Classic Apple Pie Recipe: A Delicious Homemade Dessert for Every Occasion
- Renan
- Jan 24
- 5 min read
Classic Apple Pie Recipe: A Delicious Homemade Dessert for Every Occasion
Apple pie is an iconic dessert in the United States, known for its warm, comforting flavors and flaky, buttery crust. Whether you're making it for a family gathering, a holiday dinner, or just because you crave something sweet, this classic apple pie recipe will surely become a favorite in your home. Follow this guide to create the perfect apple pie from scratch, with tips to make your filling and crust stand out.
Apple Pie has a long-standing tradition in American culture. It’s often said, “as American as apple pie,” and for good reason. This dessert has been passed down through generations, and the combination of sweet, tart apples wrapped in a golden crust is a perfect balance of flavors that everyone loves. In this recipe, you’ll learn not only how to prepare the perfect apple pie but also how to elevate it with a few professional tips.
How to Make the Perfect Apple Pie
Ingredients for the Apple Pie Filling:
6 cups of sliced apples (Granny Smith apples work best)
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup packed brown sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 tablespoon butter (diced into small pieces)
Ingredients for the Pie Crust:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter (cold, cut into cubes)
6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
For the Finish:
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Apple Pie
1. Prepare the Pie Crust
Start by making the crust, as it needs to chill before rolling out. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes, and using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough starts to come together. Divide the dough in half, form each half into a disk, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Chill for at least 1 hour.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling
While your dough chills, prepare the apple filling. Peel, core, and slice your apples. In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with lemon juice. In a separate bowl, mix the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Sprinkle the mixture over the apples and toss to coat evenly. Let the filling sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Roll Out the Dough
Once your dough has chilled, roll out one disk on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Place the rolled dough into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing gently into the corners.
4. Fill the Pie
Pour the apple filling into the prepared crust, ensuring it’s evenly distributed. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter to add richness and depth of flavor.
5. Top the Pie
Roll out the second dough disk to the same size and place it over the apples. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal the pie. Cut a few slits into the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush the top of the pie with a beaten egg for a golden finish, and sprinkle with coarse sugar for a little extra crunch.
6. Bake the Apple Pie
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling through the slits. If the crust begins to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil. Once done, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 2 hours before serving. This allows the filling to set and ensures the pie slices beautifully.
Tips for the Best Apple Pie Filling and Crust
Making an apple pie is an art, but with these tips, you’ll elevate your recipe to the next level:
Use a Variety of Apples
Granny Smith apples are perfect for apple pie because they hold their shape during baking and provide a tart contrast to the sweet filling. However, combining them with sweeter apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji can add a nice balance of flavors.
Make Your Crust Flaky and Buttery
The key to a flaky crust is cold butter. Don't rush this step! Chill your butter and dough as much as possible to prevent the fat from melting before it’s baked, which is essential for that perfect, flaky texture. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even add a little bit of vodka to the dough (about 2 tablespoons), which helps prevent overworking the dough and makes it extra flaky.
Don’t Skimp on Seasonings
Cinnamon and nutmeg are essential spices for an apple pie, but don't hesitate to add a dash of ground ginger or a pinch of cloves for extra warmth. A small amount of lemon zest can also brighten up the filling.
Let the Pie Cool Before Serving
As tempting as it is to dig into your apple pie right away, be patient! Letting it cool for a couple of hours helps the filling firm up and makes for cleaner slices. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate treat.
Apple Pie Variations You Can Try
Although the classic apple pie is hard to beat, there are several variations you can experiment with to put your unique spin on this dessert:
Dutch Apple Pie: Topped with a buttery, cinnamon streusel instead of a traditional crust.
Caramel Apple Pie: Add a layer of homemade caramel sauce to the filling for an indulgent twist.
Apple Cranberry Pie: Incorporate fresh cranberries for a tart contrast to the apples.
Why This Apple Pie Recipe is the Best
This apple pie recipe stands out because it combines the right balance of sweetness, tartness, and spiciness. The buttery, flaky crust and the perfectly spiced apple filling make it irresistible. Whether you’re baking for Thanksgiving or just a cozy weekend at home, this apple pie will always impress your guests.
Plus, by using Granny Smith apples, you ensure a perfect texture and balance of flavors. Follow the steps and tips closely, and you’ll have a pie worthy of any special occasion.
There’s no better dessert than a warm slice of homemade apple pie, and this recipe delivers exactly what you need: a tender, flaky crust with a spiced apple filling that’s both sweet and tangy. Whether you're baking for a special event or just craving a comforting dessert, this classic apple pie is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. So, what are you waiting for? Get baking and enjoy!
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