Best Apple Pie Recipe (with Video)

Best Apple Pie Recipe: If you’re looking for the perfect apple pie recipe, you’ve come to the right place! With a buttery, flaky crust and a spiced, sweet apple filling, this recipe guarantees a delicious dessert for any occasion. Follow this easy, step-by-step guide to bake a homemade apple pie that will impress your family and friends.

Ingredients for the Best Apple Pie

To make the best apple pie, you need two main components: a flaky pie crust and a flavorful apple filling. Here’s a list of ingredients you’ll need:

Pie Crust Ingredients

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
• 6-8 tablespoons ice water

Apple Filling Ingredients

• 6-7 medium apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for topping)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)

Essential Tools for Making Apple Pie

Before diving into the recipe, gather these essential kitchen tools:

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• 9-inch pie dish
• Sharp knife or apple peeler
• Pastry brush
• Baking sheet

Step 1: Preparing the Pie Crust

How to Make a Homemade Pie Crust

The key to a great apple pie starts with a flaky, buttery crust. Here’s how to prepare it:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Add the Butter: Add cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Ice Water: Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, while mixing gently. Stop adding water once the dough starts to come together.
4. Form the Dough: Divide the dough into two equal portions, flatten them into disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Step 2: Selecting the Right Apples

Best Apple Varieties for Pie

Choosing the right apples is essential for achieving the perfect texture and flavor. The best apples for pie are a mix of sweet and tart varieties, such as:

• Granny Smith (tart and firm)
• Honeycrisp (sweet and crisp)
• Golden Delicious (mildly sweet)
• Braeburn (balanced sweetness)

Mixing two or three varieties will give the pie a complex, delicious flavor.

Step 3: Preparing the Apple Pie Filling

Spices and Sweeteners for the Filling

The combination of sugar, spices, and apples makes the filling irresistible. Here’s how to prepare it:

1. Peel and Slice the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges or chunks.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and flour.
3. Marinate: Let the apples sit for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the juices to release and ensures all the flavors meld together.

Why Add Lemon Juice?

Lemon juice prevents the apples from browning and adds a tangy note that balances the sweetness.

Step 4: Assembling the Apple Pie

Rolling Out the Dough

1. Remove one portion of the chilled dough from the refrigerator. On a lightly floured surface, roll it out into a 12-inch circle (about ¼ inch thick).
2. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie dish. Press it gently into the dish, allowing some overhang.

Placing the Filling and Covering the Pie

1. Add the Apple Filling: Spoon the prepared apple mixture into the pie crust. Dot the top with small pieces of butter for added richness.
2. Cover the Pie: Roll out the second portion of dough and either cover the pie fully or create a lattice top (instructions below).

Step 5: Creating the Perfect Pie Lattice Top

A lattice top not only looks beautiful but also allows steam to escape while baking. Here’s how to create it:

1. Roll out the second portion of dough and cut it into even strips using a sharp knife or pastry cutter.
2. Lay half of the strips across the pie, spacing them evenly.
3. Fold back alternating strips and weave the remaining strips over the top to form a crisscross pattern.
4. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal.

Brush the lattice with an egg wash (1 beaten egg + 1 tablespoon water) to give it a golden finish.

Step 6: Baking the Apple Pie

Correct Oven Temperature and Timing

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
3. Bake the pie for 20 minutes at 400°F, then reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes.
4. The pie is ready when the crust is golden brown, and the filling is bubbling.

Step 7: Cooling and Serving the Apple Pie

Once baked, allow the pie to cool for at least 2-3 hours before serving. This helps the filling set properly. Serve the pie warm or at room temperature with:

• A scoop of vanilla ice cream
• Whipped cream
• A dusting of powdered sugar

Tips for a Perfect Apple Pie

Achieving the perfect apple pie involves a few tricks and tips that can elevate your dessert:

1. Keep Your Ingredients Cold: Cold butter and ice water ensure a flaky crust.
2. Don’t Overwork the Dough: Overmixing the dough can make it tough instead of tender and flaky.
3. Mix Apple Varieties: Combine tart and sweet apples for the best flavor and texture.
4. Allow the Filling to Sit: Marinating the apple filling allows the flavors to blend and thickens the juices.
5. Use an Egg Wash: Brushing the top crust with egg wash gives it a shiny, golden finish.
6. Protect the Edges: Use a pie crust shield or aluminum foil to prevent the edges of the crust from burning.
7. Let the Pie Cool: Cooling the pie helps the filling thicken, ensuring clean slices when serving.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced bakers can make mistakes when baking apple pie. Here are common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

1. Soggy Bottom Crust: Prevent a soggy crust by preheating your oven properly and baking on the lower rack. You can also brush the bottom crust with egg white to create a barrier.
2. Using the Wrong Apples: Avoid overly soft apples as they will turn mushy. Stick to firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
3. Overfilling the Pie: While it’s tempting to add more apples, overfilling can cause spills and an uneven bake.
4. Skipping the Resting Time: Cutting into the pie too soon will result in runny filling. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.

Best Toppings for Apple Pie

While apple pie is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right toppings can take it to the next level. Here are some classic options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the warm, spiced flavors perfectly.
2. Whipped Cream: Light, fluffy whipped cream adds a delicious contrast to the dense filling.
3. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over the pie for a decadent touch.
4. Cheddar Cheese: A slice of sharp cheddar cheese is a traditional topping that adds a savory contrast.
5. Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar enhances the presentation.

Storage Tips for Apple Pie

To enjoy your apple pie for days, proper storage is essential:

How to Store Leftovers

• At Room Temperature: Cover the pie loosely with foil or plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• In the Refrigerator: For longer storage, wrap the pie tightly and refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes.
• Freezing: Apple pie can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it in the oven.

FAQs about the Best Apple Pie Recipe

1. What are the best apples for apple pie?

For the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, Granny Smith apples are highly recommended. However, for a more nuanced flavor, consider mixing different types such as Honeycrisp and Golden Delicious.

2. How do I prevent my apple pie from becoming too watery?

To avoid a soggy pie, toss your apple slices with a little flour or cornstarch and let them sit for 10 minutes before assembling the pie. This step helps to absorb excess juices during baking.

3. What is the secret to a flaky pie crust?

Keeping all your ingredients, especially the butter and water, cold is crucial. Also, handle the dough as little as possible to prevent the activation of gluten, which can make the crust tough.

4. Can I make apple pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and refrigerate your apple pie a day in advance. Alternatively, bake it and then freeze it. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven to serve.

5. What are some variations I can try with my apple pie recipe?

Experiment by adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice. Some recipes also include additions like caramel or pecans for extra texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Baking the best apple pie is a rewarding experience, combining a buttery, flaky crust with sweet, spiced apple filling. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll create a classic homemade dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it with vanilla ice cream or enjoy it plain, this apple pie recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds.