SUNFLOWER APPLE PIE

Sunflower Apple Pie image

Provided by Mary Nell Forester

Time 1h5m

Number Of Ingredients 13

pie crust
2 c all purpose flour
1 tsp salt
2/3 c vegetable shortening or lard
1/2 c ice water
apple filling
6 to 8 firm tart apples about 3 cups,pared cored and sliced
1/2 to 3/4 c brown or white sugar
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1 Tbsp flour
1 Tbsp butter

Steps:

1. prepare the pastry this recipe will make enough pie crust for a two crust pie. Mix the shortening salt and flour together quickly with a pastry blender ( I use my hands) do not over handle it. until it is about the size of peas. add the ice water by tablespoons until the dough comes together and you and pat it into a ball. Do not knead it. Divide it in half and roll out the bottom crust and place it in a deep dish pie plate. Add your apples and cover with the sugar salt and spices. sprinkle the flour over the top of the apples and break up the tablespoon of butter dotting it over the top of the apples.
2. Make top for pie by rolling out the remaining dough. To make the Sunflower Pie cut leaves out of the dough and start on the outside of the edge of the crust making a layer of leaves around the edges sealing them slightly to the edge of the bottom crust continue to layer the same manner until you reach the center. Cut a small circle and place in the very center to form the center of the flower. This is a bit of a job but the results are beautiful! Sprinkle the top with sugar or brush with beaten egg for a glossy finish. Bake at 425 about 50 minutes. if your oven browns to much bake at 450 for 10 minutes then reduce the heat to 375 and continue baking until the pie is done.