If you’ve ever dreamed of mastering a quintessential dessert that fills your home with the warm, inviting scent of cinnamon-spiced apples wrapped in flaky, buttery crust, then this Homemade Classic Apple Pie Recipe is your new baking best friend. It’s a timeless treat that blends simple, wholesome ingredients into a show-stopping pie that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a cozy night in, this recipe delivers that perfect balance of sweet and spice, with a crust that crumbles beautifully and a filling bursting with tender, flavorful apples.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here plays a starring role in creating the perfect apple pie experience. From the crisp apples to the buttery crust, each piece combines to bring texture, flavor, and that classic golden hue we all love.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender, flaky crust that holds everything together.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed: Essential for flaky, buttery layers in the crust.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Balances flavors and enhances the sweetness of the filling.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to the crust.
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water: Keeps the dough cool and helps it come together without getting tough.
- 6 cups thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended): Crisp, flavorful apples for the perfect pie filling texture and taste.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling without overpowering the apples.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like undertone to the filling.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the juicy filling to prevent sogginess.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Classic warm spice that pairs beautifully with apples.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds depth and warmth to the spice mix.
- 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice: A subtle hint of complexity to elevate the flavors.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the filling and balances sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed: Adds richness and a glossy finish to the filling.
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash): Creates a golden, shiny crust.
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling): Gives a lovely sparkle and slight crunch on top.
How to Make Homemade Classic Apple Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by combining the flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. This dry mixture sets the stage for a perfectly balanced crust that isn’t too sweet but just right for holding the filling.
Step 2: Cut in the Butter
Next, cut the cold, cubed butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. The secret to that delectably flaky crust lies here—cold butter creates pockets that puff up during baking.
Step 3: Add Ice Water
Slowly add ice water a tablespoon at a time, gently mixing just until the dough starts to come together. Be careful not to overwork it since that can make the crust tough.
Step 4: Chill the Dough
Divide your dough into two disks, wrap each in plastic, and chill in the fridge for at least an hour. This resting period relaxes the gluten and firms the dough, making it easier to roll out.
Step 5: Make the Filling
In a large bowl, toss the thinly sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and lemon juice. This spice and sugar combo will caramelize beautifully while baking.
Step 6: Let the Filling Rest
Allow the apple mixture to sit for about 15 minutes. This step lets the spices blend and the apples release some juice, creating a luscious filling.
Step 7: Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one disk of dough and carefully place it into a 9-inch pie pan, trimming any excess edges. This forms the sturdy base of your pie.
Step 8: Add the Filling
Pour the apple mixture into the crust, then dot the surface with small cubes of butter for extra richness and a golden finish.
Step 9: Top It Off
Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the filling, trimming and crimping the edges to seal the pie. Don’t forget to cut a few slits in the top crust for steam to escape—this keeps your crust from getting soggy.
Step 10: Bake the Pie
Brush the top crust with beaten egg for that gorgeous shine, then sprinkle with a tablespoon of sugar for a hint of crunch. Bake the pie for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the crust is deeply golden and the filling is bubbling through the vents.
Step 11: Cool Before Serving
After pulling the pie from the oven, give it a solid two hours to cool. This waiting game helps the filling thicken up perfectly, so every slice holds its shape beautifully.
How to Serve Homemade Classic Apple Pie Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream makes for a classic presentation that elevates every bite. A light dusting of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also add a wonderful finishing touch.
Side Dishes
Serve this pie alongside a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for a comforting combo. For a more grown-up flair, pair it with a sharp cheddar cheese slice—surprisingly incredible with apple pie!
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, try serving individual mini apple pies or even apple pie turnovers using this filling. You can also cut the pie into rustic wedges and serve on wooden boards with fresh apple slices for a charming, rustic look.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and keep it refrigerated. It will stay fresh for up to four days, maintaining both the flaky crust and juicy filling.
Freezing
This Homemade Classic Apple Pie Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the unbaked pie well and freeze for up to two months, or freeze already baked portions for easy reheating later.
Reheating
Reheat slices in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes to revive that crisp crust and warm filling. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the crust flaky and not soggy.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great for their tartness and firmness, feel free to mix in other varieties like Fuji or Gala for a more complex flavor.
Is it possible to make the crust without butter?
Butter is key for flavor and flakiness, but you can substitute with shortening or a mix of butter and shortening if you prefer. Just expect a slightly different texture.
How do I prevent the crust edges from burning?
Cover the edges with foil or a pie shield partway through baking to prevent over-browning while the filling cooks through.
Can I prepare the pie entirely ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the pie and keep it refrigerated overnight before baking. Just bring it to room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in a preheated oven.
What can I do if the filling is too runny?
Make sure to toss the apples with enough flour or even a small amount of cornstarch to help thicken the juices and maintain a perfect consistency.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Homemade Classic Apple Pie Recipe inspires you to get into the kitchen and create something unforgettable. It’s one of those desserts that feel like a hug in every bite, carrying warmth, nostalgia, and love. Once you master it, this pie will become a go-to favorite—trust me, your friends and family will be asking for seconds again and again!
Print
Homemade Classic Apple Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic homemade apple pie recipe features a buttery, flaky crust filled with a spiced apple mixture made from fresh Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples. Perfectly balanced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of allspice, this pie is baked to golden perfection, boasting a deliciously sweet and tender filling ideal for dessert or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 6–8 tablespoons ice water
Apple Filling
- 6 cups thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
Topping
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar to create the dry base for the pie dough.
- Cut in the butter: Add the cold, cubed unsalted butter to the flour mixture and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs, which helps create a flaky crust.
- Add ice water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until a dough forms that holds together but is not too wet.
- Chill the dough: Divide the dough into two equal disks, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to relax the gluten and firm up the butter.
- Make the filling: In a separate bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and lemon juice to evenly coat and enhance the flavors.
- Let sit: Allow the apple mixture to rest for 15 minutes so the spices and sugar can meld and the apples release some juice.
- Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for a golden crust and bubbling filling.
- Roll out crust bottom: Roll out one chilled dough disk on a lightly floured surface and place it into a 9-inch pie pan. Trim any excess dough around the edges.
- Fill the pie: Spoon the apple filling into the crust-lined pan, spreading it evenly and dotting the top with the cubed butter for richness.
- Roll out crust top: Roll out the second dough disk and cover the pie with it, trimming excess dough, crimping the edges to seal, and cutting slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Apply egg wash: Brush the beaten egg over the top crust to promote browning and sprinkle with sugar for added texture and sweetness.
- Bake the pie: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling, signaling that it is cooked through.
- Cool before serving: Let the pie cool on a wire rack for about 2 hours to allow the filling to set, making it easier to slice and enhancing the flavors.
Notes
- For a crisper crust, ensure the butter and water are cold before mixing.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet-tart Honeycrisp for best flavor and texture.
- Adjust sugar according to sweetness of apples and personal preference.
- Cover edges with foil if crust browns too quickly during baking.
- Allowing the pie to cool completely helps the filling thicken properly.
