Apple pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a tradition, a memory, and a celebration of warm, comforting flavors. Whether it’s the centerpiece of a holiday feast or a simple weekend indulgence, apple pie brings a sense of home to every table. This easy apple pie recipe has been a cherished family favorite for years, blending simplicity with an unmatched depth of flavor.
In this recipe, we’ll take you step-by-step through creating the perfect apple pie. From selecting the right apples to achieving a golden, flaky crust, every detail is covered to ensure your pie turns out just right. Even if you’re new to baking, this recipe is designed with you in mind, making it approachable and foolproof.
Get ready to fill your home with the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and baked apples. Whether you serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy it plain, this apple pie is guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe collection. So roll up your sleeves and let’s bake a pie that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With a few simple steps, you can have a homemade pie ready in no time.
- Classic Flavors: The combination of cinnamon-spiced apples and a buttery crust is timeless.
- Customizable: Add a pinch of nutmeg or brown sugar for a personal touch.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday or a cozy weekend, this pie fits any celebration.
Ingredients Overview
- Pre-made Pie Crusts: For convenience, but homemade crusts work beautifully too.
- Fresh Apples: Tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best texture and flavor.
- Cinnamon and Sugar: To create the perfect spiced sweetness.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps achieve a golden crust.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C) and gather all your ingredients, ensuring you have everything ready for the process. This step will help streamline the preparation.
Step 2: Line a 9-inch pie dish with one pie crust, pressing it evenly into the dish. Make sure the crust fits snugly, and set the second crust aside for the top layer.
Step 3: In a small bowl, mix 3/4 cup white sugar with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. If your apples are particularly tart, you can adjust the sugar amount for a more balanced flavor.
Step 4: Layer the thinly sliced apples in the pie dish, making sure to sprinkle each layer with the cinnamon-sugar mixture. Continue layering until all the apples are used up and the dish is filled.
Step 5: Dot the top layer of apples with small pieces of butter. This will add richness and enhance the overall flavor of the pie filling.
Step 6: Cover the apples with the second pie crust, trimming any excess dough. Crimp the edges to seal and make a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking.
Step 7: Bake on the lowest oven rack for 10 minutes at 450°F (230°C), then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C). Continue baking for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
Step 8: Let the pie cool before serving. This allows the filling to set properly, ensuring a perfect slice when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Tips for the Best Recipe
- Choose Tart Apples: Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp hold their shape and balance the sweetness.
- Don’t Skip the Butter: Small butter dots enhance richness and promote a golden finish.
- Cool Before Slicing: Allowing the pie to cool ensures cleaner slices and a set filling.
- Adjust Sugar: Tailor the sugar amount based on the tartness of your apples.
- Use an Egg Wash: Brush the top crust with a beaten egg for a glossy finish.
Variations to Try
- Add Nutmeg: A pinch of nutmeg in the filling adds a warm, spicy note.
- Use Brown Sugar: Swap white sugar for brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
- Create a Lattice Crust: For a decorative touch, weave strips of dough over the pie.
- Add Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice prevents apples from browning and brightens the filling.
- Top with Crumble: Replace the top crust with a buttery crumble for a different texture.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Q: Can I use store-bought pie crust? A: Absolutely! Store-bought crusts make this recipe quick and easy. Homemade crusts are a great option if you prefer a richer flavor.
- Q: What apples are best for pie? A: Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best. Avoid softer apples like Red Delicious as they tend to become mushy.
- Q: Can I freeze apple pie? A: Yes, you can freeze it! Assemble the pie but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
- Q: How do I know when it’s done? A: The crust should be golden brown, and the filling should bubble through the slits in the crust.
- Q: Can I add other spices? A: Yes! Try adding cloves, allspice, or cardamom for a unique twist.
How to Store and Reheat
- Storing: After cooling, cover the pie with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or reheat the whole pie in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.
Conclusion
This easy apple pie recipe is truly a must-have for your dessert repertoire, offering a perfect balance of flavors with its flaky, golden crust and warm, spiced apple filling. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, allowing you to create a homemade dessert that tastes just like grandma’s, with minimal effort. Plus, the customization options are endless—whether you prefer a sweeter filling, a touch of nutmeg, or a crumbly streusel topping, you can easily adjust it to suit your taste.
Not only is this pie a classic favorite, but it’s also the perfect treat for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual afternoons at home. The irresistible aroma as it bakes will fill your kitchen with warmth, making it even more enjoyable when you finally take that first bite. Whether served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or on its own, this apple pie is sure to become a family favorite.
Don’t wait—try this recipe today and experience the joy of homemade apple pie! We’d love to hear how your pie turns out, and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family. For more delicious and easy recipes, make sure to follow Ava Foodie on Pinterest for constant inspiration and new ideas to elevate your baking skills!
