Apple Pie with Custard

Apple pie is a classic dessert loved by many, known for its comforting flavors and cozy aroma that fills the house. The warm spiced apples paired with a buttery, flaky crust make it the perfect treat for any occasion, especially in the colder months. To elevate this traditional dessert, a velvety custard adds a rich and creamy touch, turning an already delicious pie into something extraordinary.

Here’s a recipe for a homemade apple pie with a silky custard that will surely impress your guests and bring a smile to your face.

Ingredients:

For the Apple Pie:

• 6-7 medium apples (Granny Smith or Braeburn are great choices)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tablespoon butter (cut into small pieces)
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional for thickening)
• 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade if preferred)

For the Custard:

• 2 large egg yolks
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 1/4 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Pinch of salt

• Instructions:

  Preparing the Apple Pie:

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin slices. Toss them with the lemon juice in a large bowl to prevent browning.
  3. Make the Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Sprinkle this mixture over the apples, tossing until the apples are well-coated. If you want a thicker filling, you can add cornstarch at this point.
  4. Assemble the Pie: Roll out the pie crusts on a lightly floured surface. Place one crust in a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently into the edges. Fill the crust with the prepared apple mixture, then dot the top with small pieces of butter. Place the second crust over the apples and trim the excess dough. Crimp the edges to seal, and cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
  5. Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. You may need to cover the edges of the crust with foil to prevent them from burning.
  6. Cool: Let the pie cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set.

  Making the Custard:

  1. Whisk the Egg Yolks and Sugar: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and sugar until the mixture is smooth and pale.
  2. Heat the Milk: In a saucepan over medium heat, heat the milk until it just begins to simmer. Be careful not to let it boil.
  3. Combine: Gradually pour the hot milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly to temper the eggs. Once fully combined, return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, whisking constantly.
  4. Thicken the Custard: Continue to cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the custard thickens and coats the back of a spoon. If you like a thicker custard, mix the cornstarch with a little cold milk before adding it to the saucepan.
  5. Finish the Custard: Remove the custard from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Allow the custard to cool for a few minutes.

  6. To Serve:

     Slice a piece of the warm apple pie and drizzle the custard over the top, or serve the custard on the side for dipping. This pairing of apple pie with creamy custard will be a dessert experience to remember!

     Enjoy your delicious homemade apple pie with custard!