McDonald’s Style Apple Pie is a timeless dessert that evokes feelings of warmth and comfort. Among the many versions available, McDonald’s apple pie stands out for its unique taste and crispy texture. Recreating this iconic dessert at home is a delightful way to enjoy its flavors with fresh ingredients and a personal touch. In this article, we will delve into the history of McDonald’s apple pie, provide a detailed recipe for making it at home, and share tips to perfect this beloved treat.
The History of McDonald’s Style Apple Pie
McDonald’s introduced its apple pie in 1968, and it quickly became a favorite among customers. Initially, the pies were deep-fried, which gave them a crispy, flaky crust that many adored. However, in 1992, McDonald’s switched to a baked version, aiming for a healthier option while maintaining the pie’s delicious taste. Despite the change, McDonald’s apple pie remains a popular dessert item on their menu, cherished for its warm apple filling and satisfying crust.
Homemade McDonald’s Style Apple Pie Recipe
Creating a homemade version of McDonald’s Style Apple Pie requires attention to detail and quality ingredients. Here is a step-by-step recipe to help you make your own version of this classic dessert.
Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
- 1/4 cup cold water
For the Filling:
- 4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (slurry)
For the Assembly:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the chilled butter pieces and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Make the Filling:
- In a large saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and lemon juice.
- Cook the mixture for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender. Add the cornstarch slurry and continue to cook until the filling thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool completely.
- Roll Out the Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Cut the dough into rectangles, approximately 4×6 inches.
- Assemble the Pies:
- Place a heaping tablespoon of the apple filling onto one half of each dough rectangle, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Brush the edges with the beaten egg and fold the dough over the filling to create a pocket. Press the edges with a fork to seal and crimp them.
- Place the assembled pies on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg and sprinkle with the cinnamon-sugar mixture.
- Bake the Pies:
- Bake the pies in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
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Tips for Making the Perfect McDonald’s Style Apple Pie
- Choosing the Right Apples:
- Granny Smith apples are a great choice for their tartness, which balances the sweetness of the filling. Honeycrisp apples can also be used for their crisp texture and sweet flavor.
- Chilling the Dough:
- Ensuring the dough is well-chilled before rolling out helps in achieving a flaky crust. If the dough becomes too warm while working, refrigerate it briefly.
- Sealing the Edges:
- Properly sealing the edges of the pies is crucial to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking. Using a fork to crimp the edges ensures a tight seal.
- Baking vs. Frying:
- While the original McDonald’s pies were deep-fried, baking is a healthier alternative that still yields a deliciously crispy crust. For a more authentic texture, you can experiment with frying the pies in oil.
- Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the pies warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Storage:
- Store any leftover pies in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To reheat, simply warm them in the oven for a few minutes.
Making a Homemade McDonald’s Style Apple Pie is a rewarding experience that brings the beloved flavors of this classic dessert into your kitchen. By following the detailed recipe and tips provided, you can recreate the crispy crust and warm apple filling that make McDonald’s apple pie so special. Enjoy the process of making these delicious pies, and share them with family and friends to spread the joy of homemade goodness.
