Apple pie is one of the most beloved desserts in the world, known for its sweet and comforting flavors. This classic dessert has its roots deeply embedded in American culture, often associated with home, family gatherings, and celebrations. The combination of tender, spiced apples baked inside a flaky pie crust creates a dish that is not only delicious but also nostalgic.
Making apple pie at home may seem intimidating, but it’s quite simple. With just a few ingredients and some patience, you can create a pie that will impress your family and friends. The aroma of the baking apples and cinnamon will fill your kitchen, making it the perfect treat for any occasion. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled, apple pie offers a delightful taste that is hard to resist. So roll up your sleeves, grab some apples, and get ready to enjoy one of the best desserts ever!
Why make this recipe
Apple pie is a classic dessert that brings comfort and joy to any table. It’s perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or simply when you want to treat yourself. Making your own apple pie allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring it’s just how you like it. The combination of sweet and tart apples with spices creates a rich flavor profile. Plus, baking an apple pie fills your home with a delicious aroma, making it an enjoyable experience from start to finish.
How to make Apple Pie
Ingredients
1 Perfect Pie Crust Recipe
¼ cup butter
8 cups thinly sliced apples (peeled and cored)
2/3 cup lightly packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1 teaspoon lemon juice
¼ teaspoon salt
1 egg
1 teaspoon water
Coarse sugar (optional)
Directions
Set aside a 9-inch pie plate and preheat the oven to 425°F. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the apples, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, lemon juice, and salt. Stir together and cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften, about 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from the heat and set aside to cool.
Meanwhile, divide the prepared pie dough in half (if not already in 2 discs) and lightly flour a work surface. Roll one disc of dough out to around 1/8-inch thick, a bit larger than your pie plate. Transfer the rolled sheet of dough into the pie plate, gently pushing it into the bottom.
Make the egg wash by whisking together the egg and water in a small bowl. Set aside.
Transfer the cooled cooked pie filling into the prepared crust. Roll the other disc of pie dough out onto a lightly floured surface and place it on top of the pie. Alternatively, cut the rolled pie dough into strips using a pizza cutter and braid the top layer. Cut vents in the pie crust if not braiding. Trim the excess dough hanging over the sides and crimp the edges of the pie with your fingers to seal.
Lightly brush the top of the pie with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired. Bake the pie for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the temperature to 350°F and continue baking until golden brown and the apple pie filling bubbles through the vents, about 40 minutes. Place a piece of aluminum foil over the pie during cooking if the crust starts to get too brown. Allow the pie to cool before serving.
How to serve Apple Pie
Apple pie is best served warm or at room temperature. You can slice it and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a twist, consider drizzling caramel sauce on top or serving it alongside a warm beverage like cider or tea. Enjoying a slice of apple pie brings a smile to anyone’s face.
How to store Apple Pie
To store apple pie, let it cool completely, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Frozen apple pie can last for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply bake it in the oven until warmed through.
Tips to make Apple Pie
- Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavor. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work well together.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice; it enhances the taste of the apples and prevents browning.
- If your crust is too soft, chill it in the fridge for 20-30 minutes before rolling it out.
- Always cut vents in the top crust to allow steam to escape, preventing a soggy pie.
- For a shiny finish, brush the crust with egg wash before baking.
Variation
You can customize your apple pie in various ways. For a spiced version, add nutmeg or allspice to the filling. For an extra crunch, mix in some chopped nuts or oats. You can also try adding raisins or cranberries for a tangy twist. If you prefer a crumble topping instead of a pie crust, replace the top layer with a streusel made of flour, butter, and oats.
FAQs
Can I use frozen apples?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before adding them to the pie.What types of apples are best for apple pie?
A mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji, works best for a flavorful pie.How can I prevent a soggy crust?
Make sure to bake the pie at a high temperature initially, and you can pre-bake the bottom crust for a few minutes before adding the filling.Can I make the pie crust ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie crust up to 2 days in advance or freeze it for longer storage.Is it necessary to add sugar?
Sugar helps balance the tartness of the apples, but you can reduce it based on your preference or use alternative sweeteners.
Apple Pie
A classic American dessert made with tender, spiced apples baked inside a flaky pie crust.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 1 Perfect Pie Crust Recipe
- ¼ cup butter
- 8 cups thinly sliced apples (peeled and cored)
- 2/3 cup lightly packed brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon water
- Coarse sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Set aside a 9-inch pie plate and preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Melt the butter in a large pot over medium-low heat.
- Add the apples, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, lemon juice, and salt. Cook until the apples soften, about 8 to 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool.
- Divide the prepared pie dough in half and roll one disc to about 1/8-inch thick.
- Transfer the rolled dough into the pie plate.
- Make the egg wash by whisking the egg and water together.
- Transfer the cooled apple filling into the prepared crust.
- Roll out the second disc of dough and place on top, or cut into strips to create a braid.
- Cut vents in the pie crust and crimp the edges to seal.
- Brush the pie with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar (if desired).
- Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce to 350°F and bake until golden brown and bubbly, about 40 minutes.
- Allow to cool before serving.
Notes
Best served warm or at room temperature with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Linda shares simple, family-friendly desserts with a playful twist — mostly cakes and cookies you can bake on busy days.
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