There’s something undeniably magical about a warm slice of apple pie fresh from the oven. The sweet aroma of cinnamon and baked apples wafts through the air, inviting everyone to gather around. The flaky, buttery crust crumbles ever so slightly with each bite, revealing a luscious filling that sings of home and comfort.
I still remember my grandmother’s kitchen, where she would whip up her famous apple pie every Thanksgiving. It was a family tradition that brought us all together, each slice filled with laughter and stories. The anticipation as we waited for it to cool was palpable—who could resist that golden crust?
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy apple pie recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels, making preparation a breeze
- With its irresistible combination of tart apples and warm spices, the flavor profile is simply delightful
- The golden-brown crust is not only delicious but visually stunning as well
- Ideal for holidays or cozy family gatherings, this pie truly shines on any occasion
I remember one Thanksgiving where my cousin took one bite and declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” which incidentally led to a debate about whether bread could even be compared to pie.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Granny Smith Apples: These tart apples hold their shape beautifully when baked and add just the right amount of zing.
Brown Sugar: Opt for light brown sugar to add depth and richness to your filling without overpowering the apples.
Cinnamon: A classic spice that enhances the apple flavor; use freshly ground for the best aroma.
Nutmeg: Just a pinch adds warmth and complexity; be careful not to overdo it!
All-Purpose Flour: Essential for creating that perfect flaky crust; sift it for better consistency.
Unsalted Butter: Use cold butter for your crust; it creates that wonderful flakiness we all love.
Pie Crusts: You can use store-bought or homemade; just ensure it’s chilled before use.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
**Prepare Your Apples**: Start by peeling, coring, and slicing about six Granny Smith apples into thin wedges. Toss them in a bowl with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until evenly coated.
**Make the Pie Crust**: If using homemade dough, combine flour and cold butter in a bowl until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until a dough forms; wrap in plastic wrap and chill for 30 minutes.
**Preheat Your Oven**: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) while you roll out your dough. Dust your surface with flour and roll out half of the dough into a circle large enough to fit your pie dish.
**Assemble the Pie**: Place the rolled-out dough into your pie dish, pressing gently into the sides. Fill with the prepared apple mixture and dot with small pieces of cold butter for added richness.
**Cover It Up**: Roll out the second half of your dough and lay it over the filling. Cut slits in the top crust for steam vents or create a lattice design if you’re feeling fancy! Trim excess edges and seal them by crimping with your fingers.
**Bake Away**: Place your assembled pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C). Then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
The scent of baking apple pie will fill your kitchen as you eagerly await those first slices—trust me; it’s worth every minute!
And there you have it! A delightful journey from prep to plate that ends with happy faces around the table. Enjoy every crumb!
You Must Know
- This delicious apple pie recipe combines sweet and tart flavors, creating a classic dessert that everyone loves
- The flaky crust and warm spiced filling make it the perfect comfort food, ideal for gatherings or cozy nights in
- Don’t forget the ice cream!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preparing your crust first, then slice the apples while it chills. Bake the pie until golden brown, ensuring the filling bubbles.
Add Your Touch
Consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or swapping some sugar for brown sugar for a richer flavor. Experiment with different apple varieties to find your favorite combination.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover apple pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to restore crispness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for balanced flavor
- Always let your pie cool before slicing to prevent mushy filling
- For an extra crispy crust, pre-bake it slightly before adding the filling
Memories of my grandma’s kitchen flood back when I think about making this pie. The aroma brought everyone together, eagerly waiting for that first slice!
FAQ
What type of apples are best for apple pie?
A mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples works well for texture and flavor balance.
Can I use store-bought crust?
Yes, using store-bought crust can save time without sacrificing flavor in your apple pie.
How long should I bake my apple pie?
Bake your apple pie at 425°F for 15 minutes, then lower to 350°F for 30-40 minutes.
Classic Apple Pie
Indulge in the comforting flavors of homemade apple pie with this easy, delightful recipe. Featuring tender Granny Smith apples enveloped in a flaky, buttery crust and seasoned with warm spices, this dessert is perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in. Each slice evokes cherished memories of holiday traditions, making it a must-try classic that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 6 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted cold butter, cubed
- 6 tbsp ice water
- 1 store-bought or homemade pie crust
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
- For the pie crust, mix flour and cold butter until crumbly. Gradually add ice water until dough forms. Chill for 30 minutes.
- Roll out half of the dough into a circle to fit your pie dish. Place it in the dish and fill with apple mixture.
- Dot filling with small pieces of butter. Roll out the second half of the dough and place it over the filling. Seal edges and cut slits for steam vents.
- Bake on a baking sheet for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C), then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
