Key Takeaways
- Authentic Experience: Yoder’s is renowned for delivering comforting, home-cooked meals rooted in Amish traditions, making their dishes reminiscent of a simpler, more loving culinary era.
- Signature Dish: Their classic apple pie, known for its farm-fresh ingredients and homemade touch, stands out as a quintessential comfort food that embodies Yoder’s commitment to quality and tradition.
- Step-by-Step Guide: The article offers detailed instructions for recreating Yoder’s apple pie at home, covering everything from gathering ingredients to baking techniques, ensuring an authentic replication.
- Essential Tools: A comprehensive list of the necessary kitchen equipment is provided to help readers achieve the perfect pie, from a pie pan to a pastry blender.
- Preparation Tips: Make-ahead instructions and tips are given to streamline the baking process, allowing for more efficient and enjoyable pie preparation.
- Serving Suggestions: The pie can be enjoyed in various ways such as warm with ice cream, topped with whipped cream, or paired with coffee, enhancing the dessert’s enjoyment through different presentations and accompaniments.
Ingredients
To bring a piece of Yoder’s magic into your kitchen, you need to gather the freshest ingredients. Below are the essential components for both the pie crust and the filling.
Pie Crust Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water
- 6 cups apples, peeled and sliced (Granny Smith recommended)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Equipment Needed
To recreate the taste of Yoder’s classic apple pie, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. These items will help you achieve the perfect crust and filling for this nostalgic dessert.
- Pie Pan: A 9-inch pie pan will give your apple pie the traditional shape and size. Opt for a glass or ceramic pan for even baking.
- Mixing Bowls: Have a set of mixing bowls ready for your different ingredients. You’ll need separate bowls for the pie crust and the apple filling.
- Pastry Blender: This tool helps you mix the pie crust ingredients to achieve a crumbly, flaky texture.
- Rolling Pin: A rolling pin is essential for rolling out your pie dough to the correct thickness. Ensure it’s a standard size and easy to handle.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to a successful pie. Use a full set of measuring cups and spoons for both dry and wet ingredients.
- Peeler: A good quality peeler will save you time and effort when preparing your apples.
- Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for slicing apples evenly, ensuring they cook uniformly.
- Cutting Board: Protect your countertops and have a dedicated cutting board for slicing apples and other ingredients.
- Baking Sheet: Place your pie pan on a baking sheet to catch any drips during baking and make cleanup easier.
- Aluminum Foil or Pie Shield: Use these to cover the edge of your pie crust if it starts to brown too quickly.
Having the right equipment at hand ensures a smooth baking process, letting you focus on creating the delicious flavors of Yoder’s apple pie in your kitchen.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To save time and enhance flavors, you can prepare parts of Yoder’s classic apple pie ahead of time. Follow these steps for smooth preparation and baking later.
Preparing the Pie Dough
- Gather Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in Butter: Using a pastry blender, cut the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Ice Water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing just until the dough begins to come together.
- Form Dough: Divide the dough into two disks, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to 2 days.
- Ingredient List:
- 6 cups thinly sliced, peeled apples (Granny Smith recommended)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Combine Apples and Sugars: In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with granulated sugar, brown sugar, and lemon juice.
- Add Spices and Flour: Sprinkle cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and flour over the apples. Mix well to coat the apples evenly.
- Store Filling: Transfer the filling to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 day.
These make-ahead steps ensure your Yoder’s apple pie will be quick to assemble and bake, allowing you to enjoy delicious results with minimal effort on the baking day.
Directions
Follow these carefully crafted steps to recreate Yoder’s classic apple pie at home, bringing the taste of Amish comfort food to your kitchen.
Prep
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s ready for the pie.
- Prepare Pie Crust: Roll out the pie dough on a lightly floured surface. Fit the dough into a 9-inch pie dish, allowing the excess to hang over the edges. Roll out the second piece of dough for the top crust and set it aside.
- Apple Filling Prep: Core, peel, and slice 6-7 medium apples. Aim for thin, even slices for consistent baking. In a large bowl, combine the apple slices with 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt. Mix until the apples are well-coated.
Assemble
- Fill the Crust: Pour the apple mixture into the crust-lined pie dish. Dot the apples evenly with 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, cut into small pieces.
- Add the Top Crust: Cover the filled pie with the top crust. Trim the excess dough, leaving about 1/2 inch overhang. Fold the edges under and crimp to seal. Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
Baking
- Brush and Sprinkle: Brush the top crust with a beaten egg and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar for a golden, crunchy finish.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie on the middle oven rack and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes. Reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning.
- Cool the Pie: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This helps the filling set, making it easier to slice and serve.
Cook
Baking Yoder’s iconic apple pie is an achievable and rewarding experience. Follow the steps below to create your own delicious pie.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it reaches the correct temperature before you place the pie inside.
- Prepare the Pie Crust: Roll out the prepared dough on a lightly floured surface. Ensure it is about 1/8 inch thick and large enough to fit a 9-inch pie plate. Place the rolled dough into the pie plate, gently pressing it against the sides and bottom.
- Make the Apple Filling: In a large bowl, combine 6 cups of thinly sliced, peeled apples with 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of light brown sugar, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the apple filling into the prepared pie crust, arranging the slices for even distribution. Roll out the second piece of dough and place it over the filling. Trim excess dough, leaving about 1 inch overhang, then fold the edges under and crimp to seal. Cut a few slits into the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Brush the Crust: In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg and 1 tablespoon of water to make an egg wash. Brush this mixture over the top crust and edges of the pie. Sprinkle with 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar for a sparkling finish.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Cool Before Serving: Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This allows the filling to set and makes slicing easier.
Enjoy your homemade Yoder’s inspired apple pie, perfect for any occasion.
Assemble
Now that you have prepared your ingredients, it’s time to bring everything together for a beautiful homemade apple pie.
- Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures your pie bakes evenly with a perfectly golden crust.
- Prepare the Bottom Crust: Roll out one of your chilled dough discs on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 12 inches in diameter and 1/8 inch thick. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently to fit snugly into the bottom and sides. Trim any overhang to about 1 inch.
- Add the Filling: Pour your prepared apple filling into the pastry-lined pie dish, spreading it out evenly. Make sure the apples are evenly distributed for consistent flavor in every bite.
- Top with Crust: Roll out the second dough disc to the same size and thickness as the first. Place it over the apple filling. Trim any overhang, leaving about 1 inch extra around the edges. Pinch the edges together to seal and create a decorative edge by crimping or pressing with a fork.
- Create Vents: Cut several small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy and helps the apples cook evenly.
- Brush with Egg Wash: In a small bowl, beat one egg with a tablespoon of water. Brush this mixture over the top crust to give it a glossy, golden finish.
- Sugar Sprinkle: For an extra touch of sweetness and texture, sprinkle a tablespoon of granulated sugar over the egg wash.
With these simple steps, your pie is assembled and ready to be baked into a delicious treat. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of Yoder’s classic apple pie straight from your oven.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to Yoder’s classic apple pie, you have a myriad of ways to enjoy this comforting dessert.
Warm with Ice Cream
Serve slices of the pie warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy coldness of the ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, spiced apple filling and flaky crust.
Topped with Whipped Cream
Add a dollop of homemade whipped cream on top of each slice. Whip heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. The light and airy texture of the whipped cream adds a subtle sweetness that enhances the pie’s flavors.
Pair with Coffee or Tea
Enjoy a slice alongside a hot cup of coffee or tea. The rich aromas from your beverage will complement the pie’s fragrant spices, making for a cozy and comforting experience.
Drizzled with Caramel Sauce
Elevate your pie by drizzling some warm caramel sauce over the top. The added sweetness and sticky texture make the pie even more decadent and delightful.
Breakfast Treat
Have a slice for breakfast with some Greek yogurt. This unconventional but delicious pairing offers a creamy tartness that balances the pie’s sweetness, making it a delightful morning treat.
By exploring these serving suggestions, you can bring a new level of delight to enjoying Yoder’s classic apple pie.
Conclusion
Yoder’s offers more than just a meal; it provides a comforting experience rooted in tradition and quality. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can recreate Yoder’s classic apple pie in your own kitchen. Whether you enjoy it warm with a scoop of ice cream or as a breakfast treat with Greek yogurt, this pie is sure to bring joy to your table. Embrace the flavors and nostalgia of Amish country with every bite, making your dining experience truly special.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Yoder’s apple pie special?
Yoder’s apple pie stands out due to its use of fresh farm ingredients and a generational recipe that delivers a hearty, comforting dessert. The pie’s balance of flavors and homestyle preparation make it a cherished favorite.
Can I make Yoder’s apple pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Yoder’s apple pie ahead of time. It is ideal for baking the day before serving to allow the flavors to meld, then reheating briefly to enjoy warm.
What ingredients are essential for making Yoder’s apple pie?
The essential ingredients for Yoder’s apple pie include fresh apples, a homemade pie crust, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, butter, and an egg wash for the crust.
How do I prepare the pie crust?
To prepare the pie crust, combine flour, butter, salt, and water. Mix until it forms a dough, then roll it out to fit your pie dish. Ensure to chill the dough before rolling for best results.
What are some serving suggestions for Yoder’s apple pie?
Yoder’s apple pie can be enjoyed warm with ice cream, topped with whipped cream, paired with coffee or tea, drizzled with caramel sauce, or as a breakfast treat with Greek yogurt.
Do I need to create vents in the pie crust?
Yes, creating vents in the pie crust is essential. It allows steam to escape during baking, preventing the pie from becoming soggy and ensuring a perfectly baked crust.
What’s the baking temperature and time for Yoder’s apple pie?
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the apple pie for about 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
Can the apple pie be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze Yoder’s apple pie. Ensure it is fully cooled before wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the fridge before reheating in the oven.
