Chef John's Caramelized Apple Pie

Gather all necessary components for the recipe.

Preheat your oven to a high temperature of 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius).

Combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, softened butter, water, ground cinnamon, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then remove it from the heat and set it aside temporarily.

Unroll half of the pastry dough to fit a standard 9-inch pie dish. Place the bottom crust into the pie plate; fill it with sliced apples.

Unroll the remaining pastry dough and shape it into a 10-inch circle. Cut the dough into 8 equal strips, approximately 1 inch wide, using a sharp knife or pastry wheel.

Interweave the pastry strips one at a time to create a lattice design. Fold the ends of each strip under the edge of the bottom crust and press to secure with a crimping motion.

Pour the sugar-butter mixture over the top of the pie, coating the lattice design and allowing any remaining sauce to seep through the crust.

Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. Reduce the heat to a moderate temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175 degrees Celsius), and continue baking until the crust is golden brown, the caramelized topping is set, and the apple filling is bubbling, taking an additional 35 to 40 minutes. Allow the pie to cool completely before serving.