Apple Pie Recipe

Apple Pie Recipe – Classic, Delicious, and Homemade

ByBella Skye
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Apple Pie Recipe

The Apple Pie Recipe is an iconic dessert that combines tender, caramelized apples with a flaky, buttery crust. This dish has earned its place as a symbol of comfort and celebration because of its irresistible combination of sweetness, warmth, and texture. Fresh apples, cinnamon, and a touch of nutmeg meld together in a filling that is both flavorful and aromatic, while the golden-brown pastry provides a crisp, tender contrast.

More Hearty Desserts

Home cooks love apple pie because it offers versatility: it can be baked in traditional round pie pans, as hand pies, or even in a lattice-topped presentation. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, making it ideal as a family dessert, holiday centerpiece, or casual treat. The charm of an Apple Pie Recipe lies in its simplicity and the opportunity to experiment with flavor variations, from precooked apples for ease to freshly sliced apples for a classic texture. The process of creating the pie from rolling the dough to layering the filling is as satisfying as enjoying the final product.

This apple pie is more than a dessert; it’s an experience. The aroma fills the kitchen, the sight of golden edges and bubbling filling excites the senses, and the first forkful rewards patience and care. For those seeking easy delicious apple pie or a more hands-on baking adventure, this recipe bridges tradition and practicality, making it a must-bookmark guide for home bakers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Apple Pie Recipe is designed to produce consistently excellent results with clear, chef-approved techniques:

  • Perfectly Balanced Flavor
    The filling balances the natural sweetness of apples with warm spices, creating a rich, comforting taste that pleases both adults and children.
  • Flaky, Buttery Crust
    Achieve a tender, golden crust that fluffs and crumbles perfectly with every bite, providing a satisfying contrast to the soft apple filling.
  • Customizable Preparation
    Whether using fresh apples, precooked apples, or a store-bought crust for convenience, this recipe adapts to different skill levels and time constraints.
  • All Occasion Friendly
    From casual family dinners to holiday gatherings, this apple pie works in any setting, making it a reliable recipe for bakers seeking a crowd-pleasing dessert.
  • Step-by-Step Guidance
    Clear instructions ensure that even beginner bakers can create a pie with professional-quality results, turning easy apple pie into an achievable culinary success.

Preparation and Cooking Time, Also Serving

  • Preparation Time: 25–30 minutes
  • Cooking/Baking Time: 50–60 minutes
  • Total Time: 75–90 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
  • 6–8 tablespoons ice water

For the Apple Filling

  • 6–7 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Assembly

  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for sprinkling)

Substitution Notes:

  • Butter can be replaced with shortening or a vegan butter alternative for dairy-free crust.
  • Granulated sugar can be substituted with coconut sugar or maple sugar for a deeper flavor.
  • For ease, use easy apple pie with store-bought crust if short on time.
  • Precooked apples can be used for apple pie recipe precooked apples, reducing cooking time slightly.
Apple Pie Recipe

Step-by-Step Instructions

Special Apple Pie Crust

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in chilled, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Chilling prevents shrinkage and ensures a flaky crust.

Special Apple Pie Crust

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

Peel, core, and slice apples uniformly to ensure even cooking. In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix gently until the apples are evenly coated. The flour helps thicken the filling during baking, while lemon juice balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.

Special Apple Pie Crust

Step 3: Roll Out the Pie Crust

On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disc into a circle large enough to fit your pie pan with an overhang. Transfer to a 9-inch pie pan, pressing gently to fit the bottom and sides. Trim excess edges, leaving about ½-inch overhang. This forms the base of your pie and provides structure for the filling.

Special Apple Pie Crust

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Pour the apple filling into the prepared crust, arranging slices evenly. Roll out the second dough disc for the top crust. You can cover the pie fully or create a lattice pattern. Carefully place the top crust over the filling and seal the edges by crimping or pinching. Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar if desired.

Special Apple Pie Crust

Step 5: Bake the Apple Pie

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake for 20 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35–40 minutes. The crust should be golden brown, and the filling should be bubbling. Let cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set.

Special Apple Pie Crust

Step 6: Serve the Pie

Once cooled, slice the pie with a sharp knife and serve as is, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel drizzle. This elevates the dessert experience and complements the warm spices of the apple filling.

How to Serve

Apple pie is traditionally served warm, allowing the filling to be soft and aromatic while the crust retains its flaky texture. For a classic presentation, place slices on a dessert plate, optionally dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon, and pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Caramel or chocolate drizzle adds an indulgent touch for special occasions, while fresh mint can provide a pop of color for aesthetic appeal.

For casual or family-style servings, slice the pie into wedges and place on a large platter for guests to serve themselves. Apple pie pairs well with hot beverages like coffee, tea, or mulled cider, making it perfect for holiday gatherings, seasonal celebrations, or cozy evenings at home. You can also serve it alongside other sweet dishes recipes for dessert platters or incorporate it into fun baking recipes for children or festive events.

Apple Pie Recipe

Additional Tips

  • Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor.
  • Slice apples uniformly for even baking.
  • Chill the dough before rolling for a tender, flaky crust.
  • Egg wash enhances color and shine on the top crust.
  • Lattice tops allow steam to escape, preventing soggy filling.

Recipe Variations

  • Apple Pie Crisp: Top the apple filling with a crumbly mixture of oats, brown sugar, and butter for a crisp topping.
  • Caramel Apple Pie: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples before adding the top crust for a richer, indulgent flavor.
  • Mini Hand Pies: Use the same filling in small pastry rounds for portable, individual servings.
  • Spiced Apple Pie: Add cardamom or ginger for additional warmth and depth in flavor.

Freezing and Storage

  • To Store: Cool completely, then cover with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
  • To Freeze: Wrap tightly in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
  • To Reheat: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to maintain crust texture.

Nutritional Information (Approximate per slice)

  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 55g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 28g
  • Sodium: 200mg

Final Words

This Apple Pie Recipe combines tradition, flavor, and approachable techniques, allowing home bakers to create a dessert that is both classic and impressive. By following step-by-step instructions, even beginner bakers can achieve a flaky crust, tender apple filling, and beautifully golden pie. The combination of fresh apples, warm spices, and buttery pastry ensures every bite is rich in flavor and texture.

Apple pie is more than a dessert; it’s an experience that connects generations and celebrates the joy of baking. From the first aroma that fills the kitchen to the last bite shared with family or friends, this recipe brings warmth and comfort. Whether preparing easy apple pie with store-bought crust or homemade apple pie recipe from scratch, you’ll enjoy the satisfaction of crafting a dessert that is both visually stunning and delicious.

Experiment with variations, try lattice tops, or top with crumbly crisp for a twist. Incorporate this pie into holiday celebrations, casual family dinners, or autumn pies recipes. Once you master this apple pie recipe fresh apples, it becomes a versatile go-to for every season, a reliable dessert that delivers on flavor and presentation.

FAQ’s

Yes, precooked apples can be used to save time, just reduce baking slightly to prevent overcooking.

Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix are ideal for texture and flavor.

Yes, wrap tightly in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven to maintain crust texture.

Pre-bake the bottom crust slightly, or ensure your apples are coated in flour and that your pie is baked on a lower oven rack.

Absolutely, this recipe can be adapted to individual portions for mini pies or hand pies.

Apple Pie Recipe - Classic, Delicious, and Homemade
Print

Apple Pie Recipe – Classic, Delicious, and Homemade

Recipe by Bella SkyeCourse: Desserts
Servings

8

servings
Prep time

25

minutes
Cooking time

50

minutes
Calories

320

kcal

Ingredients

  • For the Pie Crust

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

  • 6–8 tablespoons ice water

  • For the Apple Filling

  • 6–7 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced

  • ¾ cup granulated sugar

  • ¼ cup brown sugar

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • For Assembly

  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

  • 1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for sprinkling)

Directions

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in chilled, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. Chilling prevents shrinkage and ensures a flaky crust.
  • Peel, core, and slice apples uniformly to ensure even cooking. In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix gently until the apples are evenly coated. The flour helps thicken the filling during baking, while lemon juice balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
  • On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disc into a circle large enough to fit your pie pan with an overhang. Transfer to a 9-inch pie pan, pressing gently to fit the bottom and sides. Trim excess edges, leaving about ½-inch overhang. This forms the base of your pie and provides structure for the filling.
  • Pour the apple filling into the prepared crust, arranging slices evenly. Roll out the second dough disc for the top crust. You can cover the pie fully or create a lattice pattern. Carefully place the top crust over the filling and seal the edges by crimping or pinching. Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar if desired.
  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake for 20 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35–40 minutes. The crust should be golden brown, and the filling should be bubbling. Let cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set.
  • Once cooled, slice the pie with a sharp knife and serve as is, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel drizzle. This elevates the dessert experience and complements the warm spices of the apple filling.

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