Name: Apple Pie a la Mode Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup granulated sugar (plus more for the top crust); 1/2 cup packed brown sugar; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 6 to 7 cups tart apples, peeled and thinly sliced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 9-inch pie crusts, thawed (homemade or store-bought); 1 tablespoon butter; 1 egg white; granulated sugar for sprinkling; 1 quart vanilla ice cream

If you’re craving a classic dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent, you’re going to love this Apple Pie a la Mode Recipe. Imagine tender, tart apples enveloped in a flaky, buttery crust, perfectly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, then crowned with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting slowly on top. This recipe captures the cozy essence of homemade goodness, bringing an irresistible balance of sweet, spice, and creamy coolness that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several small clear glass bowls arranged on a white marbled surface. Each bowl contains different ingredients: one has brown sugar, another has white flour, one has a square piece of butter, and another is filled with white granulated sugar. A small white bowl holds three different spices in separate piles: cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. There is also a clear glass bowl with a transparent liquid, likely water, and a cluster of bright green apples piled next to a woman's hand holding a piece of rolled dough on the left side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Apple Pie a la Mode Recipe is wonderfully simple because it relies on staple pantry ingredients and fresh apples to create layers of delicious flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the spices that add warmth to the pie’s aroma to the ice cream that provides the perfect creamy contrast.

Granulated sugar (1/2 cup plus more for the top crust): Sweetens the apple filling and gives a lovely crunch when sprinkled on top.
Brown sugar (1/2 cup, packed): Adds a rich, caramel-like depth to the filling that complements the tart apples beautifully.
All-purpose flour (3 tablespoons): Thickens the juicy apple filling to keep everything nicely set.
Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Brings that classic warm spice note essential to any memorable apple pie.
Ground ginger (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a subtle zing that balances the sweetness perfectly.
Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): A pinch of aromatic spice that rounds out the flavor profile.
Tart apples (6 to 7 cups, peeled and thinly sliced): The star of the dish — tart and firm apples hold their shape and create the perfect filling.
Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Keeps the apples bright and prevents them from browning.
Pie crusts (2 nine-inch, thawed): Flaky and buttery, whether homemade or store-bought, they form the delicious casing for the filling.
Butter (1 tablespoon): Dotting the pie before baking adds richness and helps meld the flavors.
Egg white (1): Used to brush over the crust so it browns to a gorgeous golden color.
Vanilla ice cream (1 quart): For serving, this is the essential component that truly makes it “a la mode” and adds heavenly creaminess.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Apple Pie a la Mode Recipe

Step 1: Prepare your spice and sugar mix

Start by combining the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg in a small mixing bowl. This blend not only sweetens but also flavors and thickens the apple filling, creating that signature warm and cozy taste we all love in apple pie.

Step 2: Toss the apples

In a large bowl, toss your peeled and thinly sliced tart apples with lemon juice—this prevents browning and keeps the filling fresh-looking. Sprinkle the sugar and spice mix over the apples, tossing until every slice is coated in that fragrant, sweet, spiced goodness.

Step 3: Assemble your pie

Roll out one of your pie crusts and carefully lay it into a 9-inch pie pan, trimming the edges neatly. Spoon the coated apple mixture into the crust, then dot with small pieces of butter. This step ensures a melt-in-your-mouth texture and adds a buttery richness to every bite.

Step 4: Add the top crust

Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the apple filling. Trim and seal the edges, then flute them for that classic homemade look. Don’t forget to cut slits in the top crust—this allows steam to escape and keeps the filling from making the crust soggy.

Step 5: Brush and sprinkle

Beat the egg white until foamy and brush it evenly over the top crust. A sprinkle of granulated sugar here adds sparkle and crunch once baked. Cover the edges loosely with foil to prevent over-browning during baking.

Step 6: Bake your pie

Place your pie in the oven preheated to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Bake for 25 minutes with foil on the edges, then remove the foil and continue baking for another 20 minutes, until the crust is beautifully golden and the filling bubbles enticingly. Let it cool on a wire rack until just warm.

Step 7: Serve and enjoy

Slice your warm apple pie into eight generous pieces, plate each slice, and top with a scoop of luscious vanilla ice cream. Watch as it melts into the warm filling, creating the signature Apple Pie a la Mode Recipe experience that’s pure magic with every bite.

How to Serve Apple Pie a la Mode Recipe

A clear glass pie dish holds an unbaked pie covered with a smooth, pale dough layer that is gently domed in the center, with a decorative ruffled edge around the crust. A person's arms, one woman's hand visible, are positioned above the pie while sprinkling coarse salt from a small clear glass bowl onto the pie crust. The scene is set on a white marbled surface, with soft natural light enhancing the warm tones of the dough and the person's skin. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To give your Apple Pie a la Mode Recipe an extra special touch, sprinkle a little warm cinnamon on top of the ice cream or add a drizzle of caramel sauce. A few toasted pecans or a sprig of fresh mint can also bring a lovely contrast in texture or color.

Side Dishes

This classic dessert can shine on its own, but it also pairs superbly with a strong cup of coffee or a glass of spiced apple cider. For an adult twist, a splash of bourbon or a warm mulled wine enhances the autumnal vibe beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun presentation, serve mini versions of this Apple Pie a la Mode Recipe in individual ramekins or pie tins. You can also create a dessert trifle by layering chunks of apple pie with vanilla ice cream and whipped cream in clear glasses for a stunning, layered look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, cover your leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay delicious for up to 4 days, making it an easy dessert to enjoy over a few days without losing its charm.

Freezing

You can freeze the pie before baking or after baking—it’s best wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen pie will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To bring leftover pie back to life, warm individual slices in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10-15 minutes. This brings back the crispy crust and makes the filling bubbling-hot again. Top with fresh ice cream for the ideal Apple Pie a la Mode Recipe revival.

FAQs

Can I use different types of apples in this Apple Pie a la Mode Recipe?

Absolutely! While tart apples like Granny Smith are preferred for their balance of tartness and firmness, blending in sweet varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp can add extra complexity to the flavor and texture.

Is it necessary to use two pie crusts?

Yes, for a traditional double-crust pie you’ll want two crusts: one for the base and one for the top to seal in the filling and achieve that perfect golden, flaky finish integral to an Apple Pie a la Mode Recipe.

What if I don’t have vanilla ice cream?

While vanilla is classic and pairs perfectly, other ice cream flavors like caramel, cinnamon, or even butter pecan can complement the spiced apples beautifully, adding your own personal twist to the dish.

Can I make this pie gluten-free?

Definitely! Substitute the all-purpose flour and pie crusts with gluten-free versions. There are many great store-bought or homemade gluten-free dough options that work well without sacrificing taste or texture.

How do I prevent a soggy pie crust?

Using flour in the filling mixture helps thicken the juices, and cutting slits in the top crust lets steam escape. Also, baking at the right temperature and allowing the pie to cool properly before slicing helps keep the crust nice and crisp.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Pie a la Mode Recipe is one of those timeless treats that never fails to bring a smile. Its perfect harmony of flaky crust, spiced apple filling, and creamy ice cream makes every bite feel like a celebration. I truly encourage you to give this recipe a try soon — it’s a comforting classic that’s sure to become a favorite in your dessert rotation.