Iron Skillet Apple Pie Recipe

Iron Skillet Apple Pie is a rustic and delightful twist on the classic apple pie, baked to golden perfection in a cast iron skillet. This pie features a buttery, flaky crust encasing a filling of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples that become perfectly caramelized as they bake. The cast iron skillet ensures an evenly cooked, crispy crust with a slightly caramelized bottom, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture to this comforting dessert. Ideal for family gatherings or cozy fall evenings, this pie is as beautiful as it is delicious. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a truly irresistible treat.

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
• 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water

For the Filling:

• 6 cups thinly sliced, peeled apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

For the Skillet:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup brown sugar

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Crust:
   • In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Divide the dough into two disks, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice. Toss to coat the apples evenly. Set aside.
3. Prepare the Skillet:
   • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Melt the 1/4 cup of butter in a 10-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat. Stir in the 1/4 cup of brown sugar and cook until the mixture is bubbly and slightly caramelized, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Assemble the Pie:
   • Roll out one disk of dough on a lightly floured surface to fit the bottom of the skillet. Carefully place the dough in the skillet over the caramelized sugar mixture, pressing it gently against the bottom and sides. Pour the apple filling into the crust, then dot the apples with the 2 tablespoons of butter. Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the apples. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal. Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
5. Bake the Pie:
   • Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with foil.
6. Cool and Serve:
   • Let the pie cool slightly in the skillet before serving. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Iron Skillet Apple Pie is a deliciously rustic dessert that combines the classic flavors of apple pie with the unique texture and taste that only a cast iron skillet can provide. Its crispy, caramelized crust and sweet, spiced apple filling make it a truly comforting treat.