Prepare the Pie Dough
In a large bowl, mix 2½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon sugar. Add the cold cubed butter and cut it into the flour using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
Slowly add ice water (1 tablespoon at a time) and mix until the dough begins to come together. Form the dough into a ball, divide it into two portions, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Prepare the Plum Filling
Wash, pit, and slice the fresh plums. Place them in a large bowl.
Add:
¾ cup sugar
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
Gently mix everything together until the plums are evenly coated. Set the filling aside while you roll the dough.
Roll Out the Bottom Crust
Lightly flour your work surface and roll out one portion of the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle.
Carefully place it into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough around the edges.
Add the Plum Filling
Pour the prepared plum mixture into the pie crust. Spread it evenly.
Dot the filling with small pieces of butter. This adds richness and helps the filling become smooth and flavorful during baking.
Roll and Place the Top Crust
Roll out the second portion of dough into another 12-inch circle.
Place it over the plum filling. Trim the edges and crimp them together with your fingers or a fork to seal the pie.
Cut 4–5 small slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
Brush the Top (Optional)
Brush the top crust lightly with 1 tablespoon milk and sprinkle 1 tablespoon sugar over the surface.
This helps create a golden, slightly crisp crust.
Bake the Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place the pie on the middle rack and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the crust turns golden brown and the filling begins to bubble through the slits.
If the crust edges brown too quickly, cover them lightly with foil.
Cool Before Serving
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 2 hours. This allows the filling to set properly and makes slicing easier.
Slice and Enjoy
Once cooled, slice the plum pie and serve. It’s delicious on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.