Apple Pies

Directions

1. 1
   Sift flour into a bowl. Cut in butter until mixture resembles breadcrumbs. Add 3/4 cup sugar and ground almonds. Add whole egg and enough water to form a firm, pliable dough. Knead into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 30 mins.
2. 2
   Meanwhile, to make filling, combine apples in a saucepan with 1/2 cup water, 1/4 cup sugar, cinnamon and lemon zest. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 4-5 mins, until almost tender. Drain excess liquid. Set aside to cool.
3. 3
   Preheat oven to 400°F. Grease 8 - 4 inch pie dishes. Roll out 2/3 of dough and use to line pie dishes. Trim dough and prick bases with a fork. Place on a baking tray and bake for 8-10 mins, until golden. Let cool.
4. 4
   Reduce heat to 350°F. Distribute filling between pie shells. Roll out remaining dough and cut into rounds. Brush edges of pie with egg white then cover pies with dough, trimming edges. Brush tops with egg white and sprinkle with remaining sugar. Cut vent holes and bake for 15-20 mins, until golden. Serve warm with whipped cream.