Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Homemade Apple Pie is a timeless, all-American dessert that features tender, cinnamon-spiced apples encased in a golden, flaky pie crust. Whether served warm with vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this comforting classic is perfect for holidays, gatherings, or any time you crave a nostalgic, cozy treat.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

for the crust
all-purpose flourunsalted butter cold and cubedsugar (optional)saltice water

for the filling
apples peeled and sliced (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)granulated sugarbrown sugarcinnamonnutmeglemon juicecornstarch or all-purpose flourvanilla extractoptional: butter for dotting on top

for the top
egg beaten (for egg wash)sugar for sprinkling

directions

Make the crust:
In a large bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar (if using).
Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add ice water a tablespoon at a time until dough comes together.
Divide dough in half, shape into discs, wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.

Make the filling:
In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, cornstarch, and vanilla until well coated.

Assemble the pie:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Roll out one dough disc and fit into a 9-inch pie dish.
Add apple filling, mounding slightly in the center. Dot with small pieces of butter if desired.
Roll out second dough disc and place over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges.
Cut slits in the top or create a lattice pattern.
Brush with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar.

Bake the pie:
Bake for 45–55 minutes or until crust is golden and filling is bubbling.
Cover edges with foil if browning too quickly.
Let cool for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.Preparation time: 30 minutesChilling time: 1 hourBaking time: 45–55 minutesCooling time: 2 hoursTotal time: 3.5–4 hours

Variations

Add raisins, cranberries, or chopped nuts for texture.

Use store-bought pie dough for convenience.

Add caramel sauce to the apple filling for caramel apple pie.

Try a crumb topping instead of a top crust for Dutch apple pie.

Spice it up with cardamom or ginger for extra depth.

storage/reheating

Store covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for 4–5 days.Reheat slices in the microwave or oven at 300°F (150°C) until warm.

FAQs

What apples are best for apple pie?

A mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp gives the best flavor and texture.

Can I make the dough ahead?

Yes, pie dough can be made and refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.

Do I need to precook the apples?

No, raw apples bake perfectly in the pie and keep a good texture.

How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?

Brush with egg white, sprinkle with a little flour or breadcrumbs, and bake on a lower oven rack.

Can I freeze the whole pie?

Yes, freeze unbaked or baked apple pie and bake or reheat from frozen.

Why is my filling runny?

Be sure to use a thickener like cornstarch and let the pie cool completely to set.

Can I use store-bought crust?

Yes, for a quicker version, store-bought crust works fine.

Should I peel the apples?

Peeling gives a smoother texture, but you can leave skins on if preferred.

How do I know it’s done?

Look for bubbling juices and a deep golden-brown crust.

Can I make mini pies?

Yes, use muffin tins or mini pie pans for individual servings.

Conclusion

Homemade Apple Pie is a comforting, delicious dessert that brings together buttery crust and warmly spiced apples in perfect harmony. With its classic flavor and easy-to-follow steps, this pie is a must-bake for every home baker—especially when shared with those you love.