Apple Pie Recipe

Learn how to make a classic homemade apple pie with a buttery crust and spiced apple filling. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or a comforting dessert. Includes tips, variations, and FAQs for the best results.

Ingredients

• 1 Perfect Pie Crust Recipe*
• ¼ cup butter
• 8 cups thinly sliced apples** (peeled and cored)
• 2/3 cup lightly packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon water
• Coarse sugar (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F and set aside a 9-inch pie plate.
2. In a large pot over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Add the apples, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, lemon juice, and salt. Stir well and cook for 8-10 minutes, occasionally stirring, until the apples soften. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
3. If the pie dough is not already divided into two discs, divide it now. Lightly flour your work surface and roll one disc of dough to about ⅛-inch thickness, ensuring it’s slightly larger than your pie plate. Gently place the rolled dough into the pie plate, pressing it into the bottom.
4. Prepare the egg wash by whisking together the egg and water in a small bowl. Set aside.
5. Pour the cooled apple filling into the prepared pie crust. Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Alternatively, cut the dough into strips and create a braided or lattice design. If using a solid top crust, cut small vents to allow steam to escape. Trim any excess dough hanging over the sides and crimp the edges to seal.
6. Brush the top crust lightly with the egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar, if desired.
7. Bake the pie for 15 minutes at 425°F. Then, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F and continue baking for an additional 40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling bubbles through the vents. If the crust browns too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil during baking.
8. Allow the pie to cool before serving.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This apple pie is a timeless classic that’s easy to make and absolutely delicious. The buttery, flaky crust complements the sweet and spiced apple filling perfectly. It’s a comforting dessert ideal for any occasion, from holidays to casual gatherings.

Tips

• Use a mix of apple varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a balanced sweet-tart flavor.
• Ensure the pie crust is chilled before rolling to prevent sticking.
• For an even bake, place the pie on the middle rack of your oven.
• Use a pie shield or foil to protect the edges of the crust from over-browning.

Variations and Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the crust with a gluten-free pie dough and use gluten-free all-purpose flour in the filling.
• Sugar Alternatives: Swap brown sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a lower-sugar option.
• Spices: Add nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom for a different flavor profile.
• Topping: Replace the top crust with a crumbly streusel topping for a Dutch apple pie variation.

FAQs

Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie dough and apple filling in advance. Store the dough in the fridge and the filling in an airtight container for up to two days. Assemble and bake the pie when ready.

What’s the best way to store leftover pie?
Cover the pie and store it at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days. Reheat slices in the oven for the best texture.

Can I freeze this pie?
Absolutely! Freeze the baked pie tightly wrapped for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven before serving.

Serving

Apple pie is best served slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It also pairs beautifully with a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Suggestions

• Serve this pie at holiday dinners, potlucks, or weekend family meals.
• Pair with a spiced apple cider or a hot cup of tea for a cozy treat.
• Use seasonal apples for the freshest flavor, and get creative with the crust design to make it visually stunning.