Easy Apple Pie Recipe (with Video)

Easy Apple Pie Recipe: Apple pie is one of the most beloved desserts worldwide. Its flaky, buttery crust combined with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples creates a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner, celebrating a special moment, or just craving something sweet, this recipe guarantees a delightful result.

This step-by-step guide will take you through everything you need to know, from ingredients to baking tips, to ensure you achieve a perfect apple pie every time.

Let’s dive in!

Ingredients Needed

For the Crust:

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

For the Filling:

• 6-7 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• ⅛ tsp salt
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)

Optional Toppings:

• Egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp water)
• Sugar for sprinkling
• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream

This ingredient list keeps the recipe simple yet flavorful, perfect for beginners and experienced bakers alike.

Essential Tools and Equipment

To make this process smooth, gather the following tools:

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Pastry cutter or food processor (for the crust)
• Apple peeler, corer, and slicer
• Pie dish (9-inch)
• Pastry brush
• Sharp knife
• Cooling rack

Substitutes for Specialized Tools:

• No pastry cutter? Use two forks to blend the butter and flour.
• No food processor? Mix by hand using a fork or your fingers.
• No apple slicer? A sharp knife works just fine.

Having everything ready before starting will save time and avoid unnecessary stress.

Preparation Steps Before Baking

Prepping the Apples:

1. Wash and peel the apples.
2. Core and slice them into thin, even pieces (about ¼-inch thick).
3. Toss the slices in lemon juice to prevent browning.

Prepping the Dough:

1. Cut the butter into small cubes and refrigerate it.
2. Chill the water with ice cubes.
3. Measure out all dry ingredients in advance.

These steps ensure your ingredients remain cold, which is crucial for a flaky crust.

Making the Pie Crust

A flaky pie crust is the backbone of any good pie. Follow these steps carefully:

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Add Butter: Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Incorporate Water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together but isn’t sticky.
4. Form and Chill: Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Rolling Out the Dough:

• Lightly flour your surface and rolling pin.
• Roll out one disc to fit the bottom of your pie dish, leaving an inch of overhang.
• Roll the second disc for the top crust and set it aside.

Refrigerating the dough helps prevent shrinking during baking, so don’t skip this step!

Preparing the Apple Filling

Perfectly Sliced Apples:

• Use firm apples to prevent them from becoming mushy during baking.
• Slice them thinly for even cooking.

Mixing the Filling:

1. In a large bowl, mix sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and salt.
2. Add sliced apples and toss until well coated.
3. Stir in lemon juice for extra freshness.

Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes to draw out natural juices. This prevents a soggy crust later.

Assembling the Apple Pie

Now that the crust and filling are ready, it’s time to assemble the pie.

1. Prepare the Pie Dish:
   • Roll out the first disc of dough and carefully transfer it to the pie dish.
   • Gently press it into the bottom and sides, leaving about 1 inch hanging over the edge.
2. Add the Filling:
   • Pour the prepared apple mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly.
   • Dot the filling with small pieces of butter for added richness.
3. Cover the Pie:
   • Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling.
   • Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal.
4. Cut Vent Holes:
   • Use a sharp knife to cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
   • Alternatively, create a lattice crust for a decorative finish (details in the next section).
5. Brush with Egg Wash:
   • Lightly brush the top crust with the egg wash for a golden finish.
   • Sprinkle sugar over the top for added sweetness and texture.

Proper assembly ensures the pie bakes evenly, preventing leakage and sogginess.

Creating Decorative Pie Designs

Decorating your apple pie can make it visually stunning. Here are a couple of simple yet elegant techniques:

Lattice Crust Pattern:

1. Roll out the top crust and cut it into 1-inch strips.
2. Lay half the strips vertically over the pie.
3. Weave the other half horizontally, alternating over and under.
4. Trim and crimp the edges for a clean finish.

Braided Edges:

• Roll out strips of dough and braid them into thin strands.
• Place the braid along the edge of the crust for a decorative touch.

Leaf or Flower Cutouts:

• Use cookie cutters to create shapes and arrange them on top of the crust.
• This adds a festive touch for holidays and special occasions.

These patterns are not just decorative—they also help steam escape, preventing a soggy crust.

Baking the Apple Pie

The baking process is where the magic happens. Follow these tips for a perfectly baked pie:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to fully preheat before baking.
2. Bake the Pie:
   • Place the pie on the middle rack and bake for 15 minutes at 425°F.
   • Reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 35–45 minutes.
3. Check for Doneness:
   • The crust should be golden brown, and the filling should bubble through the vents.
   • If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil or a pie shield.
4. Cooling the Pie: Let the pie cool for at least 2–3 hours to allow the filling to set properly.

Baking at the right temperature and giving the pie time to cool prevents it from falling apart when sliced.

Cooling and Serving Tips

Once baked, cooling the pie properly ensures the flavors settle and the filling thickens.

1. Cool on a Wire Rack:
   • Place the pie on a wire rack to allow air to circulate and cool it evenly.
2. Rest Time:
   • Wait at least 2–3 hours before slicing to prevent the filling from running out.
3. Serving Suggestions:
   • Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
   • Drizzle caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.

Patience is key here—cooling and resting the pie guarantees the perfect slice.

Optional Variations and Add-ons

Want to spice up your apple pie recipe? Here are some creative twists:

1. Caramel Apple Pie:
   • Add a layer of caramel sauce over the apple filling for a richer flavor.
2. Nutty Delight:
   • Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts in the filling for added crunch.
3. Spiced Up Flavor:
   • Add a pinch of cloves, ginger, or allspice for a festive twist.
4. Vegan and Gluten-Free Options:
   • Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust.
   • Substitute butter with plant-based margarine and egg wash with almond milk.

These variations make it easy to cater to different tastes and dietary preferences.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Keeping your apple pie fresh and tasty requires proper storage and reheating methods. Here’s how to do it right:

Storing Your Apple Pie:

1. Room Temperature (Short-Term):
   • If you plan to eat the pie within 1–2 days, simply cover it loosely with foil or plastic wrap and store it at room temperature.
   • Avoid airtight containers, as they can make the crust soggy.
2. Refrigerator (Longer Storage):
   • For longer storage, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate it for up to 4–5 days.
3. Freezer (Extended Storage):
   • To freeze, wrap the pie securely in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
   • Label it with the date and freeze it for up to 3 months.
   • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Your Apple Pie:

1. Oven Method (Best for Crisp Crust):
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Cover the pie with foil to prevent over-browning and heat for 15–20 minutes.
2. Microwave (Quick Fix):
   • For a single slice, microwave on medium power for 30–40 seconds.
   • Keep in mind that the crust may not stay crispy with this method.
3. Air Fryer Method:
   • Reheat slices in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes for a crispy texture.

Using these techniques ensures your pie tastes just as delicious as when it was first baked!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even experienced bakers can run into challenges when making apple pie. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them:

1. Soggy Crust:

• Cause: Too much liquid in the filling or not baking long enough.
• Solution: Toss apples in sugar and let them sit for 10 minutes, then drain excess juice. Pre-bake the bottom crust for 5–7 minutes if needed.

2. Overly Sweet or Bland Filling:

• Cause: Using the wrong type of apples or too much sugar.
• Solution: Use tart apples like Granny Smith and taste-test the filling before baking.

3. Undercooked Apples:

• Cause: Slices are too thick, or baking time is too short.
• Solution: Cut apples thinly (¼ inch) for even cooking and bake until the filling bubbles.

4. Tough or Cracked Dough:

• Cause: Overworking the dough or using warm ingredients.
• Solution: Handle the dough as little as possible and keep ingredients cold.

5. Burnt Edges:

• Cause: Edges cook faster than the center.
• Solution: Use foil or a pie crust shield to protect the edges during baking.

By avoiding these pitfalls, your pie will turn out picture-perfect every time.

Pairing Suggestions for Apple Pie

An apple pie is delightful on its own, but pairing it with the right drink or topping can elevate it even further.

Drinks:

• Hot Beverages: Coffee, chai tea, or hot apple cider complement the spices in the pie.
• Cold Options: Sparkling apple cider or vanilla milkshakes offer a refreshing twist.
• Alcoholic Pairings: Try it with a glass of white wine like Riesling, or a dessert wine like Moscato.

Toppings:

• Classic Choices: Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel sauce.
• Creative Add-ons: Maple syrup drizzle, spiced nuts, or cream cheese frosting for a richer taste.

These combinations make the pie perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive celebrations.

FAQs about Easy Apple Pie Recipe

1. What type of apples is best for making apple pie?

For the perfect blend of sweetness and tartness, Granny Smith apples are a popular choice. However, mixing different types of apples like Honeycrisp and Golden Delicious can add depth and flavor to your pie.

2. Do I need to pre-cook the apples for my pie?

Pre-cooking apples can help control the texture and juiciness of your pie. It prevents the pie crust from becoming soggy and ensures the filling is not too watery. However, it’s an optional step depending on your preference for apple texture.

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

The key to a flaky crust is keeping your fat (butter or shortening) cold and not overworking the dough. Use ice water for mixing, handle the dough as little as possible, and chill it before rolling it out.

4. Can I make apple pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare apple pie ahead of time. You can either refrigerate it unbaked for a few days or freeze it. If frozen, you can bake it directly from the freezer; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

5. How do I prevent the edges of my pie crust from burning?

To prevent the edges from burning, cover them with strips of aluminum foil or a pie crust shield during the first half of baking. Remove the shield halfway through to allow the edges to brown slightly.

6. What’s the best way to thicken apple pie filling?

Cornstarch and flour are common thickeners for apple pie. Mix them with sugar and spices before tossing with the apples to ensure an even distribution that prevents clumping.

7. How long should apple pie cool before serving?

Let your apple pie cool for at least two hours at room temperature. This waiting time allows the filling to set, making the pie easier to slice and serve.

Conclusion

Making an apple pie from scratch may seem intimidating, but with this step-by-step guide, it’s easier than you think! From preparing the perfect flaky crust to creating a flavorful filling, each step is designed to help you bake with confidence.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, this recipe will quickly become a go-to favorite. Enjoy it warm, topped with a scoop of ice cream, or share it with loved ones during holidays and gatherings.

So, roll up your sleeves, grab those apples, and get ready to create a masterpiece that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds!