I remember the first time I tried making Jamie Oliver’s apple pie. I had just moved into my first apartment. I was keen to impress my friends with something that felt homemade but wasn’t too complicated. Apple pie seemed like the perfect choice-it’s comforting, classic, and there’s something magical about the scent of apples and cinnamon filling a room. I found Jamie Oliver’s recipe, and after reading through it, I was inspired. The pie was a hit, and ever since, it’s become my go-to for any occasion.
Baking has always been about comfort for me. Whether it’s the simple joy of following a recipe or the way it brings people together, there’s something truly satisfying about making a delicious dessert from scratch. Jamie Oliver’s apple pie stands out because of its balance between modern simplicity and classic technique.
Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie Recipe
Jamie’s recipe is the epitome of an easy-to-follow, no-fuss apple pie. There’s a great harmony in the way he approaches the ingredients, blending just the right amount of sweetness, tartness, and spice. One thing I’ve always loved about his recipes is how accessible they are. He doesn’t overcomplicate things, yet each step feels purposeful. When you get down to it, his apple pie is a beautiful take on a beloved classic.
I’ve made it many times now. Sometimes I stick to the original, and other times, I make little tweaks depending on what’s in the fridge. Either way, it’s always a winner.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s the breakdown of the ingredients Jamie recommends. Each element is important for creating that golden, flaky crust and sweet, tangy filling.
For The Crust
- Plain flour (250g): Provides the structure for the crust. You want a good base, and plain flour gives just the right texture.
- Cold butter (125g): The secret to a perfect pastry. Cold butter helps create that beautiful flakiness we all love.
- Pinch of salt: It’s all about balance. Salt enhances the flavor of the pie without making it salty.
- Iced water (cold, around 4 tbsp): The magic ingredient that helps bring the dough together without overheating it.
For The Filling
- Cooking apples (about 6, peeled and chopped): Bramley apples are ideal because they break down into a lovely soft, chunky filling. Their tartness pairs beautifully with the sweet notes in the recipe.
- Golden caster sugar (100g): Just the right sweetness to balance the apples’ tartness.
- Ground cinnamon (1 tsp): A must for that warm, comforting flavor.
- Lemon juice (half a lemon): A touch of acidity helps cut through the sweetness and keeps the apples from browning too quickly.
- Cornflour (1 tbsp): Helps thicken the filling and prevents it from becoming runny.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie
This is where the magic happens. Making the pie from scratch is far less intimidating than it might seem. Here’s how you can nail it.
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Prepare The Pastry
- Start by combining flour and salt in a bowl. Add in the cold butter. Use your fingers to rub it in until it resembles breadcrumbs.
- Gradually add in iced water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork it.
- Wrap the dough in cling film and chill it in the fridge for 30 minutes.
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Make The Filling
- While the dough is chilling, peel, core, and chop your apples.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the apples with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornflour until evenly coated. This step ensures the apples soften and don’t release too much liquid.
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Assemble The Pie
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Roll out half the dough on a floured surface until it’s large enough to line your pie dish.
- Place the dough in the dish, trimming the edges, and fill it with the prepared apple mixture.
- Roll out the remaining dough for the top crust. Place it over the apples and crimp the edges together.
- Cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape, then brush with a little beaten egg for a golden finish.
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Bake
- Place the pie in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes or until golden brown. You’ll know it’s done when the crust is crispy, and the filling is bubbling up.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
There’s so much happening behind the scenes when you bake an apple pie. A lot of it comes down to understanding the ingredients and their roles:
- Butter: The key to a flaky crust. The cold butter creates layers as the dough bakes, which expands and separates to form a tender, crisp finish.
- Cornflour: This helps the filling firm up as it bakes. Without it, you’d end up with a soggy pie. Cornflour absorbs excess moisture from the apples, thickening the filling to the perfect consistency.
- Lemon Juice: A touch of acidity adds complexity to the pie’s flavor and prevents the apples from turning brown too quickly. It balances out the sweetness.
- Cinnamon: It brings warmth to the dish. The spice not only complements the apples but also plays a role in creating that signature aroma we all associate with homemade pie.
Expert Tips
- Keep your pastry cold: The colder your butter and water, the flakier your crust will be. Don’t skip the chilling time.
- Use the right apples: Not all apples are equal. Choose varieties that hold up well to cooking, like Bramley or Granny Smith.
- Egg wash for a golden crust: For a crisp, golden finish, brush the top with a beaten egg before baking. This gives the pie that perfect shine.
- Let it cool: It might be tempting, but let your pie cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set, making it easier to slice.
Recipe Variations
While Jamie’s apple pie is pretty perfect as it is, there are plenty of ways to make it your own. Here are some ideas:
- Add nuts: Walnuts or pecans can add a delightful crunch to the filling.
- Swap cinnamon for nutmeg: If you want a slightly different flavor profile, nutmeg brings a different kind of warmth.
- Crispy topping: Try replacing the top crust with a streusel topping for a crunchy, sugary finish.
- Spiked pie: A splash of rum or bourbon in the filling can give your pie a sophisticated kick.
Final Words
Jamie Oliver’s apple pie is a testament to the idea that simple can be spectacular. There’s something incredibly satisfying about creating a dessert that not only tastes great but also fills your home with that unmistakable, homey scent. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you can have a pie that’s both comforting and impressive.
FAQs
What Makes Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie Recipe Unique?
Jamie Oliver’s apple pie recipe stands out because of his use of a mix of different apples and a hint of lemon zest for added flavor.
Can I Use Store-bought Pastry For Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie?
Yes, you can use store-bought pastry if you’re short on time. But Jamie’s homemade pastry gives it an extra touch of freshness and flakiness.
How Long Should I Bake Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie?
Jamie suggests baking the pie for around 45-50 minutes at 180°C (350°F) until the crust is golden and the apples are tender.