Few desserts are as comforting, nostalgic, and universally loved as apple pie. Whether it’s served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, baked for the holidays, or enjoyed as a cozy weekend treat, apple pie is a recipe that never goes out of style.
The beauty of this apple pie recipe lies in its simplicity—flaky golden crust, tender apples spiced with cinnamon, and just the right balance of sweet and tart. With the right techniques, you can transform your baking game and make the perfect apple pie every time.
🍏 Choosing the Best Apples for Apple Pie
The key to a great apple pie recipe is choosing apples that hold their shape and offer a balance of flavors. The best options include:
Granny Smith – tart and firm, perfect for baking.
Honeycrisp – sweet with a slight crunch.
Braeburn – balanced flavor, not too sweet.
Fuji or Gala – sweeter apples that pair well with tart ones.
👉 Pro tip: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for depth of flavor.
🛒 Ingredients for the Best Apple Pie Recipe
For the Pie Crust:
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
1 tsp salt
1 tbsp sugar
6–8 tbsp ice water
For the Apple Filling:
6–7 medium apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tbsp all-purpose flour (to thicken)
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp butter (to dot on top of filling)
For Finishing:
1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
1 tbsp sugar (for sprinkling on top)
🍳 Step-by-Step Apple Pie Recipe
1. Make the Pie Dough
In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt.
Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add ice water gradually until dough comes together.
Divide into two discs, wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling
In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with sugars, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
Let sit for 10–15 minutes so flavors blend.
3. Assemble the Pie
Roll out one dough disc and place it in a pie pan.
Add the apple mixture and dot with butter.
Roll out the second dough disc and place over apples. Seal edges and cut slits for steam.
4. Bake the Pie
Brush crust with egg wash and sprinkle sugar on top.
Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, then reduce to 350°F (175°C) and bake another 35–40 minutes until golden brown.
5. Cool and Serve
Allow pie to cool for at least 2 hours to let filling set.
Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream.
🔥 Pro Tips to Transform Your Apple Pie
Chill the dough before rolling to keep it flaky.
Don’t skip the lemon juice—it balances sweetness and prevents browning.
Use a lattice top crust for a beautiful finish and better airflow while baking.
Precook the apples slightly if you want a softer filling.
Sprinkle a little sugar and cinnamon on the crust before baking for extra flavor.
🍽️ Creative Variations to Try
Dutch Apple Pie: Add a crumb topping instead of a top crust.
Caramel Apple Pie: Drizzle caramel sauce into the filling for richness.
Mini Apple Hand Pies: Make small versions perfect for snacking or parties.
Spiked Apple Pie: Add a splash of bourbon or rum for a grown-up twist.
Conclusion
With its buttery crust, warm cinnamon-spiced apples, and irresistible aroma, this apple pie recipe is a true classic that will transform your cooking. Once you master it, you’ll have a go-to dessert for holidays, family gatherings, or cozy evenings at home.
So, roll up your sleeves, grab some apples, and bake your way into comfort with this timeless recipe. 🥧✨