Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie is a perfect balance of comforting, rustic flavors and a perfectly flaky, golden crust. With its delightful combination of tart apples, warm spices, and a buttery finish, it’s a dessert that evokes both nostalgia and gourmet sophistication.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie

Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie is a reimagined take on the traditional British dessert, capturing the essence of the classic while elevating it with carefully selected ingredients. The recipe showcases tender, cinnamon-spiced apples wrapped in a buttery, flaky pastry that bakes to a golden perfection.

The secret lies in the simplicity of the ingredients, letting each element shine through, ensuring the apples’ natural sweetness is the star of the show. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, Jamie’s approach to making apple pie is both easy to follow and absolutely satisfying.

Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie Recipe

Ingredients Needed

Here are the essential ingredients for making Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie:

• For The Pastry

  • 225g plain flour
  • 125g unsalted butter, chilled and diced
  • 1 tablespoon caster sugar
  • A pinch of sea salt
  • 1 large egg (for brushing)
  • Ice-cold water (as needed)

• For The Filling

  • 1kg Bramley apples (or your preferred cooking apples)
  • 100g brown sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1-2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon cornflour (for thickening)
  • A small pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)

Equipment Needed

To create Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie, the following kitchen tools and equipment are essential:

• A large mixing bowl for combining your dough ingredients
• A rolling pin to roll out the pastry
• A sharp knife for cutting and peeling the apples
• A 9-inch pie dish (or a similar-sized pie pan)
• A pastry brush for glazing the top of the pie
• A baking sheet for catching any drips while baking
• A sharp fork to crimp the edges of the pie

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie?

Step 1: Prepare The Pastry

Start by placing the plain flour, butter, sugar, and salt into a large bowl. Use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour until it resembles breadcrumbs.

Gradually add ice-cold water, a little at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Knead the dough lightly on a floured surface until smooth, then wrap it in cling film and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare The Apple Filling

While the dough chills, peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. Toss the apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon zest, and juice, then stir in the cornflour to help thicken the filling as it cooks.

Step 3: Assemble The Pie

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Roll out half of the dough on a floured surface to fit the base of your pie dish.

Place the rolled dough into the dish, trimming any excess. Fill with the apple mixture, then roll out the remaining dough to create the top of the pie.

Carefully lay it over the apples and crimp the edges with a fork to seal. Cut a few small slits in the top to allow steam to escape. Brush the top with a beaten egg for a golden finish.

Step 4: Bake The Pie

Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips, then bake it in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender. Let the pie cool for at least 15 minutes before serving to allow the filling to set.

Expert Tips

1. Chill the Dough: Chilling your pastry dough is key to achieving a flaky texture. If the dough becomes too warm while working with it, return it to the fridge for a few minutes to cool down.
2. Use Mixed Apples: For a more complex flavor, use a combination of tart and sweet apples. Bramley apples are perfect for the filling, but you can mix in a few sweeter varieties like Gala or Fuji for a deeper taste.
3. Thicken the Filling: If your apples are very juicy, increase the amount of cornflour by an extra teaspoon to prevent the filling from becoming too runny.
4. Serve Warm: Apple pie is best served warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for extra indulgence.
5. Make it Ahead: You can prepare the pie a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Simply take it out of the fridge about 15 minutes before baking to ensure an even bake.

Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie is a delightful dessert that brings comfort to your kitchen with its perfect balance of textures and flavors. The crisp pastry and warm, spiced apple filling make it a classic that will never go out of style.

Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, a cozy night in, or a special occasion, this recipe ensures a delicious result every time. With its easy-to-follow instructions and expert tips, it’s an apple pie recipe anyone can master and enjoy!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie

Jamie Oliver’s apple pie recipe is a crowd favorite, combining simple, fresh ingredients with a rustic, comforting vibe. But sometimes, you might want to put a fun twist on this classic dish. Here are some easy variations to give your apple pie a bit of flair while staying true to its delicious, heartwarming essence.

1. Spiced Apple Pie:
   For a warmer, spicier flavor, consider adding extra spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. While Jamie Oliver’s recipe already includes a hint of cinnamon, you can amp it up by adding 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves and a pinch of nutmeg. If you want even more depth, a touch of ginger or cardamom can elevate the pie to new heights, giving it a holiday-season feel.

2. Caramel Apple Pie:
   Who doesn’t love caramel?

   Elevate your apple pie with a rich caramel sauce that can be poured over the apples before they’re wrapped in the pastry. You can make a simple caramel sauce by melting sugar and butter, then adding cream to create a smooth, indulgent topping. For extra indulgence, drizzle more caramel on top of the finished pie.

3. Apple and Berry Pie:
   If you like a fruity twist, consider mixing in some berries. A combination of apples and mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries) can add a burst of color and tang to your pie. The natural sweetness of the apples balances beautifully with the tartness of the berries. This also adds a lovely purple hue to the filling when baked.

4. Vegan Apple Pie:
   For a plant-based version, simply replace the butter with vegan margarine or coconut oil in the crust. Use a flax egg or applesauce as a binding agent, and you’ll have a dairy-free, egg-free dessert that still retains all the comfort and flavor of a traditional apple pie.

5. Gluten-Free Apple Pie:
   Making a gluten-free version is straightforward. Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Many blends are designed to mimic the texture of wheat flour, so your crust will still be flaky and delicious. You might need to add a bit more water to the dough for the perfect consistency. Alternatively, you could make a gluten-free crust using almond flour or a combination of almond and coconut flour for a nutty, rich flavor.

6. Apple Pie with Cheddar Cheese Crust:
   A twist that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of apples is a savory addition-cheddar cheese. Adding shredded sharp cheddar to your pie crust is a classic choice, particularly in places like New England, where the combination of cheese and apples is a beloved tradition. It adds a savory, slightly tangy element that contrasts with the sweetness of the apples, making every bite a balance of rich flavors.

7. Apple Pie with a Crumble Topping:
   If you love the crunch of a crumble topping, you can replace the traditional pie crust with a buttery, oat-based crumble. Mix together butter, sugar, flour, and oats to create a rustic topping that adds a delightful crunch and extra texture to your apple pie. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of crispness in their pie.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Apple pie is a wonderful treat, but when you have leftovers, proper storage can help maintain its freshness and flavor. Here are some tips to store your apple pie effectively:

1. Room Temperature Storage:
   If you plan to eat the leftover apple pie within 2-3 days, you can store it at room temperature. Simply cover it loosely with plastic wrap or foil, ensuring the pie remains in a dry, cool place. The crust may lose a bit of its crispness over time, but the filling should stay fresh and delicious.

2. Refrigeration:
   For longer-lasting freshness (up to a week), you should store your apple pie in the refrigerator. Place the pie in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil to keep out moisture. If you’re concerned about the crust becoming soggy, you can place a paper towel under the pie when wrapping it, which will absorb any excess moisture.

3. Freezing Apple Pie:
   If you need to store apple pie for an extended period, freezing it is the best option. You can freeze both baked and unbaked pies. To freeze a baked pie, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to enjoy it, you can bake it directly from frozen or thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

   If you plan to freeze an unbaked pie, assemble it as usual and then freeze it on a baking sheet. Once it’s fully frozen, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, simply pop it into the oven, no need to thaw it beforehand, though you may need to add 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

4. Reheating:
   To revive the pie and bring back its delicious, freshly-baked taste, reheat slices in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the pie for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the crust is crispy again. If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave individual slices for 30-45 seconds, but the crust won’t regain its crispness this way.

What Goes Well With Apple Pie?

Apple pie is a timeless dessert that pairs beautifully with many accompaniments, each enhancing its flavors. Here are a few options to take your apple pie experience to the next level:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream:
   The classic pairing of vanilla ice cream with apple pie is a favorite for a reason. The rich, creamy ice cream contrasts perfectly with the warm, spiced apples, creating a balance of textures and flavors. If you want to be a bit adventurous, try using cinnamon ice cream or caramel-flavored ice cream for added depth.

2. Whipped Cream:
   A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top of your apple pie is a simple yet effective way to elevate the dessert. Whipped cream’s light, airy texture complements the dense apple filling, and the subtle sweetness balances the pie’s flavors. For extra flavor, you can add a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

3. Cheddar Cheese:
   For those who enjoy the savory-sweet combo, a sharp, tangy cheddar cheese slice is a perfect addition to apple pie. It enhances the pie’s sweetness and provides a wonderful contrast with the fruit. This is a popular pairing in many parts of the United States, particularly in the Northeast.

4. Caramel Sauce:
   Adding a drizzle of caramel sauce to your apple pie can elevate it to a whole new level of decadence. The buttery, rich sweetness of the caramel enhances the spiced apples and provides an indulgent touch. For a touch of elegance, drizzle some homemade salted caramel sauce over the top.

5. Tea or Coffee:
   A hot cup of tea or coffee pairs wonderfully with a slice of apple pie. The bitterness of coffee or the mildness of tea balances the sweetness of the pie, making for a satisfying dessert experience. Try a spiced chai or Earl Grey tea for added warmth and complexity.

Conclusion

Apple pie is the epitome of comfort food, a dessert that brings joy and warmth with every bite. With Jamie Oliver’s classic recipe as your base, there’s plenty of room for creativity and fun variations.

Whether you’re adding spices, mixing in berries, or giving it a vegan or gluten-free twist, you can customize the pie to suit your tastes. Plus, with a few simple storage and reheating tips, your leftover pie will remain just as delicious as the day it was baked. Don’t forget to serve it with a complementary side-be it ice cream, caramel, or a nice cup of tea-to make your apple pie experience even more delightful.

FAQs

What Ingredients Do I Need For Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie?

To make Jamie Oliver’s apple pie, you’ll need the following ingredients: 6 large apples (a mix of sweet and tart), 1 lemon, 75g caster sugar, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg, a pinch of sea salt, 25g butter, and a pre-made shortcrust pastry (or homemade pastry).

How Do I Prepare The Apples For Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie?

Peel, core, and chop the apples into bite-sized chunks. Add a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning, and toss them with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. The lemon juice helps balance the sweetness of the apples and keeps them fresh during baking.

Can I Use A Different Type Of Pastry For The Pie?

Yes, you can substitute shortcrust pastry with puff pastry if you prefer a flakier, more buttery crust. However, shortcrust pastry is typically used in this recipe for a crisp, solid base that holds the filling well.

Should I Cook The Apple Filling Before Adding It To The Pie Crust?

No, you do not need to cook the apple filling before adding it to the pie crust. The apples will cook perfectly in the oven as the pie bakes, and this method helps keep the apples from becoming too mushy.

What Is The Baking Temperature For Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie?

Jamie Oliver recommends baking the apple pie at 200°C (400°F) for about 40-45 minutes. You should check it regularly, as ovens can vary, and the pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Can I Make The Apple Pie In Advance?

Yes, you can prepare Jamie Oliver’s apple pie ahead of time. You can assemble the pie, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can bake the pie, allow it to cool, and then store it in the fridge for a couple of days.

How Do I Prevent The Pie Crust From Getting Soggy?

To prevent the pie crust from becoming soggy, make sure to use chilled pastry and avoid overfilling the pie. You can also pre-bake the bottom crust (blind bake) for 10-15 minutes before adding the filling, which helps keep the base crisp.

Can I Add Other Fruits To The Apple Pie Filling?

Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like pears, blackberries, or cranberries, in combination with apples. However, keep in mind that some fruits might release more moisture, so adjust the sugar and cornstarch to balance the consistency of the filling.

Do I Need To Add Butter To The Apple Pie Filling?

Yes, adding butter to the filling is an essential step in Jamie Oliver’s apple pie recipe. The butter helps to add richness to the pie and enhances the flavor of the apples while they bake.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Apple Pie Vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe vegan by using a plant-based butter substitute and ensuring the pastry is dairy-free. Additionally, check the sugar you use, as some sugars are processed with bone char, which might not be vegan-friendly.