Classic Apple Pie with Lemon Cream Filling

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### Instructions for Classic Apple Pie with Lemon Cream Filling

#### Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
1. **Combine the Dry Ingredients**: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. **Cut in the Butter**: Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. **Add the Ice Water**: Slowly add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to come together. You may need 6-8 tablespoons of water, depending on the humidity and flour.
4. **Chill the Dough**: Divide the dough into two portions (one slightly larger for the bottom crust). Flatten each portion into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

#### Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
1. **Mix the Apples**: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with the sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Toss the apples gently to coat evenly, and set aside to let the flavors meld.

#### Step 3: Prepare the Lemon Cream Filling
1. **Whisk the Cream and Cream Cheese**: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Set aside in the refrigerator until ready to assemble.

#### Step 4: Assemble the Pie
1. **Roll Out the Pie Crust**: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie pan and press it gently into place. Trim any excess dough along the edges.
2. **Add the Apple Filling**: Pour the apple mixture into the pie crust, spreading the apples evenly.
3. **Roll Out the Top Crust**: Roll out the second disc of dough into a circle large enough to cover the pie. Place it over the apples, and trim the edges, leaving about an inch of dough. Crimp the edges together to seal the pie. Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
4. **Brush and Sprinkle**: Brush the top crust with melted butter, and sprinkle with sugar for a sweet, golden finish.

#### Step 5: Bake the Pie
1. **Preheat the Oven**: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. **Bake the Pie**: Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil.
3. **Cool the Pie**: Once baked, allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the filling set.

#### Step 6: Add the Lemon Cream Filling
1. **Top with Lemon Cream**: After the pie has cooled, spread a generous layer of the lemon cream filling over the top. You can use a spatula to smooth it out evenly or pipe it on for a more decorative touch.

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### Tips for the Best Apple Pie with Lemon Cream Filling

– **Choosing the Right Apples**: Granny Smith apples are a great choice for pies due to their tartness and firm texture. Honeycrisp apples provide a nice sweetness, but feel free to use your favorite variety.
– **Keep the Crust Cold**: Chilling the dough before rolling it out helps create a flakier crust. It also prevents the dough from shrinking during baking.
– **Make Ahead**: You can prepare the pie crust and apple filling the day before. Store the crust in the refrigerator and keep the apple filling in an airtight container until you’re ready to bake.
– **Serving Tip**: This pie is delicious on its own, but a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream would be the perfect finishing touch!

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### Conclusion

This **Classic Apple Pie with Lemon Cream Filling** is a delightful twist on a beloved dessert. The combination of the tangy lemon cream with the sweet, spiced apple filling creates a flavor explosion that will have everyone coming back for more. Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a casual family dinner, this pie is sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation. Try it today and indulge in the perfect balance of comfort and elegance!