Grandma's Classic Apple Pie in a Bag
This delightful apple pie recipe has been a cherished family favorite for generations. With a buttery, flaky crust and a perfectly spiced apple filling, it's a comforting dessert that evokes the warmth of home. Using Dad's Mazola No-Roll Pastry Shell for the crust ensures no rolling required and every bit of flavor. This recipe features a combination of tart Granny Smith apples and sweet Pink Lady apples, but feel free to explore your favorite varieties. While the baking method in a brown paper bag brings out an extraordinary caramelization of the apples, you can also bake it without the bag for a more traditional texture. Serve it warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Pie shell
1 (unbaked 9-inch pie shell (preferably Dad's Mazola No-Roll Pastry Shell))
Cooking apples
2 1/2 lbs (Granny Smith, Pink Lady, or a mix; peeled, cored, and cut into 7 cups of chunks)
Granulated sugar
1 cup (divided use)
All-purpose flour
1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons (divided use)
Nutmeg or cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon (to taste)
Lemon juice
2 tablespoons (freshly squeezed)
Butter or margarine
1/2 cup (very soft)
Brown paper bag
1 (plain, preferably without ink or printing)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Grandma's Classic Apple Pie in a Bag?
It is a cherished family favorite dessert featuring a buttery, flaky crust and a perfectly spiced apple filling, uniquely baked in a brown paper bag.
What type of crust is recommended for this recipe?
The recipe recommends using Dad's Mazola No-Roll Pastry Shell for a flavorful and easy crust that requires no rolling.
Which apple varieties work best for this pie?
A combination of tart Granny Smith apples and sweet Pink Lady apples is recommended, though you can use any favorite variety.
How many pounds of apples are required?
You will need 2 1/2 lbs of cooking apples.
How should the apples be measured after cutting?
The apples should be peeled, cored, and cut into approximately 7 cups of chunks.
Why is the pie baked in a brown paper bag?
Baking the pie in a brown paper bag results in an extraordinary caramelization of the apples.
Can I bake the apple pie without a paper bag?
Yes, you can bake it without the bag if you prefer a more traditional texture.
What spices are used in the apple filling?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of either nutmeg or cinnamon, depending on your taste preference.
How much granulated sugar is needed?
The recipe requires 1 cup of granulated sugar, used in divided portions.
Is the flour used all at once?
No, the 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour is for divided use throughout the recipe.
What is the purpose of lemon juice in this recipe?
Two tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice are added to enhance the flavor of the apples.
What type of butter should be used for the filling?
You should use 1/2 cup of very soft butter or margarine.
Does the butter need to be melted?
The recipe specifies that the butter should be very soft rather than fully melted.
What size pie shell is needed?
The recipe calls for an unbaked 9-inch pie shell.
What kind of brown paper bag is best for baking?
A plain brown paper bag is preferred, ideally one without any ink or printing.
How should I serve Grandma's Classic Apple Pie?
It is best served warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate indulgence.
Is this recipe considered easy to make?
Yes, it is tagged as an easy pie recipe, especially when using the no-roll pastry shell.
How many ingredients are in this apple pie recipe?
There are a total of 8 ingredients, including the brown paper bag used for baking.
Is this a good recipe for the autumn season?
Absolutely, it is specifically tagged as a fall dessert and comfort food.
Does the recipe use all-purpose flour?
Yes, the recipe specifies all-purpose flour.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, the recipe allows for the use of either butter or margarine.
What is the preparation method for the apples?
The apples should be peeled, cored, and cut into chunks before being used in the filling.
How much nutmeg or cinnamon is required?
You should use 1/2 teaspoon of your preferred spice.
What makes the crust unique in this recipe?
The use of a 'no-roll' pastry shell makes the crust preparation much simpler while maintaining a buttery, flaky texture.
Is the sugar amount divided?
Yes, the 1 cup of granulated sugar is noted for divided use.
What is the primary flavor of this dessert?
The primary flavors are buttery crust and perfectly spiced apples with a hint of lemon.
Can I substitute the lemon juice?
While the recipe calls for freshly squeezed lemon juice, you can experiment with other citrus, though it may change the flavor profile.
Does the recipe require a pre-baked shell?
No, the recipe specifically calls for an unbaked pie shell.
What tags are associated with this recipe?
The recipe is tagged with terms like apple pie, dessert, family recipe, easy pie, fall dessert, and comfort food.
How much flour is used in total?
The total amount of all-purpose flour used is 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons.