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Ah, homemade apple pie! It’s more than just a dessert; it’s a warm embrace from the oven, a comforting scent that fills the kitchen with nostalgia, and a delicious reminder of family gatherings and autumn afternoons. I’ll never forget the first time I learned to make apple pie with my grandmother. We spent the afternoon peeling apples, their sweet juice trickling down our fingers, and giggling as we floured the counter with abandon. Her secret was in the spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and a little bit of love. The moment that golden crust emerged from the oven, with its flaky layers and fragrant filling, was pure magic. Let me tell you, that first bite was like tasting a hug!
If you haven’t made homemade apple pie yet, or if you have but want to elevate it to a new level, you’re in the right place. Both simple and satisfying, this recipe will have you falling in love with your own kitchen again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Steps: Even if you’re a novice baker, this pie comes together easily.
- Heavenly Aroma: The scent of baking apples will fill your home with irresistible sweetness.
- Customizable: Adjust the spice level or sweetness to suit your taste.
- Perfect for Sharing: It’s a crowd-pleaser, perfect for gatherings or cozy family dinners.
- Classic Comfort Food: There’s nothing quite like a slice of warm apple pie to make you feel at home.
Ingredients
6 cups thinly sliced apples
Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for depth of flavor! Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work wonderfully together.1 cup granulated sugar
Adjust based on the sweetness of your apples; if they’re extra sweet, try ¾ cup instead for a balanced filling!1 teaspoon apple pie spice
You can buy this pre-made or easily mix cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice at home!2 tablespoons flour
This helps thicken the juices while baking so your pie doesn’t get too runny!2 tablespoons butter
Dot it on top of the apple filling for added richness. Because butter makes everything better, right?1 tablespoon lemon juice
This brightens the flavors and keeps your apples from browning before baking.1 package pie crusts (2 crusts)
Feel free to use store-bought or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!1 egg (for egg wash)
Gives your crust a beautiful golden finish that’ll make you say “wow!”
Full recipe card is below.
How to Make It
1. Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is super important for that lovely golden crust!
2. Prep the filling
In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, apple pie spice, flour, and lemon juice. Mix well until the apples are all coated. Ah, the sweet smell of apples and spices already wafting through your kitchen!
3. Prepare the pie crust
Place one pie crust into a pie pan. You should feel the dough against your fingertips; it should be firm but pliable. Fill it with the apple mixture, and don’t forget to dot those soft apples with bits of butter.
4. Cover it up
Carefully cover the pie with the second crust, sealing the edges with your fingers or a fork. Cut slits in the top crust for steam to escape. If you’d like, you can make a cute design or simply do a few classic slits!
5. Brush with egg wash
Brush the top with a beaten egg. This gives your crust that beautiful shiny finish and makes it irresistible!
6. Bake
Pop your pie into the oven for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C). Then, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for another 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden and flaky. Your kitchen is about to smell like a dream!
7. Cool before serving
Let it cool for a bit before slicing it up. It may be tough to resist that first piece, but trust me—it’s worth the wait!
Pro Tips for Success
- Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the crust for a flakier texture.
- Let the pie cool slightly after baking to allow juices to settle for easier slicing.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat!
Flavor Variations
- Swap out the apple pie spice for some fresh ginger or cardamom for a unique twist!
- Add in dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet surprise.
- Try using pears alongside apples for a seasonal change!
Serving Suggestions
Serve your warm apple pie on a beautiful dessert plate, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream melting into it—yum! A warm cup of cider or spiced tea pairs perfectly, making every bite feel like a cozy gathering around the fireplace.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can prep the apple filling a day in advance and just store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the pie. It keeps well in an airtight container for up to three days. If baking it ahead of time, cover tightly to keep the crust from getting soggy!
Leftovers
Already have leftovers? Try crumbling some pie crust and layering it with the apple filling in a parfait glass with yogurt for a delightful breakfast! You can also serve it as an indulgent topping for pancakes!
Freezing
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked pie! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, bake it straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat your pie in the oven. Simply preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for 10-15 minutes. If you’re in a rush, a microwave works in a pinch—just don’t forget to cover it with a microwave-safe plate to keep it moist!
FAQs
Can I make this pie without a top crust?
Absolutely! You can make a delicious Dutch apple pie by topping it with a crumb topping instead!
Can I use frozen apples?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and drain them well before use to avoid a watery filling.
What can I use instead of apple pie spice?
You can use a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of cloves for a lovely flavor.
How can I tell when my pie is done?
The apples should be tender, and the crust should be a golden brown. You can also check for bubbling through the slits!
Final Thoughts
There you have it—a homemade apple pie that’s sure to warm your heart and home! I hope you enjoy every step of the process, just as I did with my grandmother. So gather your family, grab a slice, and bask in the happiness that comes from creating something delicious. Keep vibing and baking, friends—I can’t wait to hear about your pie adventures! Happy baking from your friend, Chef Emily! 🍏🥧
Homemade Apple Pie
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, apple pie spice, flour, and lemon juice. Mix well.
- Place one pie crust into a pie pan. Fill it with the apple mixture and dot with butter.
- Cover the pie with the second crust, sealing the edges and cutting slits for steam to escape. Optionally, create a design.
- Brush the top with a beaten egg.
- Bake the pie in the oven for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C), then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for another 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden.
- Let it cool before slicing.