Homemade Apple Pie
Homemade Apple Pie is a classic dessert made with tender cinnamon-spiced apples baked in a flaky buttery crust. Perfect for holidays, family dinners, and comforting homemade treats.
Introduction
Apple pie is one of the most beloved traditional desserts, known for its warm flavors and rustic charm. The combination of sweet and slightly tart apples with cinnamon, sugar, and a flaky pastry crust creates a dessert that is both simple and satisfying.
Making apple pie at home allows you to control the sweetness, spices, and texture of the filling. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed on its own, homemade apple pie is a comforting treat that never goes out of style.
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Bake Time: 50–60 minutes
Cooling Time: 2 hours
Total Time: About 3 hours
Servings: 8 slices
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
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2½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 tablespoon sugar
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1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
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6–8 tablespoons ice water
For the Apple Filling
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6 cups sliced apples (about 6–7 medium apples)
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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¼ cup brown sugar
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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¼ teaspoon nutmeg
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¼ teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Egg Wash
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1 egg
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1 tablespoon milk
Optional topping:
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1 tablespoon coarse sugar for sprinkling
Equipment Needed
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9-inch pie dish
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Mixing bowls
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Rolling pin
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Pastry cutter or fork
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Knife and cutting board
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Baking sheet
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Dough
In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
Add the cold cubed butter and cut it into the flour using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough begins to come together.
Divide the dough into two equal portions, form into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin slices.
Place the apple slices in a large bowl and add granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract.
Mix well until the apples are evenly coated. Set aside while you prepare the crust.
Step 3: Roll Out the Bottom Crust
Remove one dough disc from the refrigerator.
On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter.
Carefully place the rolled dough into the pie dish and press it gently into the bottom and sides.
Step 4: Add the Apple Filling
Pour the prepared apple mixture into the pie crust.
Spread the apples evenly and slightly mound them in the center.
Step 5: Roll Out the Top Crust
Roll out the second dough disc into another 12-inch circle.
Place it over the apple filling.
Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
Step 6: Apply Egg Wash
In a small bowl, beat the egg with milk.
Brush the mixture over the top crust and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
Step 7: Bake the Pie
Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).
Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any filling that may bubble over.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
If the edges brown too quickly, cover them lightly with foil.
Step 8: Cool the Pie
Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This helps the filling set properly.
Serving Suggestions
Homemade apple pie tastes wonderful served:
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Warm with vanilla ice cream
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With whipped cream
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With a drizzle of caramel sauce
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Alongside hot coffee or tea
Storage Tips
Room Temperature: Cover and store for up to 2 days.
Refrigerator: Store for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Wrap the baked pie tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 175°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes.
Tips for the Best Apple Pie
Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor balance.
Slice apples evenly so they cook at the same rate.
Keep the butter cold when making the crust for a flaky texture.
Let the pie cool completely before cutting to prevent a runny filling.
Variations
Caramel Apple Pie
Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple filling before adding the top crust.
Apple Crumble Pie
Replace the top crust with a buttery crumble topping.
Apple Cranberry Pie
Add ½ cup fresh or dried cranberries for a tart twist.
Conclusion
Homemade Apple Pie is a classic dessert that brings warmth and comfort with every bite. The flaky crust and cinnamon-spiced apple filling create a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Whether served at holiday dinners or enjoyed as a simple homemade treat, this traditional pie remains a favorite for generations.