Apple Pie in the Pan

Introduction:
Apple Pie in the Pan is a quick and easy way to enjoy the comforting flavors of a traditional apple pie without the hassle of making a full pie. This skillet version is perfect for those times when you crave a homemade dessert but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With a buttery crust and a warm, spiced apple filling, this dessert is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

  • 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water

For the Filling:

  • 4 large apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (55g) packed brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Topping:

  • Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
  • Add the chilled, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
  • Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
  • Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Filling:

  • In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until well coated.
  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
  • Add the apple mixture to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the sugars have caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
  • Sprinkle the flour over the apples and stir to thicken the filling slightly.
  • Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

3. Assemble the Pie:

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle large enough to cover the bottom and sides of the skillet.
  • Carefully place the rolled dough into the skillet, pressing it into the corners and up the sides.
  • Pour the apple filling into the crust and spread it out evenly.

4. Bake the Pie:

  • Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
  • Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

5. Serve:

  • Slice the apple pie in the pan and serve warm, topped with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream if desired.

Tips for Success:

  • Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a balanced flavor in the filling.
  • Make sure the butter for the crust is very cold to create a flaky texture.
  • Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing to help the filling set.

Nutritional Information:
(Nutritional values may vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (assuming 8 slices)
  • Calories: Approximately 300-350
  • Total Fat: Approximately 15-18g
  • Saturated Fat: Approximately 9-11g
  • Cholesterol: Approximately 40-50mg
  • Sodium: Approximately 150-200mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 45-50g
  • Dietary Fiber: Approximately 3-4g
  • Sugars: Approximately 25-30g
  • Protein: Approximately 2-3g

Recommendation:
Apple Pie in the Pan is an excellent dessert for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests with minimal effort. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. This simple yet delicious take on a classic apple pie is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!

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