Crisp autumn air wafts through the window as the sweet scent of cinnamon and baked apples fills your kitchen, hinting at an impending feast. This is not just any dessert; it’s the legendary apple pie recipe that has sparked countless family gatherings and many heartfelt conversations over slices shared.
Every time I make this delightful dessert, it takes me back to cozy afternoons spent in my grandma’s kitchen. She would always say that life could be challenging but that every problem could be solved with a slice of warm apple pie. And honestly? She was right.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The easy apple pie recipe is simple enough for beginners but yields professional results
- Its flavor profile balances sweetness with a hint of spice, leaving everyone craving more
- Visually appealing with its golden crust and glossy filling, this pie steals the show at any gathering
- Versatile enough for holidays or weeknight dinners, it pairs perfectly with ice cream or whipped cream
I remember one Christmas when I surprised my family with this classic dish; their reactions were priceless! The smiles on their faces as they took their first bites made all the effort worthwhile.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- All-Purpose Flour: Use high-quality flour for a sturdy yet flaky crust that holds its shape beautifully.
- Unsalted Butter: Cold butter gives the crust a tender texture; always stick with unsalted for better control over seasoning.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the filling; feel free to adjust based on your personal taste.
- Baking Powder: This helps give your crust a light lift so it’s flakier than your favorite pillow.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances flavors; trust me—don’t skip this step!
- Ice Water: Chilled water helps keep the dough from getting too warm during mixing; you want cold here!
- Apples (Granny Smith recommended): These tart apples provide balance against sweetness and keep their shape when baked.
- Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These spices add warmth and depth to the filling; fresh grated nutmeg is worth the extra effort if you can find it!
- Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice prevents browning in apples and adds brightness to the overall flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract brings everything together with its aromatic essence.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prepare Your Crust: In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut cold butter into cubes and mix until crumbly like sand between your fingers.
Add Ice Water: Gradually add ice water one tablespoon at a time while mixing until dough starts forming into a ball. Be careful not to overwork it—this isn’t a workout session!
Chill Dough: Wrap your dough ball in plastic wrap and chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that flaky texture we all love.
Slicing Apples: While your dough chills, peel and slice those Granny Smith apples thinly. Toss them in lemon juice to prevent browning and mix in cinnamon and nutmeg.
Roll Out Dough: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out half of the chilled dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Place it gently into your pie pan.
Add Filling: Pour your spiced apple mixture into the lined pie crust, making sure it’s piled high so there’s no room left for disappointment!
Top It Off: Roll out the second half of your dough and place it over your filling. Cut slits into the top crust to allow steam to escape—just think of it as giving your pie a little breathing room!
Bake Away: Brush top crust with an egg wash (optional) for that golden shine. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until bubbling and beautifully browned—your kitchen will smell divine!
And there you have it! An irresistible homemade apple pie recipe that’s bound to become a family favorite!
You Must Know
- This delightful apple pie recipe brings warmth and nostalgia to any gathering
- The aroma of cinnamon and baked apples will make your kitchen feel like a cozy haven
- Don’t forget, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top can elevate it to heavenly status!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing your pie crust while the apples soak in sugar and spices. This ensures every layer shines with flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different apples or add nuts for crunch. A dash of nutmeg can add an unexpected twist!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover apple pie covered at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat slices in the oven for that fresh-baked taste.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- A perfectly flaky crust requires cold butter; don’t skip chilling it first!
- Always slice apples evenly for consistent cooking
- Let the pie cool completely before slicing to avoid soggy segments
Memories of baking this apple pie with my grandma always bring a smile; her secret was singing while peeling apples, which made everything taste better!
FAQ
What type of apples are best for an apple pie recipe?
Use a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for balance.
Can I make the apple filling ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the filling 1-2 days in advance and store it in the fridge.
How do I prevent a soggy crust?
Pre-bake the crust slightly before adding the filling to maintain its flakiness.
Irresistible Homemade Apple Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Description
Delight in this classic apple pie, featuring a flaky crust and spiced apple filling. Perfect for gatherings, this comfort food warms the heart and satisfies every sweet tooth.
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 6–8 tbsp ice water
- 6 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
- Gradually add ice water until dough forms; chill for 30 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out half the dough; line a pie pan.
- Toss apples with lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla; pour into crust.
- Roll out remaining dough; cover the filling and cut slits for steam to escape.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Notes
- For added flavor, experiment with different apple varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji.
- Consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch.
- To avoid a soggy crust, pre-bake the bottom crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (125g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg