Classic Apple Pie is a timeless dessert that embodies the flavors of sweet, spiced apples encased in a flaky, buttery crust. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or simply as a comforting treat, this pie brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth with every bite. The combination of tart apples, warm spices, and a golden crust makes this pie an all-time favorite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this Classic Apple Pie for its perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, enhanced by a blend of warm spices. The homemade crust is flaky and buttery, providing the perfect vessel for the tender, juicy apple filling. This pie is easy to make and guaranteed to impress both family and friends, making it a must-have dessert for any occasion.
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Use a mix of apples: For the best flavor and texture, use a combination of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
- Keep ingredients cold: Ensure your butter and water are cold when making the pie crust to achieve a flaky texture.
- Prevent a soggy crust: Blind bake the bottom crust and let the apple filling cool before assembling to prevent a soggy bottom.
- Even slices: Slice the apples evenly to ensure they cook uniformly.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Gluten-free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the pie crust to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Vegan option: Replace the butter with vegan margarine and use a plant-based egg wash.
- Different spices: Add a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or cardamom for extra warmth.
- Top crust options: Use a lattice top, crumb topping, or a full top crust with decorative cut-outs.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve Classic Apple Pie warm or at room temperature, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot apple cider. This pie is also a fantastic addition to any holiday dessert table or family dinner.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Room temperature: Store the pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Keep the pie in the refrigerator for up to 5 days to extend its freshness.
- Freezing: Freeze the baked pie for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.
Recipe FAQs
What are the best apples to use for apple pie? A mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji provide a balanced flavor and texture.
How do I prevent my pie crust from getting soggy? Blind bake the bottom crust and let the apple filling cool before assembling to prevent a soggy bottom.
Can I use a store-bought pie crust? Yes, you can use store-bought pie crust for convenience.
How do I know when the pie is done? The crust should be golden brown, and the filling should be bubbly. The apples should be tender when pierced with a knife.
Can I make the pie in advance? Yes, you can make the pie a day ahead. Store it at room temperature or in the refrigerator, then reheat before serving if desired.
Grandma's Apple Pie
A cherished family recipe that has stood the test of time.
Ingredients
- 6-7 medium-sized apples, peeled and thinly sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- A pinch of love
Pie Crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into cubes
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of love. Toss gently until the apples are coated evenly.
- In a separate bowl, prepare the crust by mixing the flour and salt. Add the chilled butter cubes and cut them into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Divide the dough in half, forming two discs, and wrap them in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to fit the bottom of a pie dish. Carefully transfer the dough to the dish, gently pressing it into the bottom and sides.
- Pour the apple filling into the prepared pie crust, ensuring an even distribution.
- Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Trim the excess dough, leaving a 1-inch overhang. Fold the edges under and crimp with a fork or your fingertips to seal the pie.
- Using a sharp knife, create small vents in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 10 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 427Total Fat: 19gSaturated Fat: 12gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 49mgSodium: 216mgCarbohydrates: 63gFiber: 4gSugar: 33gProtein: 4g
