Best Recipe for Apple Pie

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dessert that brings back memories of home, then this is the recipe for you! The Best Recipe for Apple Pie is not just any pie; it’s a celebration of simple ingredients and a touch of love. This pie captures the essence of fall with its sweet, spiced filling, and a flaky crust that’s simply irresistible. Whether it’s for a family gathering or just a cozy night in, this apple pie is sure to please everyone.

What makes this recipe special is that it transforms the traditional apple pie experience into something truly delightful. Say goodbye to mushy fillings and bland flavors! With my easy method, you’ll be enjoying the Best Homemade Apple Pie you’ve ever tasted. Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion—be it holidays, birthdays, or just because you deserve a treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet and tart apples with warm spices creates an unforgettable taste.
• Easy to Follow: Each step is straightforward, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers alike.
• Family Favorite: This classic recipe is bound to become a staple in your household.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the filling in advance and assemble your pie when you’re ready to bake!
• Impressive Presentation: A homemade apple pie looks beautiful on any table and will impress your guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making the Best Recipe for Apple Pie calls for simple and wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Gather these items to create a pie that’s bursting with flavor:

• 1 homemade double pie crust (2 sheets of pie dough)
• 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
• juice from half a lemon (2 tablespoons)
• 5 pounds apples (5 pounds before peeling and coring)
• 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 & 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 3/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 tablespoon milk (for brushing on pie)
• 1 tablespoon beaten egg (optional, for brushing on pie)
• 1 tablespoon raw sugar (for topping pie)

Variations

One of the best things about this apple pie recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add Dried Fruit: Incorporate some dried cranberries or raisins for an additional layer of flavor.
• Change Up the Spices: Try adding ginger or allspice to give your filling a unique twist.
• Use Different Apples: Mix in some Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for extra sweetness!
• Make It Nutty: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans into the filling for added crunch.

How to Make Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Step 1: Choose Your Apples

Start by selecting your apples. For this recipe, you’ll need about 11 large apples, equating to 5 pounds before peeling. I love using Granny Smith, Gala, and Golden Delicious together—the tartness balances perfectly with the sweetness.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a high-sided skillet, zest 1/4 teaspoon of lemon peel. Then add juice from half of that lemon. This citrusy brightness helps keep your apple filling vibrant and fresh!

Step 3: Peel and Slice the Apples

Using an apple peeler or potato peeler, carefully peel each apple. Slice them into thin 1/8 inch pieces. I recommend peeling one apple at a time so they don’t brown too quickly—this keeps everything looking fresh!

Step 4: Cook the Apples

Once all your apples are peeled and sliced, place them in your skillet over medium heat. Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and optional cardamom. Stir gently until everything is combined—the moisture from the apples will help dissolve those dry ingredients.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. Remember to stir every few minutes! The goal here is tender apples that still hold their shape—taste testing is key!

Step 6: Add Vanilla and Cool

Once cooked to perfection, remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Transfer your mixture to a half sheet pan so it can cool completely—this step ensures that you won’t have a soggy crust!

Step 7: Prepare Your Crust

Roll out your homemade double crust dough into a deep 9-inch pie dish. Allow some excess dough to hang over the edges—it’ll make crimping easier later on!

Step 8: Assemble Your Pie

Pour all that delicious cooled apple filling into your prepared crust. Be sure to scrape every last bit into the dish; we want every drop of that gooey goodness!

Step 9: Top with Crust

Place your second sheet of crust over the top of the filling. You can create a lattice design if you’re feeling adventurous! Just remember to vent your crust if you go with a solid top—poke some holes so steam can escape.

Step 10: Chill Before Baking

Pop your assembled pie into the fridge or freezer for about 20–30 minutes before baking. This will help achieve that flaky texture we all love.

Step 11: Preheat Your Oven

While chilling, preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. Make sure it’s nice and hot—this helps set that crust beautifully!

Step 12: Brush and Sprinkle Sugar

Right before baking, brush milk or beaten egg over the crust for color as it bakes. Don’t forget to sprinkle raw sugar on top—it adds sweetness and crunch!

Step 13: Bake Your Pie

Bake at high heat for about 15 minutes until edges start turning golden brown. Then reduce heat to 350 degrees F while covering edges with foil to prevent burning.

Step 14: Finish Baking

Bake at this lower temperature for an additional 40–45 minutes until everything looks beautifully golden brown—your kitchen will smell heavenly!

Step 15: Cool Before Serving

Let your masterpiece cool on a wire rack for about four hours before slicing—it’s worth it! Cutting too soon may result in runny filling.

Once cooled completely, slice up your Best Recipe for Apple Pie! Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream or drizzle caramel sauce over each slice—it’s pure bliss! Store leftovers covered on the counter for up to two days or transfer them to the fridge afterward.

Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Making the perfect apple pie is all about the little details, so here are some helpful tips to ensure your pie turns out delicious every time!

• Choose a mix of apples: Using a variety of apples, like Granny Smith and Gala, adds depth to the flavor and balances sweetness with tartness, making each bite more exciting.

• Pre-cook the filling: Cooking the apple filling before baking prevents a soggy bottom crust and ensures that your apples are perfectly tender while retaining their shape.

• Cool the filling completely: Allowing the apple mixture to cool down before assembling the pie helps prevent steam from making the crust soggy. This step is crucial for achieving that flaky crust you desire!

• Vent your pie: If you’re not using a lattice top, make sure to poke holes in the top crust. This allows steam to escape during baking, reducing the risk of an overflowing pie.

• Let it cool before slicing: Patience is key! Allowing your pie to cool for several hours helps set the filling, making it easier to slice and serve without turning into a gooey mess.

How to Serve Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Serving your apple pie can be as delightful as baking it! Here are some ideas on how to present this classic dessert beautifully.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: Light and airy, whipped coconut cream adds a dairy-free twist that complements the warm flavors of apple pie perfectly.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkle some toasted walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with sweet apples.
• Fresh mint leaves: A few fresh mint leaves can brighten up your pie’s presentation and add a pop of color.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The timeless pairing with warm apple pie, vanilla ice cream melts into the warm filling, creating a creamy contrast that’s hard to resist.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over each slice elevates your dessert with extra sweetness and richness—perfect for those who want an indulgent treat!
• Cheddar cheese: A slice of sharp cheddar cheese served alongside apple pie is a classic combination that offers a unique savory contrast to the sweetness of the dessert.
• Coffee or tea: Pairing your pie with a hot cup of coffee or tea makes for a cozy experience. The warmth enhances the flavors of the pie while providing a comforting end to any meal.

Now you’re all set to impress friends and family with this amazing homemade apple pie! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Best Recipe for Apple Pie is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious homemade pie without the last-minute rush. You can make it ahead of time and store it properly, ensuring it stays fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover apple pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with plastic wrap.
• After 2 days, transfer the pie to the refrigerator to keep it fresh for longer.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze your apple pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• To reheat your apple pie, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with foil.
• Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through. This will help maintain its delicious crust!

FAQs

Here are some common questions related to making the Best Recipe for Apple Pie.

Can I use different types of apples in the Best Recipe for Apple Pie?

Absolutely! A mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith, Gala, and Golden Delicious works beautifully together to enhance flavors.

How can I prevent my apple pie from getting soggy?

To prevent a soggy crust, ensure your apple filling is cool before adding it to the crust. Additionally, you can sprinkle a bit of flour on the bottom crust before adding the filling for extra protection.

What makes this the Best Recipe for Apple Pie?

This recipe stands out because of its cooked filling which ensures a well-balanced flavor and texture. The double crust adds an amazing crunch that complements the spiced apples perfectly!

Can I make this apple pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this pie in advance and store it properly. Check out our storage tips above for detailed instructions.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Best Recipe for Apple Pie as much as I do! It’s a delightful way to bring warmth into your kitchen and share a comforting dessert with loved ones. Whether you serve it warm with ice cream or enjoy it plain, this recipe is sure to create cherished memories. Happy baking!