The comforting aroma of warm, baking apple pie uniquely captures the essence of cozy, home-cooked indulgence. Often associated with autumn harvests and family gatherings, apple pie holds a special place in many culinary traditions, especially in America where it is synonymous with celebration and comfort. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this quintessential apple pie recipe will ensure your pie turns out perfectly every time.

#### Ingredients:

**For the Pie Crust:**
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
– 4-8 tablespoons ice water

**For the Filling:**
– 6 cups thinly sliced and peeled apples (about 6 medium-sized apples; a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works beautifully)
– 3/4 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– A pinch of ground cloves (optional)
– Juice of half a lemon
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, to dot
– Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water)

#### Directions:

**Prepare the Pie Crust:**
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Add chilled butter pieces.
2. Using a pastry blender or your fingers, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, tablespoon by tablespoon, mixing until the dough just begins to clump together.
4. Divide the dough into two halves. Flatten each half into a disk and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least an hour.

**Prepare the Filling:**
1. In a large bowl, toss apples with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves (if using), and lemon juice.
2. Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

**Assemble the Pie:**
1. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer it into a pie plate.
3. Spoon the apple filling into the crust and dot with bits of butter.
4. Roll out the second disk of dough and lay it over the filling; trim excess dough from the edges then pinch them closed.
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By following this simple yet detailed recipe, you’ll create not just any apple pie but an iconic dessert that might just become part of your signature repertoire! Whether served at holiday feasts or casual dinners alike – nothing beats sharing slices delicious homemade masterpiece amongst loved ones!