Classic Apple Pie Recipe

If you are searching for a cozy, timeless dessert that radiates warmth and nostalgia, this Classic Apple Pie Recipe will quickly become your go-to. With its tender, cinnamon-spiced apple filling nestled beneath a golden, buttery lattice crust, every bite offers that perfect harmony of sweetness and tartness. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or a special occasion, this pie embodies the heart of homemade comfort food, making it an absolute joy to prepare and even more delightful to share.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple but purposeful ingredients is key to creating a Classic Apple Pie Recipe that bursts with flavor and has that signature texture. Each component works together beautifully to craft the perfect balance of crisp crust and luscious filling.

• Double pie crust: A flaky and buttery foundation that holds everything together with just the right crunch.
• Granny Smith apples (2 1/4 lbs): Tart green apples provide firmness and a bright, tangy contrast to the sweetness.
• Cinnamon (1 1/2 tsp): Adds a warm, spicy note that complements the apples perfectly.
• Unsalted butter (8 Tbsp): Melts into the filling to create rich depth and silky texture.
• All-purpose flour (3 Tbsp): Thickens the luscious filling ensuring it’s not runny but just right.
• Water (1/4 cup): Helps blend the flavors and keeps the filling moist but not soggy.
• Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the tart filling to perfection without overpowering.
• Egg (1) and water (1 Tbsp): Make a simple egg wash that gives the crust a beautiful golden sheen and crisp finish.

How to Make Classic Apple Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by making or using a prepared double pie crust recipe. Chill it while you prepare the filling. This helps the butter stay cold and ensures a flaky crust after baking.

Step 2: Preheat Your Oven

Set your oven to a hot 425°F (218°C) to get your pie off to a great start with high heat that encourages a perfect crust bake and bubbling filling.

Step 3: Create the Filling Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat, then whisk in flour to form a smooth roux that cooks for a minute. Gradually add water and sugar, bringing the mixture to a boil before simmering gently. This thick, sweet sauce will coat each apple slice beautifully and keep the filling moist and luscious.

Step 4: Prepare the Apples

Peel, core, and thinly slice Granny Smith apples, then toss them with cinnamon in a large bowl. This warms up the apples with spice and builds that classic flavor profile you crave.

Step 5: Combine Apples and Sauce

Pour the hot sugar-butter sauce over the sliced apples, stirring gently to coat every piece. This step ensures your filling is bursting with flavor and has a smooth, lightly thickened texture.

Step 6: Assemble the Bottom Crust and Add Filling

Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the bottom crust to a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie plate and mound the apple mixture in the center, leaving room around the edges for sealing and preventing spills.

Step 7: Create the Lattice Top

Roll out the second pie crust to an 11-inch round and cut into 10 strips. Weave these strips over the filling to create a classic lattice pattern—this both looks stunning and allows steam to vent during baking.

Step 8: Apply Egg Wash

Beat the egg with water and brush this over the lattice crust. This egg wash will give your pie a glossy, golden finish that will make it the star of any table.

Step 9: Bake the Pie

Bake the pie at 425°F for 15 minutes to set the crust, then lower the temperature to 350°F (177°C) and continue baking for 45 minutes until the filling is tender and bubbling. This two-stage baking ensures a perfectly cooked filling with a crisp crust.

Step 10: Cool and Set

Once baked, let the pie rest at room temperature for one hour. This important step helps the filling set so when you slice into it, everything stays beautifully intact.

How to Serve Classic Apple Pie Recipe

Garnishes

A dusting of powdered sugar or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream instantly elevates the classic apple pie experience. Freshly whipped cream with a hint of cinnamon can also add a lovely, airy contrast to each warm bite.

Side Dishes

Pair your apple pie with a simple cup of rich coffee or a warm spiced cider for a comforting, heartwarming combo. For a savory balance, a sharp cheddar cheese slice on the side can truly surprise and delight your taste buds.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve slices in rustic ceramic bowls drizzled with caramel sauce for extra indulgence, or create an apple pie parfait by layering chunks of pie with whipped cream and granola. For an eye-catching touch, decorate your lattice with small apple-shaped dough cutouts before baking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Classic Apple Pie Recipe leftovers keep beautifully covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for up to four days, allowing the flavors to deepen and the crust to soften slightly.

Freezing

To enjoy your pie later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes. This refreshes the crisp lattice and warms the filling evenly without drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use apples other than Granny Smith for this Classic Apple Pie Recipe?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are preferred for their tartness and firmness, you can mix in sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp to add complexity. Just be mindful of the texture, as some apples get mushy when baked.

Do I have to make the pie crust from scratch?

No, store-bought pie crusts can be a convenient shortcut, though homemade crust will always enhance the flavor and texture. If you use a store-bought crust, make sure it’s thawed before assembling.

Why is there a lattice crust on top instead of a solid one?

The lattice crust allows steam to escape while baking, preventing a soggy bottom crust and creating a beautiful golden pattern. It also gives the pie that classic, inviting look everyone loves.

How can I prevent my pie crust from getting soggy?

Using the roux-based filling sauce helps prevent sogginess by thickening the juices, and lining the crust with a light coating of egg wash seals it against moisture absorption. Baking at a high temperature initially also helps set the crust.

Can I make this pie vegan or gluten-free?

For vegan or gluten-free versions, you can substitute the butter with plant-based margarine and use a gluten-free flour blend and pie crust. Keep in mind, texture and flavor may differ slightly but can still be delicious.

Final Thoughts

When you bake this Classic Apple Pie Recipe, you’re not just making dessert—you’re creating a moment of joy wrapped in flaky, golden crust and warm spiced apples. Give it a try and watch as it becomes a beloved staple that everyone looks forward to enjoying as much as you do preparing it. Happy baking!

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