It's Apple Season

Heading to the apple orchard is a favorite Fall pastime for most us in these parts.

We have many orchards around us so we make at least one trip a year.  And, if you're lucky, not only will you be bringing home some delicious apples, but you will be toting a bag of warm apple cider donuts as well.  I bet you can smell the cinnamon sugar right now - can't you?!?!

So - what to do with all of those apples.  

How about an easy apple pie filling that you can put into the freezer now and pull out say around Thanksgiving.  Did I mention that it is EASY?

Here's what to do:

for each 9-inch pie you will need -
3 cups peeled and sliced apples (about 3 to 4 medium apples - I find mixing tart and sweet apples together give the best flavor)
1 Tablespoon flour
1/3 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
a couple of pats of butter

Mix all of the ingredients together except for the butter.  Pour into a quart size freezer bag (or use your vacuum sealer).  Add the pats of butter and seal up - removing as much air as possible.  Now put that gem in your freezer. 

Easy - right!

When you're ready for pie, remove the filling and thaw overnight in the refrigerator.  Place your pie crust in your baking dish - homemade or store-bought (no judgement here - I've done both!) and dust the bottom crust with just a little bit of flour.  Add your filling and top with your second pie crust.  Crimp the edges and cut slits in the top to allow the steam to escape.  Brush the top crust with a little bit of milk and dust with a bit of sugar.

Bake in a preheated 400 degree oven for about 50 minutes.  
And voila - you have pie.  

I hope you try and enjoy this.  Now it's your turn - what is your favorite apple recipe?