 226 g) cold unsalted butter, diced
- 5–7 tbsp ice water
For the Apple Filling:
- 4–5 medium apples, peeled and thinly sliced
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1–2 tbsp brown sugar (optional for richer flavor)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp flour (to thicken)
For Finishing:
- 1–2 tbsp melted butter
- Extra sugar for sprinkling
Optional Additions
- A pinch of cardamom for warmth
- A handful of raisins or dried cranberries
- A drizzle of caramel after baking
- A splash of vanilla extract mixed into the apple filling
- Use mixed apples for more depth (Honeycrisp + Granny Smith)
Tips for Success
- Keep the butter and water cold for the flakiest crust.
- Slice apples thinly for even cooking.
- Don’t overload the pie—flat pies bake best with a moderate amount of fruit.
- Sprinkle sugar on top for a golden, crackly finish.
- Let the pie cool slightly to allow the filling to set.
Instructions
- Make the Crust: In a bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until crumbly. Add ice water gradually until the dough comes together. Form into two discs, wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Filling: Toss sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and flour.
- Assemble: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out each dough disc into a rectangle or oval. Place one crust on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Spread apple mixture evenly over it, leaving a small border.
- Top & Seal: Lay the second rolled crust over the apples. Crimp or fold edges to seal.
- Finish: Brush with melted butter and sprinkle lightly with sugar.
- Bake: Bake for 30–40 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Cool: Allow to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per slice, 10 slices)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 3 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Sugar: 17 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 180 mg
(Values vary based on apples, crust thickness, and added sugars.)
Conclusion
Mom’s Flat Apple Pie offers classic apple-pie comfort with a charmingly rustic twist. It’s simple, fast, and packed with flavor—perfect for gatherings, holidays, or a cozy evening dessert.
Recommendation
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or sharp cheddar cheese for a traditional touch. It also transports well and slices neatly, making it ideal for potlucks and picnics.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
To enjoy this dessert with balance, consider reducing sugar, using whole-wheat pastry flour, or adding extra apples for natural sweetness. You can also brush the crust with milk instead of butter for a lighter finish. With mindful adjustments, this nostalgic treat becomes both satisfying and wholesome.
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