Nothing beats the aroma of a freshly baked apple pie filling your kitchen! With crisp apple slices tossed in cinnamon and sugar, baked between two layers of buttery, flaky crust, this homemade apple pie is the ultimate comfort dessert.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic and comforting – A timeless favorite for any occasion.
- Simple ingredients – Uses pantry staples and fresh apples.
- Customizable – Choose your preferred apple variety for different flavors.
Choosing the Best Apples for Apple Pie
The key to a great apple pie is using the right apples. Here are some of the best options:
- Jonagold – Sweet with a slight tartness and holds its shape well.
- Honeycrisp – Crisp, juicy, and perfectly balanced.
- Braeburn – Firm texture and a lovely balance of sweet and tart.
- Cortland – Soft yet flavorful, great for baking.
- Granny Smith – Tart and firm, perfect for those who enjoy a tangy pie.
Egg Wash Options for the Perfect Golden Crust
Brushing the pie crust before baking gives it a beautiful finish. Here are some options:
- For a shiny, light brown crust: Lightly beaten egg white with a teaspoon of water.
- For a glossy golden crust: Egg yolk mixed with a teaspoon of water.
- For a crisp, brown crust: Just brush with water.
- For extra sparkle: Sprinkle with sugar before baking.
Main Ingredients Needed
- 6 medium apples (peeled, cored, and sliced into ¼-inch thick pieces)
- ¾ cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 double pie crust
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Pie Dough
Roll out the top and bottom pie crusts. If making homemade crust, check out our Pie Crust Basics guide for tips on achieving the perfect flakiness.
2. Slice and Season the Apples
Peel, core, and slice the apples evenly. Toss them in sugar, flour, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and lemon juice for a flavorful filling.
3. Assemble the Pie
- Line a 9-inch pie plate with the bottom crust.
- Fill with the apple mixture.
- Cover with the top crust, sealing and crimping the edges.
- Cut slits in the top crust for steam to escape.
- Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar if desired.
4. Bake the Pie
- Preheat the oven to 425°F.
- Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F.
- Reduce temperature to 375°F and continue baking for 30 minutes or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
- To prevent over-browning, cover the edges with foil after 15-20 minutes of baking.
5. Check for Doneness
The ideal internal temperature for a fully baked apple pie is 195°F (91°C). Use a digital thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
6. Cool and Serve
Let the pie cool completely before slicing. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or homemade whipped cream.
Storage and Freezing Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers wrapped in foil or in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Room Temperature: Store at room temperature for up to 2 days if the weather isn’t too warm.
- Freezing (Unbaked): Wrap the unbaked pie in foil and freeze for up to 1 month.
- Baking from Frozen: Bake as directed, adding about 15 extra minutes to the baking time.
FAQs & Expert Tips
How do I keep the bottom crust from getting soggy?
- Use a glass or metal pie dish for better heat distribution.
- Sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs or flour on the bottom crust before adding the apples.
Can I brush the pie crust with butter instead of egg wash?
Yes! Brushing the crust with melted butter will give it a softer, rich finish instead of a glossy golden crust.
More Delicious Apple Recipes
- Apple Crumb Pie – A crunchy, sweet alternative.
- Easy Apple Puff Pastry Danish – A quick and elegant breakfast treat.
- Caramel Apple Dump Cake – Perfect for a simple, comforting dessert.
This homemade apple pie is the perfect way to bring warmth and nostalgia to any gathering. Whether for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a weekend treat, it’s sure to be a hit!
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