Alton Brown is a television personality and celebrity chef famous for his scientific and methodical approach to cooking. He has many fans who love his creative recipes, and one of his most famous dishes is his apple pie. This delicious pie has a slightly tangy flavor due to the addition of apple cider vinegar, which gives it a unique taste that is distinct to Alton Brown’s recipe.
In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of making Alton Brown’s apple pie. We will discuss the ingredients you need, the equipment required, and the cooking process. Whether you’re an experienced baker or new to the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe easy to understand and enjoyable to make. So let’s begin and learn how to make an Alton Brown apple pie that everyone will love!
Understanding the recipe ingredients and measurements
To make an Alton Brown apple pie, it is important to understand the ingredients and measurements needed for the recipe. The ingredients include Granny Smith apples, all-purpose flour, cornstarch, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon zest, unsalted butter, and ice water. It is important to ensure that all of the ingredients are fresh and measured accurately.
The measurements for the Alton Brown apple pie recipe are as follows: for the crust, 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 3/4 teaspoon of kosher salt, 2 sticks of unsalted butter, and 1/4 to 1/2 cup of ice water. For the filling, 2 1/2 pounds of peeled, cored, and sliced Granny Smith apples, 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 2 tablespoons of cornstarch, 1/4 cup of sugar, 1/4 cup of light brown sugar, 1/4 teaspoon of kosher salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, and 1 teaspoon of grated lemon zest. Understanding the ingredients and measurements for the Alton Brown apple pie recipe is essential to ensure the pie turns out perfectly every time.
Finding the perfect pie crust recipe
When it comes to making the perfect apple pie, the crust is just as important as the filling. Alton Brown, known for his love of science and precision in the kitchen, has a tried-and-true pie crust recipe that yields a flaky and delicious crust every time.
To begin, gather all of your ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 tsp kosher salt, 2 tbsp sugar, 1/2 cup vegetable shortening, 12 tbsp (1 1/2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, and 1/4-1/2 cup ice water. In a food processor, pulse the flour, salt, and sugar until well combined. Add in the shortening and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse sand. Next, add in the butter and pulse until pea-sized pieces form. Slowly drizzle in the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two disks and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before rolling out. With this recipe, you’ll have a perfect pie crust to complement your delicious apple filling.
The secret to the Alton Brown apple pie filling
The secret to Alton Brown’s apple pie filling lies in the perfect balance of spices and sugars. Brown uses a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice to give the apples a warm, subtle flavor. He also adds lemon zest and juice to the mixture to brighten the flavors and prevent the apples from turning brown.
In addition to spices, Brown uses a specific ratio of sugars to achieve the ideal sweetness for his pie. He combines granulated and brown sugars, adding just enough to enhance the natural sweetness of the apples without overwhelming them. With this flavorful and perfectly balanced filling, Brown’s apple pie is sure to impress.
Tips for selecting the best apples for your pie
When it comes to making a delicious Alton Brown apple pie, selecting the right apples is key. You want apples that will hold their shape during the baking process, have a good balance of sweetness and tartness, and add a depth of flavor to your pie.
Some great options for pie apples include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Jonathan, Braeburn, and Rome apples. Granny Smith apples are a classic choice for pie because they provide a tart flavor and hold their shape well when baked. Honeycrisp apples are a newer variety that provides a sweet and juicy flavor to pies. Jonathan apples are a great choice for those who want a slightly sweeter apple with hints of spice. Braeburn apples are a balanced option that provide a mix of sweet and tart flavors. And lastly, Rome apples are another classic choice that provide a mildly tart flavor and hold their shape well during baking. When selecting your apples, make sure they are firm and free of bruises or blemishes for the best results.
Baking techniques for a perfectly cooked apple pie
When it comes to baking a perfectly cooked apple pie, there are a few key techniques to keep in mind. First and foremost, make sure to properly preheat your oven. This can often be overlooked, but it’s crucial for ensuring that your pie cooks evenly and thoroughly. Alton Brown recommends preheating your oven to 375 degrees F.
Next, be sure to keep an eye on your pie as it bakes. You want the crust to be a golden brown color and the filling to bubble up slightly. If you notice that the edges of your pie crust are browning too quickly, you can use a pie shield or cover them with foil to prevent burning. Additionally, if you notice that your pie is browning too quickly overall, you can reduce the oven temperature slightly. Following these baking techniques will result in a perfectly cooked apple pie that is sure to impress!
Enhancing the flavor with complementary spices
When it comes to making an Alton Brown apple pie, the spice combinations are key to enhancing its flavor. Consider using a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice to create a warm, spiced aroma that is perfect for fall. The smell alone will have everyone’s mouth watering before they even take their first bite.
You can also add some cardamom and ginger for a slightly spicier taste, or use vanilla extract to bring out the sweetness of the apples. Some bakers even mix in a bit of lemon juice or zest to add a touch of brightness to the pie. Whatever your preference, don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices to create a unique twist on a classic dessert. With the right combination of spices, this Alton Brown apple pie will become your go-to recipe for years to come.
Serving and storing your Alton Brown apple pie.
After making your Alton Brown apple pie, let it cool to room temperature before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to thicken and set, resulting in a more cohesive and flavorful pie. For an extra special touch, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
To store your apple pie, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store at room temperature for up to 2 days. Alternatively, you can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you have leftover pie, reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving. Just be sure to cover it with foil to prevent the crust from burning. With proper serving and storage techniques, your Alton Brown apple pie will be a delicious treat that can be enjoyed multiple times.
Conclusion
To make an Alton Brown apple pie, various steps, including making the crust from scratch, baking the apple filling, and adding the final touch of caramel sauce from the recipe are essential. However, the key to creating the perfect Alton Brown apple pie is following the recipe precisely, especially the details about the dough temperature and apple quality, which helps achieve the desired texture and flavor.
In conclusion, while making an Alton Brown apple pie may seem a daunting task for many home bakers, following the recipe’s steps and being mindful of details can lead to success. Plus, the satisfaction of enjoying a delicious, homemade pie, with the tangy granny smith apples, flaky crust, and caramel sauce, makes the effort worth it. So gather all your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to delight your taste buds with a classic apple pie recipe from Alton Brown.