There’s nothing quite like a homemade apple pie fresh out of the oven. The aroma of baking apples mixed with cinnamon is a comforting invitation to savor every bite. Whether you’re preparing this sweet treat for a special occasion or simply enjoying a slice with your afternoon tea, our homemade apple pie recipe will surely win over your taste buds and your guests!
Ingredients
To create this delicious homemade apple pie, you’ll need:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, diced and chilled
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 6–8 tablespoons ice water
- 6–7 cups thinly sliced baking apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon milk
Equipments
- Large mixing bowl
- Rolling pin
- Pie pan 9-inch
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
- Food processor (optional)
How to Make Homemade Apple Pie – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour and salt. Add the cold, diced butter and use a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. Form the dough into a ball, divide it in half, and wrap each half in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the dough to rest and cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
While the dough is resting, peel, core, and thinly slice your chosen apples. In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Mix well, ensuring each slice is coated evenly with the sugar and spice mixture. Allow this to macerate while you prepare the crust. This process will help the apples release their juices, creating a moist filling.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Lightly flour your working surface and rolling pin. Take one portion of the chilled dough and roll it out into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie pan, gently pressing to fit. Trim the excess dough hanging over the edges but leave about an inch to fold under for crimping. Reserve the trimmed dough for step 5.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Fill the prepared crust with the apple mixture, mounding slightly in the center. Roll out the second dough portion into an equally sized circle and place it over the filled pie. Trim and crimp the edges to seal the pie crusts together. Cut several small slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
Step 5: Add the Finishing Touch
Beat together one egg yolk and milk to create an egg wash. Brush this wash over the top crust using a pastry brush. This step gives your pie a golden, flaky appearance once baked. If desired, use leftover dough to create decorative accents such as leaves or braid patterns to add charm to your pie before baking.
Step 6: Bake the Pie
Place the assembled pie on a baking sheet to catch any juices that might spill over. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C). Then, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 40–45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly.
How to Serve Homemade Apple Pie
Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving; this helps the filling set properly when slicing. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance its flavor.
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
For an extra flaky crust, keep your ingredients as cold as possible. Mix the dough quickly and avoid over-handling to prevent gluten from forming. Also, using a mixture of tart and sweet apples gives the best flavor balance.
Packed with Protein: The High Protein Apple Pie Version
For those looking to add extra nutrition to their dessert, this high-protein version of homemade apple pie includes whey protein powder into the crust mix for a protein boost. Simply replace 1/4 cup of the all-purpose flour with protein powder to enjoy the added benefits without sacrificing taste or texture.
This approach not only enhances the nutritional profile but also supports your dietary requirements, making it a versatile dish suitable for those seeking to maintain a high-protein diet.
Simplify with Our Low-Carb Apple Pie Recipe
If you’re watching your carb intake, consider a low-carb version of this classic. Swap the regular flour with almond flour or coconut flour and use a low-sugar sweetener like erythritol. Opt for tart apples as they naturally contain less sugar, giving you the delightful pie taste without guilt.
This low-carb version offers the same indulgence while aligning with keto or low-carb lifestyles seamlessly, making it perfect for health-conscious pie enthusiasts.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover apple pie in the refrigerator wrapped securely with foil or plastic wrap; it can be enjoyed within three days. To freeze, wrap it in heavy-duty aluminum foil or freezer wrap, and it will remain tasty for up to two months. Thaw overnight and reheat before serving.
FAQs
Can I use a pre-made crust for this recipe?
Yes, a pre-made crust can save time, but homemade will always taste better and fresher.
Which apples are best for pie?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are excellent choices because they hold their shape well.
How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?
Blind baking or using a pie shield can help prevent a soggy crust from forming.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, bake it a day in advance and keep it covered at room temperature.
How to tell when the pie is done?
The pie is done when its crust is golden-brown and the filling is bubbling through the slits or edges.
Final Thoughts: Share the Joy of Homemade Apple Pie
Creating a homemade apple pie is not only rewarding but also a delicious way to bring people together. Whether you’re an expert or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to be approachable and fun. We hope you’ll share this delightful dessert with your loved ones and spread the indulgence. Feel free to comment below with your experience or any twists you added!
Homemade Apple Pie
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- all-purpose flour
- unsalted butter
- granulated sugar
- brown sugar
- salt
- ice water
- baking apples
- ground cinnamon
- ground nutmeg
- lemon juice
- egg yolk
- milk
Instructions
Steps
- Combine flour and salt in a large bowl, then add chilled butter and blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water while mixing until the dough forms. Divide, wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Peel and slice apples, then toss with sugars, spices, and lemon juice in a large mixing bowl. Allow to sit and marinate while the dough chills.
- Roll out one portion of chilled dough on a floured surface to form a 12-inch circle, then line the pie pan with it, trimming excess.
- Preheat the oven to 425°F. Fill crust with apple mixture. Roll out second dough to cover the pie. Trim, crimp edges, and cut vents in the top crust.
- Mix egg yolk and milk in a small bowl. Brush over the pie crust for a glossy finish. Add any pie crust decorations if desired.
- Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes, then lower to 350°F and bake for 40-45 minutes until crust is golden and filling bubbles.