If you’re craving a dessert that feels like a warm hug from the inside, look no further than this Classic Apple Pie: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe. It’s the perfect harmony of tender, flaky crust wrapped around a spicy, sweet apple filling bursting with cinnamon and nutmeg. This recipe doesn’t just fill your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas—it invites you to slow down, savor each bite, and create memories with every slice. Whether it’s a holiday staple or a cozy weekend treat, this pie brings that timeless feeling of homemade love straight to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Creating the perfect apple pie starts with a handful of simple, carefully chosen ingredients that come together beautifully. Each component plays a vital role in flavor, texture, and that irresistible golden color.
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender, flaky pie crust that holds together just right.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in both crust and filling.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Gives a subtle sweetness to the crust.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed): Creates that dreamy, flaky texture when cut into the flour.
- 6–8 tablespoons ice water: Bonds the dough while keeping it cool for perfect handling.
- 6–7 cups peeled, cored, and thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith & Honeycrisp): A perfect balance of tart and sweet that keeps the filling lively.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the apple filling without overpowering it.
- ¼ cup light brown sugar: Adds depth and a touch of caramel flavor to the fruit.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the filling so it’s juicy but not runny.
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon: The warming spice that makes apple pie so iconic.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: A subtle nutty note that rounds out the spice mix.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Keeps the apples bright and prevents browning.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a smooth, fragrant undertone to the filling.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (small pieces): Dotting the filling with butter enriches every bite.
- 1 egg (beaten): For brushing the crust to achieve that beautiful golden shine.
- 1 tablespoon milk: Mixed with the egg for a silky egg wash.
- Coarse sugar (optional): Adds a sparkling crunch when sprinkled on top.
How to Make Classic Apple Pie: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
Step 1: Make the Pie Dough
Begin by whisking together your flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Next, cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or by hand until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs—this ensures those flaky layers in your crust. Slowly add the ice water, just enough for the dough to come together without being sticky. Divide this dough into two discs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and let them chill in the fridge for at least an hour to relax and keep cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
While the dough chills, toss your peeled and thinly sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. This mixture is where the magic happens—each ingredient balances sweetness, spice, and acidity perfectly. Once combined, your filling will be bursting with flavor and ready to invade that flaky crust.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). On a floured surface, roll out one chilled dough disc into a circle that fits your 9-inch pie dish. Transfer it carefully, then pile on that luscious apple mixture, making sure to dot the filling evenly with small pieces of butter for extra richness. Roll out the second dough disc and place it over the top; trim and crimp the edges to seal, then cut decorative slits or weave a lattice crust if you’re feeling fancy. Brush the top generously with beaten egg mixed with milk to capture that warm golden hue.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and pop it into the oven. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes to jump-start that bubbly filling and crisp the crust. Then lower the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 35–40 minutes until the crust glows golden and the apples are tender and beautifully spiced. Patience is key—let your masterpiece cool for at least two hours before cutting to allow the filling to set perfectly.
How to Serve Classic Apple Pie: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
Garnishes
A simple scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream truly elevates this classic dessert. For a cozy touch, sprinkle a dash of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce on top. These small touches bring out the warmth and sweetness, making every forkful feel like a celebration.
Side Dishes
While the pie steals the spotlight, pairing it with spiced chai tea or a cup of rich coffee complements the flavors beautifully. For festive occasions, a sharp cheddar cheese slice on the side is a delightful tradition that balances the pie’s sweetness with a savory bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests? Serve slices on rustic wooden boards with edible flowers or fresh mint leaves to brighten the plate. You can even deconstruct the pie into mini parfaits—layer crumble, warm apple filling, and whipped cream in small glasses for a modern twist on the Classic Apple Pie: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your pie, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Properly stored, your pie will stay delicious for up to four days, allowing you to indulge a second time without the hassle of baking again.
Freezing
This pie also freezes beautifully if you want to prepare it in advance. Assemble the pie without baking, wrap it securely, and freeze for up to three months. When ready, bake from frozen, adding a little extra time to the baking cycle for the best results.
Reheating
To revive that fresh-baked flavor, warm slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crust soggy. Bringing the pie back to life with gentle heat preserves that flaky crust and luscious filling just like the first time.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are recommended for their balance of tartness and sweetness, you can experiment with Fuji, Gala, or Braeburn apples. Just mix varieties for a more complex flavor and textural contrast.
Is it necessary to chill the dough before baking?
Yes, chilling the dough is essential. It prevents the butter from melting too quickly, which ensures a flaky crust, and it also helps the dough relax, making it easier to roll out without shrinking in the oven.
Can I make the pie crust from scratch ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare the dough a day ahead and keep it chilled or even freeze it. This recipe is flexible and perfect for planning ahead, which means less stress on baking day.
What if I don’t have an egg for the egg wash?
No worries! You can brush the crust with milk alone, or mix milk with a little honey or maple syrup for a beautifully browned crust. The egg wash just gives extra shine and color.
How do I prevent the bottom crust from getting soggy?
Using a slightly thickened filling by adding flour and baking the pie at a high temperature initially helps set the crust right away, preventing sogginess. Also, baking on a sheet pan helps catch drips and promotes even heat distribution.
Final Thoughts
This Classic Apple Pie: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe is more than just a dessert—it’s a joyful experience that brings warmth to your kitchen and smiles to your table. Don’t wait for a special occasion to try it; every day deserves a slice of homemade goodness. Trust me, once you make this pie, it’ll quickly become a beloved tradition in your home too.
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Classic Apple Pie: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Classic Apple Pie recipe delivers a perfectly flaky crust filled with a sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple filling. Ideal for any occasion, especially festive holidays like Thanksgiving, it combines tart Granny Smith and sweet Honeycrisp apples for a balanced flavor that’s both comforting and delicious. The pie is baked to golden perfection with an egg wash glaze and optional coarse sugar topping for a beautiful finish.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
- 6–8 tablespoons ice water
Apple Filling
- 6–7 cups peeled, cored, and thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Egg Wash
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk
- Coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Prepare the pie dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing gently until the dough holds together. Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking.
- Make the apple filling: In a separate large bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Roll out the bottom crust: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of chilled dough into a circle slightly larger than your 9-inch pie dish. Transfer it carefully to the pie dish, gently pressing it to fit without stretching.
- Add filling and butter: Pour the apple mixture into the prepared crust and evenly dot the filling with the small pieces of unsalted butter.
- Top crust and decorate: Roll out the second dough disc and cover the filling. Trim the edges and crimp them together with the bottom crust to seal. Cut slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape or create a decorative lattice crust.
- Apply egg wash and sugar: Mix the beaten egg with milk and brush this egg wash evenly over the top crust. Optionally sprinkle coarse sugar for added texture and sparkle.
- Bake the pie: Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes. Then lower the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for an additional 35–40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool before serving: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 2 hours to let the filling set properly for easier slicing and optimal flavor.
Notes
- For a deeper flavor in the filling, add a splash of apple cider or use brown butter instead of regular butter.
- You can prepare the pie crust and apple filling a day in advance and keep them refrigerated. Assemble and bake the pie just before serving for convenience.
