XXL Apple Pie

Get ready to impress with this XXL Apple Pie! Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or cozy fall evenings, this pie is a crowd-pleaser packed with tender, spiced apples and a flaky homemade crust. The XXL size ensures that everyone gets a generous slice, making it an unforgettable dessert that embodies the essence of autumn.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Feeding a Crowd – The XXL Apple Pie is perfect for parties and gatherings, serving up to 12 people with ease.
• Homemade Goodness – Enjoy the satisfaction of making your own pie crust from scratch, creating a deliciously flaky base.
• Flavor Explosion – With spiced Granny Smith apples and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, each bite is bursting with flavor.
• Versatile Dessert – Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or chilled with whipped cream; it’s delightful any way you choose.
• Simple Ingredients – Made with common pantry staples, you can whip this pie up anytime the craving hits!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to streamline the process. Having everything ready will make making your XXL Apple Pie much more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Rolling pin
• 12-inch pie pan
• Mixing bowls
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Rolling pin – Essential for rolling out dough to the perfect thickness for your crust.
• Pie pan – A sturdy 12-inch pie pan is crucial for holding all that delicious apple filling while baking evenly.
• Mixing bowls – Useful for combining ingredients without spilling or mess.

Ingredients

For the Crust

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 ½ cups unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling

• 10 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

For Topping

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar

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How to Make XXL Apple Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold butter and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until a dough forms. Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least one hour.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In another large bowl, toss sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and flour. Allow this mixture to sit so the flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to fit your pie pan. Leave some overhang for crimping later. Transfer this rolled-out dough into the pie pan and fill it with your prepared apple mixture. Dot with small pieces of butter.

Step 4: Top the Pie

Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the apple filling. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges. Crimp to seal tightly and cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush it all over with beaten egg and sprinkle coarse sugar on top.

Step 5: Bake

Place your pie in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes. Then reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 30-40 minutes until apples are tender and crust is golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let your XXL Apple Pie cool for at least half an hour before slicing. Serve warm alongside vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired. Enjoy sharing this delightful dessert with friends and family!

How to Serve XXL Apple Pie

Serving an XXL Apple Pie is a delightful experience that can elevate any gathering. This classic dessert is not just about the pie itself but also about how you present it to your guests. Here are some creative serving suggestions that enhance the flavors and enjoyment of this delicious treat.

With Vanilla Ice Cream

• A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a rich contrast to the warm pie, melting slightly as it meets the heat.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• A drizzle of caramel sauce over the warm pie creates a sweet, sticky delight that pairs perfectly with the tartness of the apples.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream complements the pie’s richness, making each bite feel indulgent and refreshing.

Served Warm with Spices

• Warm slices sprinkled with additional cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the spiced apple flavor, bringing out seasonal notes.

Accompanied by Fresh Fruit

• Serving fresh fruit on the side can add a crisp and refreshing element alongside the warm pie, balancing flavors beautifully.

Enjoyed with Hot Beverages

• Pairing slices of pie with hot drinks like coffee or spiced cider creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for fall gatherings.

How to Perfect XXL Apple Pie

Achieving the perfect XXL Apple Pie requires attention to detail and some tried-and-true techniques. Here are essential tips to ensure your pie turns out wonderfully every time.

• Use Cold Ingredients: Keeping butter and water cold helps create a flaky crust that holds its shape during baking.
• Choose the Right Apples: Select tart varieties like Granny Smith for balance in flavor; they hold up well during baking.
• Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to pack in more apples, leaving space allows steam to escape and prevents a soggy bottom.
• Crimp Edges Securely: Sealing edges well helps contain filling and adds an appealing decorative touch to your pie.
• Let It Cool: Allowing the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing helps set the filling, making for cleaner cuts.

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Best Side Dishes for XXL Apple Pie

Pairing side dishes with your XXL Apple Pie can create a balanced meal. Here are some delightful options that complement this sweet dessert beautifully.

1. Cheddar Cheese: A slice of sharp cheddar cheese offers a savory contrast that enhances the sweetness of the pie.
2. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup serves as a comforting starter that sets up for dessert perfectly.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables add a savory element to your meal, providing balance against sweet flavors.
4. Garden Salad: A light garden salad gives freshness and acidity that cleanses the palate before indulging in dessert.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes pairs nicely without overpowering the dessert.
6. Cranberry Sauce: A tangy cranberry sauce can provide a zesty kick that complements both apple flavors and other dishes on your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an XXL Apple Pie can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid.

• Using warm butter: Warm butter can make your crust greasy instead of flaky. Always use cold butter for the best texture.
• Not chilling the dough: Skipping the chilling step can result in tough dough. Make sure to refrigerate the dough for at least 1 hour before rolling it out.
• Overfilling the pie: Adding too much filling can cause the pie to overflow while baking. Stick to the recommended amount of apples for a perfect fit.
• Cutting slits too small: If the slits in your pie crust are too small, steam won’t escape properly, leading to a soggy bottom. Make sure they are large enough for proper ventilation.
• Ignoring bake times: Following baking times closely is crucial. Check for doneness rather than relying solely on time, as ovens vary.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover XXL Apple Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers of pie if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing XXL Apple Pie

• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months, retaining its flavor and texture.

Reheating XXL Apple Pie

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for 30-60 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this XXL Apple Pie so special?

This XXL Apple Pie is packed with tender spiced apples and features a flaky homemade crust that elevates classic flavors. It’s perfect for gatherings!

Can I use other types of apples?

Yes, you can use other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji apples. Mixing apple types adds depth and flavor to your XXL Apple Pie.

How do I know when my pie is done?

The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and juices are bubbling through the slits in the top crust. The apples should also be tender.

Can I customize this XXL Apple Pie recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, raisins, or different spices like ginger or allspice for variation in flavor.

Final Thoughts

This XXL Apple Pie is not just a delicious dessert; it’s an experience meant to be shared with family and friends. Its customizable nature allows you to adapt it to your taste, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Give it a try, and enjoy its comforting warmth!

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DESSERTS