Nothing beats the taste of a homemade pie, especially when it’s bursting with the sweet and tangy flavor of ripe apricots. Apricot pie is a delightful treat that brings a taste of summer to any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a special gathering or simply craving a cozy dessert, this recipe will guide you through creating a mouthwatering apricot pie that will impress your guests and leave your taste buds singing.
**Apricot Pie**
**Ingredients:**
– 5 cups fresh apricots, pitted and sliced
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 package store-bought pie crust (or homemade if preferred)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (for sprinkling)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Apricots:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the fresh apricot slices, granulated sugar, cornstarch, salt, almond extract, and lemon juice. Gently toss the mixture together until the apricots are evenly coated. Set the bowl aside to let the flavors meld while you prepare the pie crust.
2. **Prepare the Crust:** If using store-bought pie crust, roll out one of the crusts and place it into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges. If using a homemade crust, follow your recipe instructions for rolling and placing the crust in the pie dish.
3. **Fill the Pie:** Pour the prepared apricot filling into the pie crust, spreading it out evenly. Dot the top of the filling with small pieces of unsalted butter to add richness to the pie.
4. **Top the Pie:** If you choose to create a lattice crust, roll out the second pie crust and cut it into strips. Create a lattice pattern on top of the apricot filling by weaving the strips over and under each other. Alternatively, you can place the entire crust on top and cut a few slits to allow steam to escape during baking.
5. **Egg Wash and Bake:** Brush the top crust with the beaten egg to create a golden finish. Sprinkle coarse sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness and crunch. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
6. **Cool and Serve:** Once the pie is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This allows the filling to set and makes for easier serving. Serve the apricot pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Creating a delicious apricot pie doesn’t have to be complicated, and with this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll be able to enjoy the flavors of summer in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this apricot pie is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. So, roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and get ready to bake up a slice of pure apricot bliss!
