Are you craving a comforting dessert that's both incredibly delicious and surprisingly easy to make? Look no further than this homemade cinnamon pie recipe! Forget those store-bought versions – this recipe will transport you to a cozy kitchen filled with the warm aroma of cinnamon and the satisfying crunch of a perfectly baked crust. This recipe is perfect for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike, offering a delicious and satisfying treat for any occasion. It's a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals (in moderation, of course!).
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup ice water
For the Filling:
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Making the Crust:
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt.
- Cut in butter: Add the chilled butter cubes and use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Work quickly to prevent the butter from melting.
- Add water: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing lightly until the dough just comes together. Don't overmix.
- Chill the dough: Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the gluten to relax, resulting in a more tender crust.
- Roll and bake: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate. Trim and crimp the edges. Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent bubbling. You can pre-bake the crust for 10-12 minutes at 375°F (190°C) if desired, this helps prevent a soggy bottom.
Making the Filling:
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Add wet ingredients: Stir in the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Pour into crust: Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until the filling is set and the crust is golden brown. If the crust begins to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil.
- Cool: Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set properly and prevents a messy slice.
Tips for the Best Cinnamon Pie:
- Use cold ingredients: Cold butter is crucial for a flaky crust.
- Don't overmix the dough: Overmixing develops the gluten, resulting in a tough crust.
- Blind baking (optional): Pre-baking the crust helps prevent a soggy bottom, especially if you're using a very juicy filling.
- Let it cool: Patience is key! Allowing the pie to cool completely ensures a clean slice and prevents a runny filling.
Variations:
- Apple Cinnamon Pie: Add 2-3 cups of thinly sliced apples to the filling for a delicious apple cinnamon twist.
- Pecan Cinnamon Pie: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans to the filling for added texture and flavor.
- Spiced Cinnamon Pie: Experiment with other warm spices like cardamom or allspice.
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 18-22g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 45-50g
- Protein: Approximately 4-5g
This cinnamon pie recipe offers a delightful homemade experience. From its rich, warm flavors to the satisfyingly flaky crust, it's a dessert that will surely become a family favorite. Whether you're searching for quick dinner ideas or looking to impress guests with delicious dishes, this recipe is a winner. Enjoy!