Apple pie is the quintessential American dessert, beloved for its buttery, flaky crust and warm, spiced apple filling. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply enjoying a cozy evening, this homemade apple pie recipe will be the star of the show. With its perfect balance of sweet and tart apples, complemented by aromatic spices, this apple pie is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
For the Pie Crust:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
For the Apple Filling:
6 to 7 cups tart apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
For the Egg Wash:
1 large egg
1 tablespoon milk
Directions:
Make the Pie Crust:
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together.
Divide the dough into two disks, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour.
Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and lemon juice.
Set the mixture aside while you prepare the crust.
Assemble the Pie:
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Roll out one disk of dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie plate.
Transfer the dough to the pie plate and trim the edges.
Add the apple filling, mounding slightly in the center.
Dot the filling with cubed butter.
Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the apple filling.
Trim the edges, leaving a 1/2-inch overhang. Fold the overhang under the bottom crust and crimp to seal.
Cut slits in the top crust for steam to escape, or create a lattice pattern if desired.
Egg Wash and Bake:
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk for the egg wash.
Brush the egg wash over the top crust.
Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
Bake for 20 minutes at 425°F (220°C), then reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil.
Cool and Serve:
Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing to allow the filling to set.
Serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for the ultimate dessert experience.
Serving Tips:
Serve Warm or Room Temperature: Apple pie is delicious served either warm or at room temperature. If you prefer it warm, heat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or reheat the whole pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Top with Ice Cream or Whipped Cream: For a special touch, serve apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of freshly whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Pair with a Hot Beverage: Apple pie is perfect with a hot drink, such as coffee, tea, or a warm spiced cider, especially during the fall and winter months.
Slice Neatly: Use a sharp knife to slice the pie neatly after it has cooled for a couple of hours. This ensures that the filling holds its shape and doesn’t spill out.
Storage Tips:
Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the pie within a couple of days, store it at room temperature, loosely covered with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap. It will stay fresh for about 2-3 days.
Refrigeration: To keep your apple pie fresh for longer, store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out.
Freezing: Apple pie can be frozen for up to 3 months. To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to eat, bake it from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 45-60 minutes, until heated through and the crust is golden.
Reheating: If you have leftover pie, the best way to reheat it is in the oven. Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the filling is warm and the crust is crispy. You can also reheat slices in the microwave, but be mindful of the crust texture.
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FAQs:
Can I use different types of apples for the filling?
Yes, you can use different types of apples for the filling! A mix of tart apples like Granny Smith and sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji works best for a balanced flavor. Tart apples hold their shape during baking, while sweet apples add a delicious natural sweetness to the pie.
How do I prevent my pie crust from becoming soggy?
To prevent a soggy crust, make sure to thoroughly chill the dough before baking. You can also brush the bottom crust with a thin layer of beaten egg white before adding the apple filling. This creates a barrier that helps keep the crust from absorbing excess moisture. Baking the pie at a high initial temperature (425°F/220°C) also helps to set the crust and prevent sogginess.
Can I make the apple pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can make apple pie ahead of time! Prepare the pie and assemble it as usual, but instead of baking it immediately, cover and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can bake the pie in advance, let it cool completely, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat it in the oven before serving.
How do I know when my apple pie is done baking?
Your apple pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the slits or lattice on top. If you’re unsure, you can insert a knife into the filling to check if the apples are tender. If it comes out clean and the pie is golden, it’s ready to be taken out of the oven!
Conclusion:
Whether you’re new to baking or an experienced home cook, this classic apple pie recipe will be a hit every time. Enjoy the irresistible aroma of freshly baked pie and the comforting flavors of fall, no matter the season!
📖 Recipe:
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Apple Pie
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic homemade Apple Pie recipe features a buttery, flaky crust filled with tender, spiced apples. Perfect for any occasion, this traditional dessert balances sweet and tart flavors, making it a family favorite. Whether served with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, this apple pie will be a crowd-pleaser at holidays, gatherings, or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
For the Apple Filling:
6 to 7 cups tart apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup packed brown sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
For the Egg Wash:
1 large egg
1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
- Make the Pie Crust: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until the dough just comes together. Divide into two disks, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Prepare the Apple Filling: Toss the apple slices with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and lemon juice. Set aside.
- Assemble the Pie: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one disk of dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Add the apple filling and dot with cubed butter. Roll out the second disk of dough and cover the pie. Crimp the edges and cut slits in the top crust.
- Egg Wash and Bake: Whisk egg and milk for the egg wash. Brush the top crust with the mixture. Bake for 20 minutes at 425°F, then reduce to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 40-50 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let cool before serving.
Notes
Apple Selection: A mix of tart Granny Smith apples and sweet Honeycrisp or Fuji apples creates the perfect balance of flavor.
Crust Tips: Chilling the dough before rolling out helps create a flakier, more tender crust.
Storage: Store leftover pie at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the pie for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat the pie in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual slices for 15-20 seconds.
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8 slices
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per slice
