Classic Homemade Apple Pie Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of creating the perfect dessert that wraps warm memories, cozy aromas, and a touch of nostalgia all in one bite, then this Classic Homemade Apple Pie Recipe is exactly what you need. This pie boasts a flaky, buttery crust with soft, tender apples spiced just right to bring that traditional apple pie magic to your table. It’s a comforting, timeless treat that’s as simple as it is spectacular, perfect for sharing with family and friends or indulging all by yourself after a long day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering straightforward yet essential ingredients is the secret to the success of any Classic Homemade Apple Pie Recipe. Each component plays a critical role in building layers of flavor and perfect textures, from the flakiest crust to the warmly spiced apple filling.

• Perfect Pie Crust Recipe: A buttery and tender base that cradles your filling perfectly.
• ¼ cup butter: Adds richness and helps soften the apples during cooking.
• 8 cups thinly sliced apples (peeled and cored): Choose Granny Smith for tartness or Golden Delicious for a sweeter bite.
• 2/3 cup lightly packed brown sugar: Brings caramel notes and sweetness to balance the apples.
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Thickens the filling so it’s perfectly set.
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon: Infuses that classic warm, spicy aroma that defines apple pie.
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens the flavor and prevents the apples from browning.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall taste and balances sweetness.
• 1 egg: Used to make a glossy egg wash for the crust’s irresistible golden finish.
• 1 teaspoon water: Mixed with the egg for an easy egg wash application.
• Coarse sugar (optional): Provides a crunchy, sparkling touch on top.

How to Make Classic Homemade Apple Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Start by melting the butter gently over medium-low heat, then add those thinly sliced apples along with brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, lemon juice, and salt. Stir the mixture lovingly as the apples soften and the spices meld beautifully, about 8 to 10 minutes. This step unlocks the tender, fragrant heart of your Classic Homemade Apple Pie Recipe, giving the apples the perfect balance of spice and sweetness.

Step 2: Roll Out the Crust

While your filling cools, divide your prepared pie dough in half and roll one piece out on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8-inch thick, just a touch larger than your 9-inch pie plate. Transfer this dough carefully to line your pie plate. This base will provide the sturdy yet flaky foundation your filling deserves, so work gently to keep it perfect.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

Pour the cooled filling into your crust-lined pie plate. Next, roll out the second dough disc. You have options here: lay it over the filling as a whole piece or get creative and braid strips of dough for a charming lattice top. Remember to cut vents to let steam escape or leave gaps in your braid. Trim excess dough and crimp the edges with your fingers for that classic look and a good seal.

Step 4: Egg Wash and Bake

Whisk the egg and water together to make your egg wash, then gently brush it over your crust. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if you like a bit of added sparkle and crunch. Bake your pie first at 425°F for 15 minutes to jumpstart browning, then lower the temperature to 350°F and continue baking for about 40 minutes until the crust is golden and bubbling. Keep an eye on the crust during baking—tent with foil if it starts to brown too fast. Let it cool so all those flavors set beautifully.

How to Serve Classic Homemade Apple Pie Recipe

Garnishes

A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can elevate this Classic Homemade Apple Pie Recipe into something truly heavenly. Fresh mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar also make lovely, simple garnishes that add freshness and elegance.

Side Dishes

This classic dessert pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or spiced chai. If you want to make a meal out of it, serving alongside sharp cheddar cheese or creamy custard can bring a surprising depth and contrast that complements the pie’s sweet and spicy notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual mini pies or rustic apple galettes for a charming twist on the Classic Homemade Apple Pie Recipe. You can also layer the filling in clear glass jars or parfait cups, layering crust crumbles, warm apples, and whipped cream for a dazzling deconstructed presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover apple pie keeps beautifully when wrapped tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps the flavors meld even more, and the crust stays pleasantly flaky if warmed properly.

Freezing

You can freeze your Classic Homemade Apple Pie Recipe either before or after baking. Wrap the whole pie tightly in plastic and foil to prevent freezer burn. Frozen unbaked pies can bake straight from the freezer—just add extra baking time. Baked pies thaw overnight in the fridge and can be reheated to regain that fresh-from-the-oven feeling.

Reheating

Reheat slices of apple pie in a warm oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until the crust regains crispness and the filling is bubbling slightly. Avoid the microwave if you want to maintain that flaky crust texture!

FAQs

What type of apples are best for a Classic Homemade Apple Pie Recipe?

Granny Smith apples are highly recommended for their tartness and firm texture, which holds up during baking. However, you can also use Golden Delicious, Gala, or a mix for a sweeter, more nuanced flavor profile.

Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of making my own?

Absolutely! While homemade crust offers the best flavor and flakiness, a quality store-bought crust can save time and still deliver delicious results.

How do I prevent the bottom crust from getting soggy?

Ensuring the filling is cooked down and cooled before filling the crust helps reduce sogginess. You can also bake the bottom crust blind for 10 minutes before adding the filling for extra crispness.

Is it necessary to add lemon juice to the filling?

Yes, lemon juice brightens the apple flavors and prevents browning, keeping your filling fresh-looking and tasting vibrant.

Can I make this pie vegan-friendly?

You can substitute the butter with vegan margarine and use a flax egg or aquafaba for the egg wash. The filling ingredients are naturally vegan, making it easy to adapt!

Final Thoughts

There really is nothing quite like the comforting joy of a Classic Homemade Apple Pie Recipe fresh from your kitchen oven. It’s a timeless dessert that evokes warmth and togetherness with every bite, and it’s surprisingly approachable for bakers of all levels. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a family dinner, or just because you crave a little sweet comfort, this pie will never disappoint. Go ahead and give it a try—you’ll be hooked from the very first slice!

Classic Homemade Apple Pie Recipe

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This classic homemade Apple Pie is the perfect blend of flaky crust and warm, spiced apple filling. Simple yet irresistibly delicious, it features tender apples cooked with cinnamon, brown sugar, and a hint of lemon, all encased in a buttery, golden pie crust. Ideal for dessert or any cozy occasion, this recipe yields a timeless pie that’s sure to impress.

• Author: Paula
• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Pie Crust

• 1 Perfect Pie Crust Recipe*

Filling

• ¼ cup butter
• 8 cups thinly sliced apples, peeled and cored (Granny Smith recommended, but Golden Delicious or Gala will also work)
• ⅔ cup lightly packed brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• ¼ teaspoon salt

Topping

• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon water
• Coarse sugar, optional

Instructions

1. Prepare Oven and Pie Plate: Set aside a 9-inch pie plate and preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready when the pie is assembled.
2. Cook the Filling: Melt the butter in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, lemon juice, and salt. Stir to combine and cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften slightly and the mixture thickens, about 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat and allow to cool completely.
3. Roll Out Bottom Crust: While the filling cools, divide your prepared pie dough into two halves if not already done. On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc to about 1/8-inch thickness, making it a little larger than your pie plate. Gently transfer this dough into the pie plate, pressing it into the edges and bottom.
4. Prepare Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and water until well combined. This will give your pie a shiny, golden crust.
5. Assemble the Pie: Spoon the cooled apple filling into the prepared bottom crust. Roll out the second dough disc into a similar size. You can either place the rolled dough on top as a solid top crust or cut it into strips and create a lattice or braided pattern. If using a solid crust, cut vents in the top to allow steam to escape. Trim excess dough hanging over the sides and pinch or crimp the edges to seal the pie.
6. Apply Egg Wash and Sugar: Brush the egg wash evenly over the top crust to promote browning. If desired, sprinkle coarse sugar over the top for extra sparkle and crunch.
7. Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C). Then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for approximately 40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the vents.
8. Protect the Crust: If the edges or top crust start to brown excessively before the filling is done, tent the pie loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
9. Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing. This resting time allows the filling to set for clean slices.

Notes

• The Perfect Pie Crust Recipe can be referenced for a flaky, buttery crust base.
• Granny Smith apples are preferred for their tartness, but you can use other varieties like Golden Delicious or Gala depending on your sweetness preference.
• To achieve a crunchy sugar topping, coarse sugar is recommended but optional.
• Cooling the pie before slicing ensures the filling sets properly and prevents it from running.
• Use foil shields during baking to prevent over-browning if necessary.