Homemade Apple Pie Recipe
There is something truly magical about a warm, comforting slice of pie fresh from the oven, and this Homemade Apple Pie Recipe delivers exactly that with every bite. Packed with tender apples bursting with cinnamon-spiced sweetness encased in a flaky, buttery crust, it strikes the perfect balance between classic and cozy. Whether you’re baking it for a holiday, a family gathering, or just a casual weekend treat, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a nostalgic dessert that feels like a heartfelt hug from the inside out.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this pie lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that iconic blend of textures and flavors. From the crisp apples to the flaky crust and just the right touch of spice, these essentials come together effortlessly to make a pie that tastes like homemade love.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy but tender base for your pie crust.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: The secret to a flaky, melt-in-your-mouth crust.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances the flavors and enhances the butteriness of the crust.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Adds a hint of sweetness to the dough.
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water: Helps bind the dough while keeping it cold to ensure flakiness.
- 6 cups thinly sliced apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best for a perfect tart-sweet filling.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the apples without overpowering their natural flavor.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like richness to the filling.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the filling so it’s not runny after baking.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Brings cozy warmth and a classic apple pie taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle hint of spice to elevate the flavor profile.
- 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice: Infuses the filling with aromatic depth.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the flavors and keeps the apples from browning.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed: Dots of butter enrich the filling, making it silky and luscious.
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Creates a golden, glossy crust that’s oh-so-inviting.
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling): Adds a sparkling, slightly crunchy finish on top.
How to Make Homemade Apple Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by combining the flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl to create a balanced, flavorful base. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs—this is what will give you that signature flakiness. Slowly add ice water one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork it. Divide the dough into two disks, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and chill for at least one hour to rest and firm up the butter.
Step 2: Make the Filling
While the dough chills, toss your thinly sliced apples in a large bowl with the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and lemon juice. This mixture infuses the apples with just the right amount of sweetness and spice while the flour helps thicken the filling as it bakes. Let the apples sit for about 15 minutes so all those flavors can mingle and the sugar can start drawing out their juices.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one disk of dough on a floured surface until it’s large enough to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Carefully transfer it to the pan, trimming any excess dough around the edges. Spoon the apple filling evenly into the crust, then dot the filling with little cubes of butter for pockets of rich flavor. Next, roll out the second dough disk and lay it over the fruits. Trim the edges and crimp them together to seal in all that goodness. Don’t forget to cut a few slits on top to let steam escape while baking.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
Brush the top crust with beaten egg for a gorgeous golden finish and sprinkle lightly with sugar for a touch of sparkle. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the crust is golden brown and you can see the filling bubbling up enticingly. Once out of the oven, let the pie cool for at least two hours to allow the filling to set — patience pays off with every heavenly slice.
How to Serve Homemade Apple Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of freshly whipped cream can enhance this Homemade Apple Pie Recipe without overpowering that classic taste. For an extra touch, a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting slowly on a warm slice creates an irresistible dessert experience that everyone will rave about.
Side Dishes
Pair your apple pie with a robust cup of coffee or a calming herbal tea to balance the sweet and spicy notes. If it’s a festive occasion, a glass of bubbly cider or a smooth dessert wine can elevate your serving into a truly memorable meal finale.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Serve slices of your homemade pie in pretty individual plates garnished with a sprig of mint or a few fresh berries. Alternatively, plate it alongside a drizzle of caramel or a sprinkle of toasted nuts for a modern twist on a traditional favorite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Homemade Apple Pie Recipe keeps beautifully covered at room temperature for up to two days, where the crust remains delightfully crisp. For longer storage, wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to four days—just be sure to let slices return to room temperature before enjoying to bring out the full flavors.
Freezing
You can freeze the pie either before baking or after it has cooled. Wrap it well with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, then store for up to three months. For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Warm slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 to 20 minutes to refresh the crust’s flakiness and heat the filling. Microwaving works in a pinch but may soften the crust—oven reheating keeps that delightful texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this pie?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are ideal for their tartness and texture, you can mix in softer apples like Fuji or Gala for a sweeter, more mellow pie. Just be mindful of the moisture content, which can affect the filling consistency.
Is it possible to make this pie gluten-free?
Yes, with some modifications. You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend suitable for baking. Be sure to check that your flour blend contains xanthan gum or another binder for the best crust texture.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
One trick is to ensure the apples are tossed with flour or cornstarch to absorb excess liquid, and using cold butter in the crust helps create flaky layers that resist sogginess. Also, baking the pie on a lower oven rack can help the bottom crust get crispy.
Can I prepare the pie ahead and bake it later?
Definitely! After assembling the pie, cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld nicely and gives you the convenience of preparing ahead of time.
What’s the best way to slice and serve the pie?
Use a sharp, serrated knife to make clean cuts through the crust and filling. Wiping the knife between slices helps keep the servings neat. Serve with your preferred garnishes for a polished presentation.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of pulling a perfectly baked, golden crusted apple pie from your own oven. This Homemade Apple Pie Recipe is a delightful way to celebrate simple ingredients transformed into something unforgettable. Give it a try, and you might just discover a new family favorite that warms hearts and fills your kitchen with the sweetest aromas.
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Homemade Apple Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This homemade apple pie recipe features a buttery, flaky crust filled with a spiced apple mixture, perfect for a classic dessert. Using fresh Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples, combined with cinnamon and warm spices, this pie offers a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 6–8 tablespoons ice water
Filling
- 6 cups thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
Finishing
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Form the dough: Add ice water one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until a dough forms. Divide the dough into two disks, wrap each in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Prepare the filling: In a separate bowl, toss the thinly sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and lemon juice. Let the mixture sit for 15 minutes to combine flavors and release juices.
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
- Roll out the bottom crust: On a floured surface, roll out one dough disk and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim any excess edges.
- Add filling: Pour the prepared apple mixture into the crust-lined pan and dot the filling evenly with cubed butter.
- Roll out and add top crust: Roll out the second dough disk and place it over the apples. Trim edges, crimp to seal, and cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Apply egg wash and sugar: Brush the top crust with beaten egg to create a shiny, golden finish and sprinkle with sugar if desired for extra sweetness and texture.
- Bake the pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Cool before serving: Allow the pie to cool for about 2 hours so the filling can set, making it easier to slice and enhancing flavor.
Notes
- Use cold butter and ice water to ensure the crust remains flaky.
- Choosing tart apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp provides a good balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Letting the filling sit allows the fruit to macerate and the spices to meld.
- Cooling the pie completely before serving helps the filling set and improves sliceability.
- Egg wash enhances the crust’s color and texture but can be omitted for a vegan version (also substitute butter accordingly).
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
