Do apples need to be cooked before you make apple pie?

Here's why:

* Flavor & Texture: Cooking apples softens them and releases their juices, which creates a saucy filling. This is great for pies, but it also changes the texture and flavor of the apples. Some people prefer a more firm and tart apple pie filling.

* Easy: Using raw apples is simpler and faster. You just need to peel, core, and slice them.

* Flavor Combinations: The sweetness and tartness of raw apples can be balanced with the sweetness of the pie crust and sugar.

However, there are some advantages to cooking apples before making pie:

* Less Shrinkage: Cooking the apples beforehand helps to prevent them from shrinking too much during baking.

* More Evenly Cooked: Pre-cooking can ensure the apples are cooked through and tender.

* More Flavorful: Some people prefer the flavor of cooked apples in their pie.

Ultimately, whether you cook your apples before making pie is a matter of personal preference. Experiment and find what you like best!