Spiced Autumn Apple & Pear Pie
Introduction
As the crisp autumn air sweeps in and the leaves begin to paint the ground in vibrant hues, there’s nothing quite like filling your home with the comforting aroma of a freshly baked pie. This Spiced Autumn Apple & Pear Pie combines the sweetness of apples and pears with warm, fragrant spices, creating a delightful dessert that’s perfect for gatherings with family and friends. I invite you to savor this recipe and let it be part of your seasonal traditions. Sign up to receive this recipe directly to your email—it’s a dish you don’t want to miss!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pie is truly a celebration of fall! The contrasting flavors of tart apples and juicy pears create a harmonious blend, while spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice wrap everything in a cozy embrace. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also easy to prepare, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels. Whether enjoyed as a comforting dessert after dinner or as a sweet treat during a chilly afternoon, this pie is sure to bring smiles to everyone at your table!
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
– 1/4 cup ice water
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
– 3 medium pears, peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon allspice
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Turbinado sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
**Necessary Tools**
– 9-inch pie pan
– Rolling pin
– Mixing bowls
– Pastry cutter or fork
– Baking sheet
– Wire rack
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Feel free to experiment with different varieties of apples, such as Granny Smith for more tartness or Honeycrisp for extra sweetness. You can also add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for an additional layer of flavor. Want a little crunch? Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the chilled butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs—this is where you’ll start to feel that comforting baker’s vibe!
3. Gradually add the ice water one tablespoon at a time until the dough comes together. Form two disks, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. While the dough chills, mix the sliced apples and pears in another bowl with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Oh, the lovely aromas will already start to waft through your kitchen!
5. Roll out one dough disk on a floured surface and fit it into the pie pan. Don’t worry about perfection—home-baked pies are meant to be charming!
6. Pour the luscious fruit mixture into the crust and spread it evenly.
7. Roll out the second dough disk, place it over the filling, and crimp the edges to seal. Make slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape—those little windows are so adorable!
8. Brush the top with the beaten egg and sprinkle turbinado sugar on top for that sweet crunch (if desired).
9. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips, and bake for 60-65 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling bubbles enticingly.
10. Once baked, let the pie cool on a wire rack, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Slice up your pie and serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce will elevate the experience, making it even more indulgent!
Pro Tips for Success
– Make sure your butter is very cold for a flakier crust.
– Don’t skip the chilling step for the dough; it helps keep the crust from shrinking during baking.
– Feel free to cover the edges of your pie with foil if they begin to brown too quickly.
Storing and Reheating
To store leftovers, wrap the cooled pie in plastic wrap or foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When you’re ready for a slice, simply reheat it in a warm oven until heated through—it’s like enjoying freshly baked pie all over again!
FAQ Section
– Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Absolutely! A store-bought crust can save time, and there are some delicious options available.
– What type of apples work best for this pie?
A mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, gives a delightful balance.
Conclusion
This Spiced Autumn Apple & Pear Pie not only warms the soul but creates cherished memories with loved ones around the table. Embrace the season’s flavors, and give this recipe a try—you’ll be grateful you did! Share your beautiful pie photos on social media and tag them so we can all enjoy the deliciousness you create.
**Nutritional Information**
Approximate nutritional information per serving (1 slice):
– Calories: 250
– Total Fat: 12g
– Saturated Fat: 7g
– Cholesterol: 40mg
– Sodium: 150mg
– Total Carbohydrates: 34g
– Dietary Fiber: 2g
– Sugars: 10g
– Protein: 2g
