Apple Pie Recipe

Apple Pie Recipe: Classic American Dessert

by

Introduction

Apple Pie is a timeless American dessert, celebrated for its flaky, buttery crust and warm, cinnamon-spiced apple filling that evokes nostalgia and comfort. This apple pie recipe delivers a perfect balance of tart and sweet, making it a centerpiece for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or cozy fall evenings. Its rustic charm and versatility make it a beloved treat for bakers of all levels. With a homemade crust and fragrant filling, this pie brings heartfelt warmth to any occasion.

Ingredients

Crust:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 2 sticks (1 cup) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • 6-8 tbsp ice water

Filling:

  • 6 medium apples (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp mix), peeled and sliced
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter, diced

Topping:

  • 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1 tbsp coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling)

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Make Crust: In a large bowl, whisk flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in cold butter with a pastry cutter until pea-sized crumbs form. Add ice water, 1 tbsp at a time, mixing until dough holds together. Divide into two discs, wrap, and chill for 1 hour.
  2. Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, toss apples with sugar, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside.
  3. Roll Dough: On a floured surface, roll one dough disc into a 12-inch circle. Transfer to a 9-inch pie dish, trimming excess. Roll the second disc for the top crust or lattice.
  4. Assemble Pie: Pour apple filling into the crust, mounding slightly. Dot with diced butter. Cover with top crust, crimp edges, and cut slits for steam. For the lattice, weave strips over the filling.
  5. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush crust with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar. Bake for 50-60 minutes, until crust is golden and filling is bubbly. Cover edges with foil if browning too quickly.
  6. Cool and Serve: Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours to set. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with vanilla ice cream.

Tips for a Better Apple Pie

  • Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for depth
  • Keep butter and water ice-cold for a flaky crust
  • Chill the dough to prevent shrinking
  • Slice apples thinly for even cooking
  • Vent the top crust to release steam
  • Use a pie shield to protect the edges
  • Let the pie cool fully to avoid runny filling
  • Brush egg wash lightly for a golden shine
Variations and Customization
  • Caramel Apple Pie: Drizzle ¼ cup caramel sauce over apples
  • Cranberry Apple Pie: Add ½ cup dried cranberries
  • Spiced Pie: Include ¼ tsp ground ginger or cloves
  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for the crust
  • Vegan Pie: Use plant-based butter and skip the egg wash
  • Nutty Pie: Add ¼ cup chopped walnuts to filling
  • Dutch Apple Pie: Top with streusel instead of crust
  • Maple Pie: Replace sugar with ½ cup maple syrup
Storage and Serving Tips
  • Store covered at room temperature for 2 days or in the fridge for 4 days
  • Freeze baked pie for 3 months; thaw overnight before reheating
  • Serve with whipped cream, cheddar cheese, or custard
  • Reheat slices in a 325°F oven for 10-15 minutes
  • Use leftovers in milkshakes or parfaits
  • Keep chilled for potlucks to maintain the crust
  • Garnish with cinnamon or powdered sugar
  • Pair with coffee or hot cider
Nutritional Information

The following nutritional information is approximate, based on 8 servings (1 slice per serving):

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 56g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 30g
  • Protein: 5g
  • Vitamins and Minerals:
  • Vitamin C: 12% of Daily Value
  • Calcium: 4% of Daily Value
  • Iron: 8% of Daily Value

Note: Nutritional values vary based on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and optional toppings like coarse sugar. Use a nutritional calculator for precise measurements. Apple pie is high in carbs and fat due to the crust and sugar; vegan or gluten-free variations suit dietary needs. Apples provide fiber and antioxidants, adding nutritional value to this indulgent dessert.

Conclusion

This apple pie recipe delivers a classic, heartwarming dessert that’s perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or any cozy evening. Its flaky crust and spiced apple filling create a timeless treat that’s both comforting and versatile. Easy to adapt and universally loved, it’s a baking staple for creating lasting memories. This recipe ensures a delicious, crowd-pleasing pie that captures the essence of home.

Apple Pie Recipe

Apple Pie Recipe: Classic American Dessert

A classic apple pie with a buttery crust and spiced filling, ideal for festive desserts.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Chilling & Cooling 1 minute
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 cup unsalted butter cold
  • 6-8 tbsp ice water
  • 6 medium apples peeled and sliced
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp flour
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • ¼ tsp nutmeg
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 egg beaten
  • 1 tbsp coarse sugar optional

Instructions
 

  • Mix flour, salt, sugar; cut in butter; add ice water to form dough; chill
  • Toss apples with sugar, flour, lemon, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt
  • Roll dough; line pie dish; add filling and butter
  • Top with crust or lattice; crimp edges
  • Brush with egg; bake at 375°F for 50-60 minutes
  • Cool 2 hours; serve

Notes

  • Use mixed apples
  • Chill the dough for flakiness
  • Store in fridge for 4 days or freeze for 3 months
  • Serve with ice cream

Leave a Comment