Name: Apple Pie à la Mode: The Best Indulgent Ice Cream Recipe
Prep time: 60 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 150 min
Ingredients: 300 g all-purpose flour; 60 g granulated sugar; 1 tsp salt; 220 g unsalted butter (cold cut into cubes); 110 g water; 1000 g apples (Pink Lady, Royal Gala or Fuji); 75 g unsalted butter; 190 g brown sugar; 1.25 tsp ground cinnamon; 1.25 tbsp cornstarch; 0.25 tsp salt; 2.5 tbsp water; 5 tbsp almond flour (or other type of finely ground nuts or breadcrumbs); 1 tbsp water (for washing); 3 tbsp brown sugar; Vanilla Ice Cream (or other flavour you prefer)

Introduction to Apple Pie à la Mode

Why is Apple Pie à la Mode a Classic?

When we think of comfort food, it’s hard to ignore the legendary apple pie à la mode. This delightful dessert merges the warm, cinnamon-spiced flavors of homemade apple pie with a decadent scoop of ice cream, creating the ultimate indulgence. It not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also provides that nostalgic sense of home. In fact, apple pie has been celebrated in American culture for generations, symbolizing tradition and the joy of sharing a meal among friends and family.

The simplicity of this recipe allows it to be passed down through generations, making it a staple at family gatherings and holiday feasts. According to a survey by the American Pie Council, apple pie remains the favorite pie in the United States, further solidifying its status as a classic. Whether you enjoy it freshly baked on a crisp autumn day or as a sweet treat after a summer barbecue, the combination of warm apple filling and cold, creamy ice cream is undeniably comforting.

So, if you’re ready to learn how to create your very own version of this iconic dish, let’s dive into the recipe for apple pie à la mode that not only tastes incredible but also carries a rich story within every slice.

Ingredients for Apple Pie à la Mode

When it comes to making a delectable apple pie à la mode, having the right ingredients can make all the difference. Let’s dive into what you’ll need for each component.

For the crust

For that flaky, buttery crust, gather:

300 g all-purpose flour
60 g granulated sugar
1 teaspoon salt
220 g unsalted butter (cold, cut into cubes)
110 g water

These elements blend beautifully to form a classic crust that cradles your delicious filling.

For the filling

You want to fill your pie with sweet, spiced goodness. Use:

1 kg apples (Pink Lady, Royal Gala, or Fuji are excellent choices)
75 g unsalted butter
190 g brown sugar
1¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
1¼ tablespoon cornstarch
¼ teaspoon salt
2½ tablespoon water

The combination of these ingredients creates an irresistible caramelized filling that’s sure to impress.

For assembling and painting

Bring your pie to life with these essentials:

5 tablespoon almond flour (or finely ground nuts or breadcrumbs)

And then, for a beautiful golden finish:

1 egg
1 tablespoon water
3 tablespoon brown sugar

For serving

Finally, top your masterpiece with:

Vanilla ice cream (or any flavor of your choice)

This simple yet essential addition elevates your apple pie à la mode to new heights, making it not just a dessert but a memorable treat. Want to learn more about choosing the perfect apples? Check out Fruit and Vegetable Facts.

Step-by-step Preparation of Apple Pie à la Mode

Creating an apple pie à la mode is a delightful culinary adventure, and I’m here to guide you through the process step by step. Let’s dive in and make your new favorite dessert!

Prepare the crust

To start, you’ll want to create a flaky pie crust, which is truly the heart of any great pie. Here’s how:

In a large bowl, mix together 300 g of all-purpose flour, 60 g of granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon of salt.
Add 220 g of cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture. Using your fingers, pinch the butter into the flour until you achieve a mix of tiny and medium pieces—this helps create that wonderfully flaky texture!
Drizzle in 110 g of water and knead just enough to bring the dough together (you should still see spots of butter for extra flakiness). Wrap the dough in plastic and let it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.

A little tip: You can prepare this crust a couple of days in advance or even freeze it for later use!

Make the apple filling

While your crust is chilling, let’s talk about the filling. The apples are the star of the show here:

Grab 1 kg of your favorite apples (I love using varieties like Pink Lady, Royal Gala, or Fuji). Peel, core, and slice them into 5mm thick pieces.
In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the apple slices with 75 g of unsalted butter, 190 g of brown sugar, 1¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1¼ tablespoon of cornstarch, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and 2½ tablespoon of water. Cook until the apples start to soften and the mixture thickens, resembling a honey-like consistency.

Make sure to cool the filling completely before moving on to the next step. No one wants a soggy crust!

Assemble the pie

Now comes the fun part—assembling your apple pie à la mode:

Take two-thirds of the chilled dough and roll it out on a floured surface until it’s about 3mm thick. Gently fit it into your pie dish, letting the edges hang over the sides.
Sprinkle the base with 5 tablespoon of almond flour—this helps soak up any juices from the apples.
Pour in your cooled apple filling.
Roll out the remaining dough to create a lattice top. Cut it into strips and cross them over the pie, weaving them together for a beautiful design.

Bake the pie

It’s time to bring your dessert to life with baking:

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Before baking, brush the lattice with a mixture of 1 beaten egg and 1 tablespoon of water, then sprinkle 3 tablespoon of brown sugar on top for a hint of sweetness.
Cover the edges with foil to prevent burning, and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until both the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.

Let your pie cool on a wire rack before serving. There's nothing quite like a warm slice of apple pie à la mode topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy! For more pie inspiration, check out The Joy of Baking for expert tips and delicious variations.

Variations on Apple Pie à la Mode

Apple Crumble à la Mode

If you love the crunch of a topping with your apple pie à la mode, try an apple crumble version! Simply replace the traditional pie crust with a buttery crumble made from oats, flour, brown sugar, and butter. Bake your spiced apples beneath this delightful topping, and once it’s golden and crisp, serve it warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. For an exciting twist, sprinkle some chopped nuts for added texture! You can find great crumble topping recipes on sites like BBC Good Food.

Spiced Apple Pie à la Mode

To elevate your apple pie à la mode, add a dash of creativity with spices! Incorporate nutmeg, ginger, or even cardamom into your apple filling for a warm, aromatic flavor. This twist blends beautifully with the vanilla ice cream, creating a delightful contrast. Consider using tart apples like Granny Smith for a refreshing zing. Each bite can transport you to your cozy fall memories, making it perfect for gatherings. Explore more spice combinations on Epicurious to find your favorite!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Apple Pie à la Mode

Tips for a flaky crust

To achieve a perfectly flaky crust, ensure your butter is incredibly cold—this helps it create steam as it bakes, leading to that delightful texture. When mixing, avoid overworking the dough; it's okay to leave some visible butter chunks. Also, chill your dough before rolling it out; this keeps it firm and easy to handle.

Notes on choosing apples

Selecting the right apples is key to crafting your ideal apple pie à la mode. Look for a mix of tart and sweet varieties, like Pink Lady, Fuji, or Royal Gala, for the best flavor. Fresh, firm apples hold up well during baking, enhancing the texture of your pie. Make sure to check the skin for any blemishes, as fresh apples make a world of difference.

For more tips on apple varieties for baking, consider checking out The Apple Expert for detailed recommendations.

Serving Suggestions for Apple Pie à la Mode

Ice Cream Pairings

The classic choice for apple pie à la mode is, of course, vanilla ice cream. However, you can elevate your dessert experience by experimenting with other flavors like caramel swirl, cinnamon, or even maple. For a unique twist, try a scoop of cheesecake ice cream or a rich salted caramel. Each option enhances the warm spices of the apple pie beautifully, creating a delightful contrast in flavors and textures.

Presentation Ideas

For an impressive serving, consider these presentation tips:

Serve in individual ramekins for a personal touch.
Drizzle with caramel sauce or chocolate sauce for added decadence.
Garnish with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to make it Instagram-worthy.
Don’t forget a mint sprig on top for that extra pop of color!

These simple touches will make your apple pie à la mode not just a treat for the taste buds but a feast for the eyes, too! For more dessert ideas, check out this guide on dessert presentation.

Time Breakdown for Apple Pie à la Mode

Preparation time

Getting everything ready for your apple pie à la mode takes about 45 minutes. This includes preparing the crust, peeling and slicing the apples, and mixing up the filling. If you have everything organized, this time can be even shorter!

Baking time

Baking the apple pie à la mode will require about 60 minutes. First, you’ll bake it covered to ensure the crust doesn’t burn, then uncover it for that perfect golden-brown finish.

Total time

In total, you’re looking at around 1 hour and 45 minutes from start to finish. This time investment is well worth it for a delicious homemade dessert that pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Let’s get cooking! For more tips on the perfect apple pie, check out this article on pie baking techniques.

Nutritional Facts for Apple Pie à la Mode

When indulging in a delightful slice of apple pie à la mode, it’s useful to know what you're savoring. Generally, one serving contains:

Calories: About 450-500 calories, depending on the size of the slice and the scoop of ice cream.
Sugar Content: Roughly 30 grams, with the majority coming from the apples and added sugars—sweetening the deal for your taste buds!
Fats: Approximately 20 grams, primarily from the buttery crust and ice cream, making for a rich, satisfying treat.

Satisfy Your Cravings, Mindfully

Enjoying a dessert like apple pie à la mode can be a wonderful part of your culinary adventure! Moderation is key, and balancing it with nutritious meals on other days helps maintain a healthy lifestyle. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging, this classic American dessert is sure to bring joy! For more details on the nutritional benefits of apples and their role in a balanced diet, check out sources like the USDA and respectable nutritionists. Happy baking and enjoying!

FAQs about Apple Pie à la Mode

How do I know when the pie is done?
One of the best indicators that your apple pie à la mode is ready is the golden-brown crust. Look for a bubbling filling — this means the juices are actively cooking and thickening inside. Typically, a baking time of about 60 minutes at 180°C/350°F should do the trick. If you're unsure, using a thermometer can also help; a finished pie should reach around 90°C/195°F in the filling.

Can I make the pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare your apple pie à la mode up to a day in advance. Just cool it completely after baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you're ready to serve, warm it briefly in the oven before adding that delightful scoop of ice cream!

What are the best apples for pie?
For the ultimate apple pie experience, think about mixing different varieties. Pink Lady, Royal Gala, and Fuji all bring sweetness and hold their shape well during baking. Each variety contributes its unique flavor, creating a delightful medley in every slice. For more apple tips, check this apple guide.

Conclusion on Apple Pie à la Mode

Indulging in apple pie à la mode is always a delightful experience. The tender, flaky crust paired with warm, spiced apples and a generous scoop of ice cream creates a perfect harmony of flavors. Discovering this classic dessert adds charm to any gathering and invites sweet memories. Treat yourself to this comforting classic!