Classic Homemade Apple Pie Recipe

“`html

If you’re anything like me, there’s something truly magical about the aroma and warmth of a homemade dessert fresh from the oven. This Classic Homemade Apple Pie Recipe is just that kind of magic—combining tender, buttery crust with a luscious, cinnamon-spiced apple filling that’s sure to evoke nostalgia and smiles at every bite. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or just a cozy night in, this pie is the perfect way to bring everyone together around a timeless flavor that never fails to comfort and delight.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the perfect apple pie starts with simple, honest ingredients that work together to create incredible flavor and texture. Each item on this list plays a vital role, from the flaky crust to the luscious filling, ensuring your pie comes out beautifully every time.

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a flaky, tender pie crust that holds the filling perfectly without getting soggy.
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Adds just a touch of sweetness to balance savory notes in the crust.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and rounds out the sweetness beautifully.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed: The secret to a buttery, flaky crust that melts in your mouth.
• 6-8 tablespoons ice water: Keeps the dough cold and helps bring it together without toughness.
• 6-7 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Crisp and tart apples give the filling a wonderful balance of sweetness and structure.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the apple filling just right.
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar: Adds depth and caramel-like richness to the filling.
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the filling so it isn’t runny and holds together nicely.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The warm spice that pairs perfectly with apples.
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds subtle complexity and warmth.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the filling and balances the sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces: Dotting the filling with butter makes the top luscious and rich as it bakes.
• 1 tablespoon milk (for brushing the crust): Creates a beautiful golden-brown finish on top.
• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and sparkle on your crust.

How to Make Classic Homemade Apple Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by combining the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Then add the chilled, cubed butter. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. This is the key step to getting that flaky texture everyone loves.

Step 2: Bring the Dough Together

Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing just enough until the dough starts to cling together when pressed. Don’t overwork it; you want tender, not tough. Split the dough in half, shape each piece into a disc, wrap them in plastic wrap, and chill for at least one hour. Patience here yields the best crust!

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Filling

While the dough chills, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice in a large bowl. Toss everything gently to coat each slice evenly. Letting the mixture sit while the dough chills helps the flavors blend and develop that irresistible warmth.

Step 4: Roll Out the Bottom Crust

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly flour your surface and roll out one disc of dough into a circle big enough to line a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer it carefully to the pan and trim away any excess dough hanging over the edges. This will be your edible, buttery foundation for the filling.

Step 5: Fill and Dot with Butter

Pour the apple mixture into the crust, spreading the fruit out evenly. Then dot the surface with small pieces of unsalted butter—this little touch creates luscious pockets of richness as the pie bakes.

Step 6: Top with the Second Crust

Roll out the second dough disc to cover the pie. Trim the edges and crimp them together to seal all those sweet juices inside. Don’t forget to cut a few slits on top to let steam escape, which helps prevent the crust from getting soggy and keeps the filling perfect.

Step 7: Finish and Bake

Brush the top crust with milk to help it brown nicely, then sprinkle with coarse sugar if you like a little extra sparkle and texture. Bake the pie for about 45 to 50 minutes or until the crust is a golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the crust edges brown too fast, cover them with foil or a pie shield halfway through baking.

Step 8: Cool Before Serving

Resist the temptation to dive in right away! Allow the pie to cool for at least two hours to let the filling set perfectly. This patience makes slicing neater and flavor even more delicious.

How to Serve Classic Homemade Apple Pie Recipe

Garnishes

A scoop of vanilla ice cream is an absolute classic companion to your apple pie, complementing the warm spices and buttery crust beautifully. Fresh whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce can take this dessert to next-level indulgence.

Side Dishes

While the pie is wonderful all on its own, consider serving it alongside a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a glass of cold milk. For a heartier dessert experience, pairing it with a sharp cheddar cheese slice on the side offers a surprisingly delightful contrast that pie lovers rave about.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress friends or family? Serve your Classic Homemade Apple Pie Recipe in rustic mini mason jars layered with pie filling, or create individual hand pies using the same filling and crust. You can even dust the top with powdered sugar or arrange thin apple slices on top of the crust before baking for a stunning visual effect.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days, maintaining that wonderful flavor and texture without drying out.

Freezing

This Classic Homemade Apple Pie Recipe freezes beautifully! Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then in foil, or place it in an airtight container before freezing. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer, perfect for making ahead for holidays or special occasions.

Reheating

Reheat slices gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes to revive the crisp crust and warm the filling without drying it. Avoid microwaving when possible, as that can make the crust soggy and less enjoyable.

FAQs

What kind of apples work best for this Classic Homemade Apple Pie Recipe?

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are ideal because they hold their shape well during baking and provide the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness that makes this pie shine.

Can I make the crust from scratch ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to two days ahead and keep it wrapped tightly in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before rolling out.

What if I don’t have brown sugar for the filling?

You can substitute with an equal amount of white sugar mixed with a teaspoon of molasses if you have it, or simply use all granulated sugar; the pie will still taste delicious.

Is it necessary to chill the dough before baking?

Yes. Chilling the dough helps the butter stay cold and firm, which in turn creates that desirable flaky texture in your pie crust.

How can I prevent the crust edges from burning during baking?

Cover the crust edges with aluminum foil or a pie shield about halfway through baking, and this will protect them from over-browning while the pie finishes cooking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about making and sharing this Classic Homemade Apple Pie Recipe. It’s more than just dessert; it’s an experience filled with warmth, comfort, and the joy of gathering around the table. I hope you’ll give this recipe a go and create your own delicious memories with every slice! Happy baking!

“`

Print