🥧 Ingredients and Their Roles

For the Crust:

• $3 \frac{3}{4}$ cups all-purpose flour – The backbone of the dough, providing structure and crispness.
• $\frac{3}{4}$ teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the apples.
• $1 \frac{1}{2}$ cups shortening – Gives the crust its signature flaky texture and rich flavor.
• 1 egg yolk + milk to make 1 cup of liquid – Creates a tender, pliable dough that’s easy to roll and shape.

For the Filling:

• 2–3 handfuls of **Corn Flakes** – A genius trick! They absorb extra juices from the apples, keeping the crust crispy and never soggy.
• 10 Granny Smith apples, sliced and cored – Their tartness perfectly balances the sweetness of the sugar.
• 4–8 tablespoons butter, cubed – Melts into the apples, adding moisture and richness to the filling.
• 1 cup sugar – Sweetens the tart apples just enough without overpowering them.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Adds that comforting, warm spice that defines every great apple pie.

For the Top:

• 1 egg (beaten) – Used for brushing over the crust for a glossy, golden finish.
• 1 teaspoon sugar – Sprinkled on top for a touch of sparkle and sweetness.

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

   In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Cut in the shortening with a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

   In a measuring cup, combine the egg yolk and enough milk to make 1 cup of liquid. Stir it into the flour mixture until a soft dough forms. Divide the dough in half and **chill it** in the refrigerator for about **30 minutes** to make it easier to roll out.

2. Roll and Assemble

   Preheat your oven to **$375^\circ\text{F}\ (190^\circ\text{C})$**.

   Roll out half the dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle (about the size of your baking sheet). Place it onto a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.

   Sprinkle the **Corn Flakes** evenly over the bottom crust—this clever step keeps the bottom perfectly crisp.

3. Add the Apple Filling

   Arrange the sliced apples evenly over the crust. Dot with butter cubes, then sprinkle the sugar and cinnamon over the top. *Adjust sugar to taste depending on how tart your apples are.*

4. Seal and Finish

   Roll out the remaining dough and gently place it over the apples. Trim and crimp the edges to seal.

   Beat the egg and brush it over the top crust for a shiny finish. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon sugar for a sweet, golden sparkle.

5. Bake

   Bake for **40–45 minutes**, or until the crust is beautifully golden and the filling is bubbling slightly around the edges. Allow to **cool completely** before cutting—this helps the filling set and makes it easy to pick up and enjoy by hand.

❤️ Why Everyone Loves This Pie

• **Portable and mess-free** – Ideal for picnics, potlucks, and school lunches.
• **Classic flavor, modern convenience** – You get all the taste of homemade apple pie without needing a plate or fork.
• **Foolproof texture** – The **Corn Flakes trick** ensures no soggy bottoms ever again!

🔥 Pro Tips for Perfect Results

1. **Chill the dough** before rolling—it helps prevent sticking and keeps the crust flaky.
2. Use firm, **tart apples** like Granny Smiths or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and structure.
3. Don’t overfill—a single, even layer of apples ensures even baking and perfect hand-held slices.
4. **Cool completely** before slicing—the filling firms up as it cools, making it easy to serve without drips.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

Serve Mom’s Flat Apple Pie as-is for a sweet, grab-and-go treat, or elevate it with a few delightful additions:

• A drizzle of **caramel sauce** for extra indulgence.
• A scoop of **vanilla ice cream** for that classic pie *à la mode* touch.
• A sprinkle of powdered sugar for a charming, bakery-style presentation.

Pair it with a cup of coffee, cider, or tea, and you’ve got the perfect cozy dessert moment.