Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Gather the ingredients so that you have everything close at hand on the counter or table.
Prepare the Apples
Using a paring knife, peel and core your apples, and then slice to desired thickness. You could also use an apple corer if you have one.
In large microwave-safe bowl, cook the apple slices in microwave for 6-10 minutes, until they are just starting to soften.
Make the Pastry Crust
In medium sized bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour and salt. Add shortening and cut in with a pastry fork until crumbly.
Pour in 1/4 cold cup water and begin to mix the dough. Add the remaining water to finish mixing the dough. Dough should hold together in a ball.
Roll out dough on floured surface the size of your pie plate. For top crust, make slits in the dough so your pie can breath while it is baking. These can be simple slits or intricate designs.
Assemble the Pie
Form bottom crust along the edges and extending over the rim of the pie plate.
Add apple mixture to the bottom crust. Dot apples with bits of butter.
Smooth water along edge of pie crust with fingertips to help seal the pie. Add the top pastry to pie and crimp edges.
Brush whole milk over the top of the pastry and then sprinkle with granulated sugar to make a pretty crust.
Bake on lower oven rack for 50-60 minutes until top crust is golden and filling is bubbling. Serves 8-10.
Notes
*Unless otherwise indicated, all butter on this recipe site is salted.