Classic Homemade Apple Pie
Introduction:
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a freshly baked apple pie wafting through your kitchen — warm, buttery, and spiced with cinnamon. This homemade apple pie recipe is a timeless favorite, perfect for cozy family dinners, fall gatherings, or Thanksgiving dessert tables.
🕒 Prep Time: 25 minutes
🔥 Cook Time: 55 minutes
⏱️ Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
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-cold water
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 large apples (Granny Smith + Honeycrisp mix for best flavor)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon butter (for dotting the top)
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter (or your fingertips) to mix until crumbly. Slowly drizzle in ice-cold water, 1 tablespoon at a time, just until the dough holds together. Divide it into two discs, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
While the dough chills, peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. In a large mixing bowl, toss them with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, lemon juice, and vanilla. Let the mixture sit for 10–15 minutes — this helps the apples release their natural juices for a perfectly gooey filling.
Step 3: Roll Out the Crust
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Gently transfer it to the dish, pressing it evenly into the bottom and sides. Trim any overhang to about ½ inch.
Step 4: Fill the Pie
Spoon the apple mixture into the crust, mounding slightly in the center. Dot the top with small pieces of butter for extra richness.
Step 5: Add the Top Crust
Roll out the second disc of dough and lay it over the filling. Trim and tuck the edges under the bottom crust, then crimp them with your fingers or a fork to seal. For a lattice top, cut the dough into 1-inch strips and weave them over the filling in a crisscross pattern.
Step 6: Brush and Vent
Brush the top crust (or lattice) with the beaten egg mixed with milk. Use a sharp knife to cut small slits if using a full top crust — this allows steam to escape during baking.
Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the pie on the middle rack and bake for 20 minutes. Reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for 35–40 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Step 8: Cool Before Serving
Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This resting period allows the filling to set beautifully, ensuring clean, picture-perfect slices.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Apple Pie:
- Use a Mix of Apples: Combining tart and sweet apples (like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp) adds depth and balance to the flavor.
- Keep Ingredients Cold: Cold butter and ice water are key to a flaky, tender crust.
- Prevent a Soggy Bottom: Brush the bottom crust lightly with egg white before filling — it creates a moisture barrier.
- Serve It Right: Warm your slice slightly and top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an irresistible finish.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving):
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 slice | 420 | 4g | 58g | 20g | 3g | 28g |
Disclaimer:
Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.