There’s something truly captivating about the scent of apple pie wafting through the kitchen, a warm embrace of cinnamon and baked apples that transports me back to my grandmother’s house. It was there, amidst flour-dusted counters and laughter, that I learned the magic of turning simple ingredients into comfort food. This apple pie recipe has become a staple in my home—not just for its divine taste but for its ability to bring people together.
Perhaps it’s a chilly autumn day, and a slice of this pie would perfectly complement a cup of hot cider, or maybe you’re hosting a gathering and need a dessert that will delight guests without keeping you tied to the oven all day. This pie is remarkably easy to make, yet it delivers an impressive flavor that feels like a warm hug. So, roll up your sleeves, and lets create a classic that will have everyone craving seconds!
Why is this Apple Pie so special?
Homemade Goodness: This apple pie is crafted from scratch, meaning every bite is bursting with love and flavor.
Irresistible Aroma: The scent of cinnamon and baked apples fills your kitchen, instantly elevating your mood.
Family Tradition: Perfect for gatherings, it brings everyone together over delicious slices of nostalgia.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy it warm with ice cream or at room temperature—it’s delightful any way you serve it!
Time-Saving: Quick to assemble, providing satisfaction without hours in the kitchen.
For more homemade treats that please the crowd, check out my other comfort food recipes!
Apple Pie Ingredients
There’s no better way to start your apple pie journey than with the perfect ingredients!
For the Pie Crust
• Homemade double pie crust – two sheets of pie dough provide a flaky foundation for your lattice-topped masterpiece.
For the Apple Filling
• Lemon zest – a 1/4 teaspoon brightens the flavors and enhances the sweetness of the apples.
• Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons from half a lemon will prevent the apples from browning and add a delightful zing.
• Apples – 5 pounds, ensure you use a mix of sweet and tart varieties for a balanced filling.
• Brown sugar – 3/4 cup (packed) adds rich caramel notes that complement the fruit beautifully.
• Granulated sugar – 3/4 cup helps to sweeten the pie to perfection.
• All-purpose flour – 5 tablespoons thicken the filling as it cooks, ensuring a slice that holds together.
• Kosher salt – 1/4 teaspoon enhances the sweetness while balancing flavors.
• Cinnamon – 1 & 1/2 teaspoons for that classic apple pie warmth!
• Nutmeg – 3/4 teaspoon adds a lovely depth of flavor, while making your kitchen smell amazing.
• Cardamom – 1/2 teaspoon (optional) can elevate the aroma with a unique, fragrant twist.
• Vanilla – 1 teaspoon brings a comforting sweetness to the mix.
For Finishing Touches
• Milk – 1 tablespoon, for brushing on the pie to create a golden crust.
• Beaten egg – 1 tablespoon (optional) adds extra richness and a beautiful glaze when brushed on top.
• Raw sugar – 1 tablespoon for topping the pie, giving it a lovely crunch and sparkle.
With these ingredients, you’re on your way to creating a delectable apple pie that will surely melt hearts!
How to Make Apple Pie
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Prepare the crust by fitting one sheet into a pie dish, ensuring it’s pressed down evenly to prevent shrinkage. This creates a perfect canvas for your apple filling!
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Mix together in a large bowl the peeled and cored apples with lemon zest, lemon juice, brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and vanilla. Stir until evenly combined, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust, making sure to distribute it evenly for a balanced filling. The fragrant apples will begin to fill your kitchen with their lovely aroma.
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Cover the pie with the second sheet of pie dough, crimping the edges firmly to seal in all the delicious juices. This step is essential for a tidy presentation!
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Brush the top crust with milk or beaten egg for a golden finish, and sprinkle raw sugar on top for delightful sweetness and crunch.
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Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking. This helps to prevent any unsightly bursts and keeps those apple fillings intact.
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Bake in a preheated oven until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown, typically around 425°F for about 45 minutes. Your home will fill with delightful scents, inviting everyone to the table!
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Apple Pie Variations
Feel free to make this delicious apple pie your own with these simple yet delightful twists!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a pie that everyone can enjoy.
- Sugar-Free: Replace the granulated and brown sugars with your favorite sugar substitute, like stevia or erythritol, to cut calories.
- Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cayenne or black pepper to the filling for a surprising heat that beautifully contrasts sweet apples.
- Fruit Fusion: Incorporate other fruits like pears or cranberries for an exciting flavor twist that’ll make your pie even more delightful.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts into the filling for added texture and a rich, nutty flavor that enhances each bite.
- Creamy Addition: Stir in a dollop of cream cheese to the apple mixture before filling the crust, giving it an irresistible creamy texture.
- Lemon Zing: For an extra citrus punch, increase the lemon zest to a full teaspoon and add a bit of orange zest as well.
- Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the pie before serving for a decadent touch that adds sweetness and richness.
With these variations, your apple pie will become a unique creation every time!
What to Serve with Apple Pie?
Indulging in a slice of warm apple pie is a heavenly experience, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal to a new level of comfort and joy.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cool, ice cream adds a delightful contrast to the warm spices of your apple pie, creating a comforting balance.
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Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of rich caramel enhances the sweetness of the pie while adding a luscious texture that makes each bite unforgettable.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of homemade whipped cream brings a touch of elegance and sweetness to a classic dessert.
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Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar contrasts beautifully with the sugary filling, creating a surprisingly delightful flavor combination that will intrigue your taste buds.
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Hot Apple Cider: The aroma of spiced apple cider warms the heart, perfectly complementing every slice while reinforcing the apple flavors in your pie.
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Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of your dessert and ensuring a complete, satisfying meal.
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Spiced Nuts: A small bowl of spiced nuts brings texture and a hint of savory flavor, enhancing the experience of savoring your pie.
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Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai tea resonate with your apple pie, creating a soothing beverage pairing that warms you to your core.
With these delightful pairings, you can transform your experience of enjoying apple pie into a cherished moment that lingers long after the last bite!
Make Ahead Options
Planning ahead is a lifesaver for busy home cooks, and this apple pie is perfect for that! You can prepare the pie crust and the apple filling separately up to 24 hours in advance. To maintain freshness, cover the pie crust in plastic wrap, and keep the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the apple mixture into the prepared crust, cover with the second sheet of dough, and brush with milk or beaten egg. Bake until golden brown, and delight in the comforting aroma of fresh apple pie wafting through your home—just as delicious as if made the same day!
How to Store and Freeze Apple Pie
Room Temperature: Store your baked apple pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered loosely with foil to maintain its crust’s crunchiness.
Fridge: If you want to enjoy it a bit longer, refrigerate the pie, where it can last up to 5 days. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pie (well-wrapped in plastic and then aluminum foil) for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy your apple pie warm, preheat the oven to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Enjoy the comforting aroma filling your kitchen once more!
Expert Tips for Perfect Apple Pie
Choose the Right Apples: Aim for a mix of sweet and tart varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp to achieve a well-balanced flavor profile.
Don’t Overmix: When combining your filling ingredients, mix gently to keep the apples firm, preventing a mushy texture in your apple pie.
Seal Properly: Crimp the edges of the pie crust well to ensure a tight seal, preventing any juices from leaking out during baking.
Cut Slits Carefully: Make sure to cut slits in the top crust adequately; this allows steam to escape and prevents the crust from turning soggy.
Cool Before Slicing: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing—this helps the filling set and makes for cleaner slices.
Serve with a Twist: For added flair, consider serving your apple pie with caramel sauce or a sprinkle of sea salt on top!
Apple Pie Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use for the pie?
Absolutely! I recommend using a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination enhances the flavor profile of your apple pie, offering a delightful balance between sweetness and tartness.
How should I store my apple pie after baking?
If you’re keeping your apple pie at room temperature, cover it loosely with foil and enjoy it within 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 5 days. This helps maintain the freshness and prevents drying out.
Can I freeze my apple pie?
Very! To freeze your apple pie, wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It can stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What should I do if my pie crust becomes soggy?
To prevent a soggy crust, ensure your apples are well-drained before layering them in the pie. If you notice your pie is soggy, you can place it back in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to help crisp it up.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, this apple pie contains gluten (from the flour) and dairy (from the milk). For a gluten-free version, consider using almond flour or a store-bought gluten-free pie crust. Additionally, you can substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative if needed. Always check ingredient labels for any hidden allergens!
Irresistible Homemade Apple Pie That Will Melt Your Heart
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the crust by fitting one sheet into a pie dish, ensuring it's pressed down evenly.
- Mix together in a large bowl the peeled and cored apples with lemon zest, lemon juice, brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, and vanilla.
- Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust, distributing it evenly.
- Cover the pie with the second sheet of pie dough, crimping the edges firmly.
- Brush the top crust with milk or beaten egg, and sprinkle raw sugar on top.
- Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F for about 45 minutes until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.