Potluck Pass-Along Apple Pie

In the hustle and bustle of harvesting all the ripe fruit from the orchard and garden, time for elaborate cooking takes a back burner in my kitchen. That’s why I love the recipe for Potluck Pass-Along Apple Pie so much. It’s super-quick, uses ingredients I always have on hand, and it never fails me. Every time I bake it and take it, someone asks for the recipe. Its mix of varieties — tart, sweet, and firm — creates the most delicious pie. I usually use Jonagold or Jonathan, Golden Delicious, and Idared or Northern Spy, depending on what’s in season.

1. Preheat oven to 177° C (350° F). Lightly oil or spray a pie plate. Quarter and core the apples, but do not peel. Slice the apples about .6 cm (¼ inch) thick.

2. Alternating varieties, fill the pie plate two-thirds full with sliced apples. (A little extra does not hurt. This recipe is very forgiving.) Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of the sugar and the cinnamon over the apple slices.

3. Mix together the flour, remaining 1 cup sugar, butter, egg, nuts, salt, and vanilla to make a thick batter. Pour and spread it evenly over the apples.

4. Bake until the pie is golden brown, about 45 minutes. If you use particularly juicy or extra apples, the pie may need to bake a few extra minutes. Allow to cool slightly before serving. This is fine served cold and is easy to take to a picnic or potluck. Enjoy!