Gordon Ramsay’s Irresistible Apple Pie Recipe

Introduction

When it comes to delectable desserts, Gordon Ramsay’s apple pie stands out as an absolute classic. The tantalizing aroma of cinnamon and baked apples will waft through your kitchen, capturing the essence of homey comfort. This renowned recipe promises a flaky, golden crust and a luscious, perfectly spiced apple filling, making it an instant crowd-pleaser and a perfect indulgence for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 4-8 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:

• 8 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

Directions

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar.
   • Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter to work it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
   • Sprinkle ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, over the mixture and gently stir with a fork after each addition. Add only enough water to moisten the flour mixture.
   • Gather the dough into a ball, divide it in half, and flatten each half into a disk. Wrap them in plastic and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Make the Filling:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well-combined.
3. Assemble the Pie:
   • On a floured surface, roll out one dough disk into a circle large enough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Place the dough into the pie dish, trimming any excess overhang.
   • Pour the apple filling into the prepared pie crust and dot the top with small pieces of butter.
   • Roll out the second dough disk and carefully place it over the filling. Trim, seal, and flute the edges. Cut a few slits on the top crust to vent steam.
4. Bake and Serve:
   • Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 45-55 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
   • Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy it on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

FAQ

1. Can I use a different type of apple for the filling?

Gordon Ramsay typically recommends using tart apples, such as Granny Smith, for the filling as they hold their shape well when baked. However, feel free to experiment with a mix of apple varieties to achieve a balance of flavors and textures.

2. Can I make the pie dough in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the pie dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days or freeze it for future use. Allow the dough to come to room temperature before rolling it out for the pie crust.

3. How should I store any leftovers?

If you have any leftover pie, it can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. For an extra treat, warm individual slices in the oven before serving.

4. Can I use pre-made pie crust instead of making it from scratch?

While making your own pie crust yields exceptional results, using a quality pre-made crust is a time-saving alternative that can still produce a delicious pie.

5. How can I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?

One method to prevent a soggy bottom crust is to sprinkle a thin layer of coarse breadcrumbs, ground nuts, or graham cracker crumbs over the crust before adding the filling. Additionally, it can help to bake the pie on a lower oven rack to ensure the bottom crust is thoroughly cooked.

Uncover the secrets of Gordon Ramsay’s sublime apple pie recipe and treat yourself to a mouthwatering dessert that perfectly balances sweetness and spice. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned baker, this delightful creation is sure to become a treasured favorite in your recipe collection.