I’ve tried many apple pie recipes, but this one stands out for its simplicity and perfect balance of flavors. The crust is flaky and buttery, while the filling combines tart and sweet apples with just the right hint of spice. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned baker, this recipe guarantees success without hassle. The secret lies in a few key steps that transform ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary. What makes it truly special? Let’s find out.
Recipe
Let me tell you, this apple pie is about to become your new go-to dessert—it’s that good. Perfectly flaky crust, a warm, spiced apple filling that’s just the right balance of sweet and tangy, and that irresistible aroma that fills your kitchen like a cozy autumn day.
What makes this recipe a winner? No fancy tricks here—just simple, wholesome ingredients like crisp Granny Smith apples, a hint of cinnamon, and a buttery, golden crust that bakes to perfection every time.
Trust me, whether you’re a baking pro or a total beginner, this pie is foolproof and sure to impress. One bite of that tender apples and buttery crust, and you’ll understand why this is the only apple pie recipe you’ll ever need.
Ingredients
The secret to a flawless apple pie lies in the ingredients—fresh, high-quality components make all the difference. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a first-timer, sticking to these essentials guarantees a pie that’s tender, flavorful, and utterly irresistible. And don’t worry—there’s room for flexibility where it counts!
- Apples: Opt for a mix of tart (Granny Smith) and sweet (Honeycrisp or Fuji) varieties. This balance creates depth of flavor and guarantees the filling isn’t too cloying. Fun tip: slice them thinly for even baking!
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the filling, but brown sugar adds a caramel-like richness. Feel free to adjust based on your preference.
- Flour: Just a tablespoon thickens the filling without making it gloopy. Cornstarch works as a substitute if you’re out of flour.
- Butter: Unsalted butter for the crust keeps it flaky. Don’t skimp here—it’s the backbone of that perfect, golden crust.
- Cinnamon: A warm, cozy spice that’s non-negotiable. Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra depth if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Lemon Juice: A splash brightens the apples and prevents browning. Apple cider vinegar works as a substitute in a pinch.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors. Just a pinch makes a world of difference.
- Pie Crust: Store-bought is fine, but homemade is worth the effort. Pro tip: use ice-cold water and handle the dough minimally for maximum flakiness.
Optional extras like a sprinkle of turbinado sugar on top or a lattice crust design take your pie from simple to stunning. With these ingredients in hand, you’re ready to bake a pie that’ll steal the show!
How to Make the Best Classic Apple Pie Recipe
– Add the top crust or create a lattice design. If using a full top crust, cut a few slits to allow steam to escape during baking.
For a lattice, weave strips of dough over the filling for a beautiful presentation.
– Brush the crust with an egg wash. Whisk together an egg and a tablespoon of milk, then lightly brush it over the crust.
This gives the pie a golden, shiny finish. Pro tip: Sprinkle with coarse sugar for extra crunch.
– Bake for 50–60 minutes. Place the pie on the middle rack and bake until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Visual cue: The apples should be tender when pierced with a knife.
– Cool the pie completely before slicing. Let it sit for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set.
Why this matters: Cutting into a hot pie can make the filling spill out.
– Serve and enjoy! Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a classic treat.
Flexibility: If you prefer a crispier crust, bake for an additional 5–10 minutes.
Nutrition
This delicious apple pie is a classic dessert with a balanced nutritional profile. Here’s the breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 52 g |
| Protein | 3 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 25 g |
Chef Tips
Now that we’ve covered the nutritional side, I want to share some tips I’ve picked up to make the best apple pie.
Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for balanced flavor. Chill your dough before rolling it out to prevent shrinking. Sprinkle sugar on the crust for a golden, crispy finish.
Let the pie cool completely before slicing to set the filling perfectly.
