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There’s an undeniable magic in the air when the aroma of freshly baked apple pie fills the kitchen. I can still picture my grandmother rolling out the dough, her laughter mingling with the sweet scent of cinnamon and sugared apples. That warm, inviting smell always promised a cozy gathering, where the only thing more comforting than the pie was the shared joy around the table.

This Classic Apple Pie recipe is my homage to those cherished moments—a simple yet delightful dessert crafted for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs alike. With a buttery, flaky crust and a perfectly spiced apple filling, it strikes the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. Whether you’re celebrating a seasonal gathering or seeking solace after a long day, this pie promises to be a crowd-pleaser on any occasion. Ready to whisk away stress and create delicious memories? Let’s get baking!

Why is Apple Pie a timeless favorite?

Nostalgia: Biting into a slice conjures up memories of family gatherings and warm kitchens filled with love.
Flaky Perfection: The buttery crust is everything you dream of—crispy outside, tender inside, creating a delightful showcase for the juicy filling.
Endless Variety: Feel free to experiment with different apple types or spices. Each variation brings a new twist to a classic dish.
Instant Crowd-Pleaser: It’s always a hit, whether topped with ice cream or served plain, making it great for gatherings.
Simple Steps: This recipe requires only a few ingredients and simple techniques, perfect for both novice bakers and experienced chefs. So, why not dive into this delicious adventure and bring the joy of homemade pie to your table? You might also enjoy exploring more comforting recipes here.

Apple Pie Ingredients

• Classic Apple Pie made easy!

For the Crust

Perfect Pie Crust Recipe – A homemade crust provides the best flavor and texture for your pie.
¼ cup butter – Essential for richness; use unsalted butter for better control over seasoning.
1 egg and 1 teaspoon water – Combined to create an egg wash that gives a lovely golden color to your crust.

For the Filling

8 cups thinly sliced apples (peeled and cored) – Use a mixture of Granny Smith and Gala apples for a perfect balance of tart and sweet.
2/3 cup lightly packed brown sugar – This sweetener offers a rich, caramel flavor; feel free to substitute with white sugar if needed.
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour – Helps thicken the filling to prevent a soggy Apple Pie.
2 teaspoons cinnamon – Adds a warm, inviting spice; adjust based on your personal taste.
1 teaspoon lemon juice – Brightens flavors in your filling and complements the apples beautifully.
¼ teaspoon salt – A pinch balances sweetness for a well-rounded flavor profile.

Optional Topping

Coarse sugar – Sprinkle on top for an extra crunch and a hint of sweetness if desired.

How to Make Apple Pie

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a 9-inch pie plate. This initial step ensures your pie bakes evenly for that perfect golden crust.
Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, lemon juice, and salt. Cook until the apples soften, about 8-10 minutes, then let the filling cool.
Roll out the pie crust by shaping the first disc to fit the pie plate. Carefully transfer the crust into the plate, allowing it to settle snugly.
Pour the cooled apple filling into the crust, then cover it with the second disc. Seal the edges by crimping them together to create a beautiful border.
Brush the top crust with the egg wash mixture and sprinkle with coarse sugar for an extra sweet touch and delightful crunch.
Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for about 40 more minutes until the apple filling is bubbly and the crust is a golden brown.
Cool the pie for at least an hour before serving to allow the filling to set properly and to enhance the flavors.

Optional: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a blissful combination.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Apple Pie Variations & Substitutions

Customize this recipe to make it your own, experimenting with flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds!

Apple Alternative: Swap half the apples for pears for a lovely, subtly sweet twist. This change adds a unique tenderness to the filling.
Nutty Crunch: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple filling for extra crunch and depth. The nuts create a delightful contrast to the softness of the apples.
Spice it Up: Experiment with spices such as nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom for a fun flavor shift. Just a pinch can breathe new life into the classic cinnamon profile.
Sweetness Levels: Adjust the amount of brown sugar to taste if you prefer a less sweet pie. You can also use honey or maple syrup for a touch of natural sweetness.
Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine for a dairy-free version. This will still give you moisture while making the recipe suitable for various diets.
Frozen Fruit: Use frozen apples or mixed berries if fresh aren’t available. Just remember to reduce the sugar since frozen fruit can be sweeter.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust mix or almond flour blend for a gluten-sensitive alternative. The texture will be different, but just as delicious!
Zesty Surprise: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the filling for a refreshing burst of citrus. This extra zing enhances the overall flavors beautifully.

How to Store and Freeze Apple Pie

Room Temperature: Store leftover pie covered at room temperature for up to 1 day. It’s best enjoyed within this timeframe!

Fridge: For storing leftover apple pie, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days to retain its flavor and freshness.

Freezer: To freeze, slice the pie, wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, and place them in an airtight container. It will last for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To reheat, bake slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the filling to warm through while keeping the crust crispy. Enjoy your delicious apple pie!

Make Ahead Options

These Classic Apple Pie preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the apple filling up to 3 days in advance by cooking the apples with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice, then refrigerating it in an airtight container to maintain flavor and freshness. For even more efficiency, make the pie crust ahead of time, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerating for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply assemble your pie by pouring the chilled filling into the pre-rolled crust, crimping the edges, and topping with the egg wash before baking. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll have a delicious Apple Pie ready to serve with minimal last-minute effort!

What to Serve with Classic Apple Pie?

Nothing completes the joyful experience of homemade pie like wonderful pairings that elevate the moment.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness melts gently over warm pie, creating a delightful contrast to the flaky crust.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, homemade whipped cream adds a sophisticated touch, blending beautifully with spiced apple filling.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over a slice brings an indulgent richness that takes the classic flavor profile to new heights.
Cheddar Cheese: A classic sweet-and-savory combination, sharp cheddar complements the natural sweetness of apples with a wonderful depth.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting: Sprinkling a bit of cinnamon sugar on top enhances the aromatic spices, creating an irresistible sweet crunch.
Earl Grey Tea: A cup of this fragrant tea cuts through the sweetness and adds a unique flavor twist, perfect for a cozy afternoon.

Imagine a gathering where your pie is the centerpiece, accompanied by these delightful pairings, creating unforgettable moments that linger long after the last slice is gone.

Expert Tips for Making Apple Pie

Chill Your Dough: Refrigerate your crust after preparing it. This helps prevent shrinkage during baking, ensuring a beautiful, flaky Apple Pie.
Apple Selection Matters: Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Gala, to achieve a balanced flavor in your filling.
Avoid Sogginess: Pre-cook the apple filling to reduce moisture, ensuring a crisp crust and perfectly tender filling.
Watch the Bake: Keep an eye on your pie during the last minutes of baking. A bubbling filling through the vents indicates it’s ready—don’t over-bake!
Customize Your Spice: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon or add nutmeg for a personal twist on this classic Apple Pie.

Classic Apple Pie Recipe FAQs

What type of apples are best for apple pie?
Absolutely! I recommend using a mix of Granny Smith and Gala apples for your pie. The Granny Smiths provide a tartness that balances the sweetness of Gala apples, making for a perfectly flavored filling. Feel free to experiment with other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji if you prefer a sweeter taste!

How should I store leftover apple pie?
To keep your apple pie fresh, cover it with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate it. It’s best consumed within 3 days for optimal flavor and texture. If you notice the crust becoming a bit soggy, you can re-crisp it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes before serving.

Can I freeze apple pie?
Yes, you can! To freeze your apple pie, allow it to cool completely, then slice it into individual pieces. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container before freezing for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, and they’ll taste just like fresh!

What should I do if my pie crust is too tough?
Very common! If your pie crust turns out tough, it could be due to overworking the dough. Make sure to handle it gently, and use cold ingredients to keep the texture flaky. If you find yourself with tough dough, consider adding a bit of cold water, one tablespoon at a time, rolling just until combined to restore some moisture without compromising the flakiness.

Is this apple pie recipe suitable for those with allergies?
When it comes to dietary considerations, this apple pie contains gluten from the flour and dairy from the butter. For a gluten-free version, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. For dairy-free, you can use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. Always check your ingredients to ensure they align with your dietary needs.