STEP 1: MAKE THE PIE CRUST

Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the chilled, diced butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Add Ice Water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork it; you want to keep the butter chunks intact for a flaky crust.

Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape each into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting period allows the gluten to relax and helps prevent shrinkage during baking.

STEP 2: PREHEAT THE OVEN

While the dough is chilling, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature will help create a perfectly baked crust.

STEP 3: PREPARE THE FILLING

Prepare the Apples: Peel and slice the apples into thin wedges. In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and cornstarch. Make sure the apples are well coated to ensure even flavor.

Add Walnuts: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, allowing them to distribute evenly throughout the filling.

STEP 4: ROLL OUT THE DOUGH

Once the dough has chilled, remove one disk from the refrigerator. On a lightly floured surface, roll it out into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Carefully transfer the rolled dough to a 9-inch pie pan, pressing it into the bottom and sides.

STEP 5: ADD THE FILLING

Pour the apple-walnut filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Be sure to pack the filling slightly to prevent gaps.

STEP 6: TOP WITH SECOND CRUST

Roll out the second disk of dough in the same manner as the first. You can either place it whole over the filling or cut it into strips for a lattice top. If using a whole crust, cut a few slits in the top to allow steam to escape.

STEP 7: SEAL AND CRIMP

If using a whole crust, seal the edges by crimping with your fingers or a fork. This not only looks pretty but also prevents the filling from bubbling over.

STEP 8: ADD A CRUST WASH

For a beautiful golden color, brush the top crust with an egg wash made of one beaten egg mixed with a tablespoon of milk. This step adds shine and enhances the pie’s appearance.

STEP 9: BAKE THE PIE

Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.

STEP 10: COOL THE PIE

Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This cooling period helps the filling set, making it easier to slice.