Weeknight Apple Pie

This is going to be a quick post: short and sweet!  I have a meatloaf in the oven and potatoes simmering away on the stove, nearly ready to be smashed.  The carrots have been steamed and are just waiting for a glaze just before dinner.  So far, dinner smells have not invaded the house.  Only dessert smells.  Apple dessert, to be exact.  Always a good thing.  Dessert is done and cooling on the counter in all its golden brown glory and I thought I would take this opportunity to tell you about it!

As you can see, my pie split a bit in the back, but no matter.  Its all good!  Also, I was losing my light so it is extremely hot in this picture.  Like…molten hot.  It will settle down a bit as it cools and not be quite so puffed up.  I make this a lot in the middle of the week or when unexpected guests stop over.  It is quick, easy, and makes just enough for what I need.  No huge pile of leftovers that I end up finishing off myself!  It really is perfect for a weeknight when you have just enough time for something special.  If you ask me, it is the perfect ending for meatloaf night.

One Year Ago: Chicken Salad

Weeknight Apple Pie

1 refrigerated pie crust, store bought or homemade
2 medium apples, peeled cored and sliced thin
1/4 c brown sugar or raw sugar
1/3 c apple juice or apple cider or water
1 T butter, optional
cinnamon
2 tsp corn starch and a splash of water

In a medium sized saute pan over medium heat, mix the apple, sugar, apple juice, and butter together.  Add dashes of cinnamon to taste.  Simmer until the apples are just starting to soften, about 5 minutes.  Mix the cornstarch and just a tiny splash of cold water in a small bowl to make a slurry.  Add this to the apples and cook until thick, about 30 seconds.  Meanwhile, lay out the circle of pie crust on a piece of parchment paper on a sheet pan.  Pour the apple filling onto one half of the pie crust.  Fold over the other half and use a fork to pinch the two halves closed.  Poke a few holes in the top to vent.  If desired, beat an egg with a splash of water in a small bowl and brush over the top of the pie.  This doesn’t affect the taste, but it does make it look all fancy.  Bake at 375 for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.  Let cool on the pan until just warm.  Cut into wedges and enjoy.  This is great with ice cream!  When it is cool, you can even pick up the pieces like a piece of pizza!