Is there anything more comforting than the aroma of a freshly baked apple pie wafting through the kitchen? This apple pie recipe brings all the warm, nostalgic feelings of home with every slice. Whether you’re making it for a holiday gathering or just craving something sweet and timeless, this pie never disappoints. With its flaky, golden crust and perfectly spiced apple filling, it’s no wonder the apple pie has become an iconic American dessert—and it’s trending again thanks to a renewed love for homemade classics.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Pie Recipe
- Beginner-friendly – Simple instructions and pantry staples make it easy for anyone to bake.
- Classic flavor – Sweet, tart apples spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Customizable – Easy to adapt for gluten-free or dairy-free diets.
- Crowd-pleaser – Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or cozy weekends at home.
- Make-ahead friendly – Tastes even better the next day!
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Apple Pie Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect homemade apple pie:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed (or vegan butter)
- 1 tsp salt
- 6–8 tbsp ice water
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled and sliced
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (to thicken the filling)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash – optional)
- Coarse sugar (for topping – optional)
Ingredient Alternatives:
- Use a store-bought pie crust for convenience.
- Substitute coconut sugar for a refined sugar-free version.
- For a dairy-free pie, swap the butter with coconut oil or vegan butter.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Apple Pie Recipe
- Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add ice water 1 tablespoon at a time until the dough comes together. Divide in two, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour.
- Make the filling: In a separate bowl, combine sliced apples, sugars, spices, lemon juice, and flour. Mix well and set aside.
- Roll the dough: Roll out one dough disc on a floured surface and place it into a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the apple mixture.
- Top and seal: Roll out the second dough disc and place over the apples. Trim excess dough, crimp the edges, and cut slits in the top to vent.
- Bake: Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with coarse sugar, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 50–60 minutes until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
- Cool before serving: Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set properly.
Expert Tip: Place the pie dish on a baking sheet to catch any drips and prevent a messy oven.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Add texture: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
- Boost flavor: Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of ground cloves.
- Make it vegan: Use plant-based butter and skip the egg wash.
- Mini pies: Use muffin tins to make individual-sized pies for parties.
How to Store & Reheat
- To store: Keep covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- To reheat: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 30–40 seconds or reheat the whole pie in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes.
Similar Recipes You Will Love
If you enjoyed this apple pie recipe, you’re going to love these other delightful and easy pie ideas! Each one brings a unique twist to the dessert table, whether you’re craving something fruity, citrusy, or incredibly simple.
- 🍇 Gooseberry Pie Recipe – A tangy and sweet classic packed with juicy gooseberries and a buttery crust.
- 🍋 No-Bake Lemon Pie – A refreshing, zesty dessert that comes together without even turning on the oven.
- 🍼 Baby Lemon Impossible Pie – Soft, creamy, and magically forms its own crust while baking!
These pie recipes are perfect for anyone looking to expand their dessert collection with simple yet impressive options.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the best apples to use for apple pie?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices—they hold their shape and balance sweetness and tartness.
Can I make apple pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake it a day in advance. It actually tastes better after resting overnight.
How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?
Blind-baking the bottom crust or sprinkling a thin layer of breadcrumbs or flour before adding the filling helps prevent sogginess.
Can I freeze apple pie?
Absolutely. Freeze before or after baking. Wrap tightly in foil and plastic wrap. Reheat from frozen or thaw overnight in the fridge.
Is it okay to use store-bought crust?
Yes! While homemade is best, a quality store-bought crust can save time and still taste delicious.
This apple pie recipe is a must-have in your baking repertoire—it’s easy, delicious, and guaranteed to impress. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just because, this pie brings comfort and joy in every bite. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your results or tag us with your beautiful homemade pie!
Apple Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
- 1 tsp salt
- 6 –8 tbsp ice water
- 6 medium apples Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, peeled and sliced
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour for filling
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash, optional)
- 1 tbsp coarse sugar optional topping
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
- Add ice water gradually until dough forms. Divide in half, wrap, and chill for 1 hour.
- In another bowl, mix apples, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and flour.
- Roll out one dough half and fit into a 9-inch pie dish. Add apple filling.
- Roll out second dough, place on top. Seal and crimp edges. Cut slits in the top.
- Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar (if using).
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 50–60 minutes, until golden and bubbling.
- Cool for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving.