Few things bring as much comfort as the smell of homemade apple pie drifting from the oven. With its flaky golden crust and warm, cinnamon-spiced filling, this classic dessert feels like a hug on a plate. Whether it’s for Sunday supper, holiday gatherings, or simply to celebrate the beauty of fall apples, this recipe is easy enough for beginners and cozy enough to become a family tradition.
Recipe Info
| Category | Prep Time | Cook Time | Servings | Calories |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dessert | 30 mins | 1 hr | 8 slices | ~320 per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 6–8 tablespoons ice water
For the filling:
- 6 medium fresh apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
For finishing:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Make the crust: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in cold butter with a pastry cutter (or use your fingertips) until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Slowly add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough just holds together. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with sugars, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla until evenly coated. Let rest for 10 minutes to release juices.
- Roll out the crust: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough into a 12-inch circle. Fit into a 9-inch pie dish, letting excess hang over edges.
- Assemble the pie: Fill the crust with apple mixture and dot with butter. Roll out the second disc of dough and place on top, cutting small slits for steam. Trim and crimp edges.
- Bake: Brush top crust with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, then reduce oven to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking 35–40 minutes, until crust is golden and filling is bubbling.
- Cool & enjoy: Let the pie cool at least 2 hours before slicing so the filling sets.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Apple choice: A mix of tart and sweet apples gives the best flavor balance.
- Prevent soggy crust: Place the pie on a preheated baking sheet to help the bottom bake evenly.
- Storage: Keep leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Recipe Variations
- Mini apple pies: Use the same dough and filling in muffin tins for personal-sized treats.
- Lattice top: Instead of a full top crust, cut strips of dough and weave for a classic bakery look.
- Lighter version: Swap half the sugar for honey or maple syrup, and use whole-wheat flour for a rustic twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
- Pair with a cozy cup of hot tea or apple cider.
- Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra sweetness.
Conclusion
Homemade apple pie is more than dessert—it’s a memory in the making. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this cozy classic is always a good idea. Enjoy every bite warm from the oven, and don’t forget to share a slice with someone you love.