Copycat McDonald’s Apple Pies: Crispy, Flaky Perfection at Home
Craving that nostalgic taste of McDonald’s apple pies but don’t want to leave the house? Or maybe you’re looking for a healthier, homemade version of this classic treat? Look no further! This copycat recipe delivers all the warm, cinnamon-spiced apple goodness encased in a crispy, flaky crust that you remember, but made with ingredients you can control. We’re going to break down each step, from creating the perfect filling to achieving that signature golden-brown crust, so you can enjoy these delightful pies fresh from your own oven (or air fryer!).
## Why This Copycat Recipe Works
This recipe isn’t just about throwing some apples and spices into a crust. It’s about replicating the *experience* of a McDonald’s apple pie. We’ve taken into account:
* **The Crust:** The signature crust is thin, crispy, and slightly bubbly. We achieve this using a combination of cold butter, shortening (for extra flakiness), and ice water. The key is to not overwork the dough!
* **The Filling:** The filling is sweet, slightly tart, and bursting with cinnamon and apple flavor. We use a blend of apples for a complex taste and a touch of lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
* **The Cooking Method:** While McDonald’s fries their pies, we offer both baking and air frying options for a healthier and more accessible approach. Air frying gets remarkably close to the original fried texture.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we dive into the steps, let’s gather our ingredients. This recipe makes approximately 6 individual pies.
**For the Crust:**
* 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
* 1/2 cup vegetable shortening, cold
* 6-8 tablespoons ice water
**For the Apple Filling:**
* 4 medium apples (a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works well), peeled, cored, and diced
* 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 ground allspice (optional)
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
* 1/4 cup water
**For the Egg Wash (Optional):**
* 1 large egg, beaten
* 1 tablespoon milk or water
## Equipment You’ll Need
* Large mixing bowl
* Pastry blender or food processor (optional)
* Rolling pin
* Pizza cutter or sharp knife
* Fork
* Baking sheet or air fryer basket
* Parchment paper (optional)
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s get baking (or air frying!). Follow these detailed instructions for perfect copycat McDonald’s apple pies.
**Part 1: Making the Crust**
The crust is the foundation of our pie. A good crust is flaky, tender, and holds its shape without becoming soggy. This recipe ensures a perfect balance of these qualities.
1. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. This ensures the salt is evenly distributed throughout the dough.
2. **Cut in the Butter and Shortening:** Add the cold, cubed butter and cold shortening to the flour mixture. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter and shortening into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. You should still see small pieces of butter and shortening – these are crucial for creating flaky layers.
* **Pro Tip:** If using your fingertips, work quickly to prevent the butter from melting. You can also chill the bowl and your hands beforehand.
* **Food Processor Option:** Alternatively, you can use a food processor. Pulse the ingredients together until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Be careful not to over-process.
3. **Add Ice Water:** Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently after each addition. Continue adding water until the dough just comes together. Do not over-mix! Over-mixing will develop the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough crust.
4. **Form the Dough:** Gently gather the dough into a ball. Divide the dough in half, flatten each half into a disc, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This chilling time allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.
**Part 2: Preparing the Apple Filling**
The filling is where the magic happens. We want a sweet, spiced, and slightly thickened filling that complements the crispy crust.
1. **Prepare the Apples:** Peel, core, and dice the apples into small, even pieces. Consistent sizing ensures even cooking.
2. **Combine Filling Ingredients:** In a medium saucepan, combine the diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice (if using), and lemon juice. Stir well to coat the apples evenly with the sugar and spices.
3. **Cook the Filling:** Add the butter and water to the saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the filling has thickened. This usually takes about 10-15 minutes. The flour acts as a thickening agent, creating a luscious, saucy filling.
4. **Cool the Filling:** Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the filling cool completely. Cooling the filling prevents the crust from becoming soggy.
**Part 3: Assembling the Pies**
Now comes the fun part – putting it all together!
1. **Preheat Oven or Air Fryer:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) or your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
2. **Roll Out the Dough:** On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to about 1/8-inch thickness. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut out circles or squares, approximately 4-5 inches in diameter. You’ll need two pieces of dough for each pie – one for the top and one for the bottom.
3. **Assemble the Pies:** Place a dough circle or square on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper (or directly in the air fryer basket). Spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the cooled apple filling onto the center of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. **Top with Dough:** Place another dough circle or square over the filling. Gently press the edges together to seal the pie. You can use a fork to crimp the edges for a decorative look and to ensure a tight seal.
5. **Cut Vents:** Cut a few slits in the top of each pie to allow steam to escape during baking or air frying. This prevents the pies from bursting.
6. **Egg Wash (Optional):** For a golden-brown, glossy finish, brush the tops of the pies with the beaten egg wash.
**Part 4: Baking or Air Frying**
Choose your preferred cooking method for that perfect golden-brown finish.
**Baking Instructions:**
1. **Bake:** Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
2. **Cool:** Let the pies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Air Frying Instructions:**
1. **Air Fry:** Place the pies in the preheated air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching. You may need to cook in batches.
2. **Air Fry:** Air fry for 8-12 minutes, or until the pies are golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Check the pies halfway through and flip them if necessary for even browning.
3. **Cool:** Let the pies cool slightly before serving. Be careful, the filling will be very hot!
## Tips for Success
* **Keep Ingredients Cold:** Cold ingredients are key to a flaky crust. Make sure your butter, shortening, and water are very cold.
* **Don’t Overwork the Dough:** Over-mixing the dough will develop the gluten, resulting in a tough crust. Mix just until the dough comes together.
* **Use a Variety of Apples:** A combination of sweet and tart apples creates a more complex and flavorful filling.
* **Cool the Filling Completely:** Cooling the filling prevents the crust from becoming soggy.
* **Seal the Edges Well:** A good seal prevents the filling from leaking out during baking or air frying.
* **Adjust Baking Time:** Baking and air frying times may vary depending on your oven or air fryer. Keep an eye on the pies and adjust the time accordingly.
* **Make Ahead:** The dough can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before using. The apple filling can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
## Variations and Adaptations
* **Add Spices:** Experiment with different spices, such as ginger, cardamom, or cloves.
* **Use Different Fruits:** Try using other fruits, such as peaches, berries, or cherries.
* **Add Nuts:** Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for extra crunch.
* **Make it Vegan:** Use vegan butter and shortening for the crust and replace the egg wash with plant-based milk.
* **Fry the Pies:** For a truly authentic McDonald’s experience, you can fry the pies in hot oil until golden brown. Be careful when working with hot oil.
## Serving Suggestions
These copycat McDonald’s apple pies are delicious served warm or at room temperature. Here are a few serving suggestions:
* **Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
* **Drizzle with caramel sauce or chocolate sauce.
* **Dust with powdered sugar.
* **Enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea.
## Nutrition Information (Approximate, per pie)
* Calories: 350-400
* Fat: 20-25g
* Saturated Fat: 12-15g
* Cholesterol: 30-40mg
* Sodium: 200-250mg
* Carbohydrates: 40-45g
* Fiber: 2-3g
* Sugar: 20-25g
* Protein: 3-4g
(Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
## Conclusion
With this copycat McDonald’s apple pie recipe, you can enjoy the classic taste of these beloved treats anytime you want, right in your own kitchen. Whether you bake them in the oven or air fry them to crispy perfection, these homemade pies are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your friends and family. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a taste of nostalgia!
Happy Baking (or Air Frying)!