Apple Pie - Fraîche Living

Name: Apple Pie - Fraîche Living
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 6 to 8 tbsp ice water; 6 to 8 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced; 3/4 cup sugar; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp nutmeg; 2 tbsp lemon juice

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Savor the classic taste of homemade Apple Pie with this delightful recipe. Featuring a flaky crust and a sweet, spiced apple filling, this pie is the perfect centerpiece for your Thanksgiving feast. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2025-11-25T15:59:21.384Z

This Apple Pie recipe is inspired by traditional methods, highlighting the rich flavors of autumn.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Classic comfort dessert
Perfect for gatherings
Versatile with toppings

      

The Art of Pie Making

Making an apple pie is an art that combines both technique and passion. The perfect pie begins with a flaky crust, which is crucial for a satisfying bite. Understanding the relationship between cold ingredients and minimal handling is key to achieving that desired flakiness. It's essential to work quickly and efficiently to keep the butter cold while mixing, as this will create layers in the crust during baking, resulting in a delightful texture.

The filling is where the magic happens. Choosing the right apples can make or break your pie. A combination of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, brings a balanced flavor. Additionally, the spice blend of cinnamon and nutmeg alongside a hint of lemon juice elevates the whole experience, giving the aroma of freshly baked pie that will have everyone gathering in the kitchen.

Perfect Pairings

While apple pie is undoubtedly delicious on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the dessert experience. A scoop of vanilla ice cream is a classic choice, creating a delightful contrast between warm pie and cold creaminess. Whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce can add an extra touch of decadence to each slice, delighting your guests.

For those looking for a more rustic presentation, serve the pie with a side of spiced apple cider or a selection of seasonal fruits. This not only enhances the flavors of the pie but also adds a festive touch to your dining table, making it perfect for seasonal gatherings and holiday celebrations.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storing leftover apple pie correctly is important to maintain its flavor and texture. If you’ve baked a large pie, it can be kept at room temperature for up to two days. Make sure to cover it with aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. For longer storage, you can freeze slices or the whole pie, ensuring they are wrapped securely to avoid freezer burn.

When you're ready to enjoy your pie again, reheating it properly can revive its fresh-baked appeal. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the slice on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This method warms the pie evenly and crisps the crust. For an even more indulgent treat, serve it warm with that scoop of ice cream you saved from the initial serving!

Ingredients

For the crust

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
6 to 8 tbsp ice water

For the filling

6 to 8 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
3/4 cup sugar
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
2 tbsp lemon juice

Mix well to combine all ingredients before assembling the pie.

Instructions

Make the crust

In a bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until dough comes together. Divide into two balls, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.

Prepare the filling

In another bowl, combine sliced apples with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss to coat.

Assemble the pie

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one dough ball and fit it into a pie dish. Fill with apple mixture and cover with the second rolled-out dough. Cut slits for steam. Trim and crimp the edges.

Bake the pie

Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35-45 minutes until apples are tender and crust is golden brown. Let cool before serving.

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.

Tips for Customization

One of the best features of apple pie is its versatility. You can customize the filling to suit your tastes. Consider adding other fruits like pears or cranberries for a unique twist, or try incorporating nuts for added texture. Just remember to balance the sweetness with a touch of tartness to keep the flavors bright and appealing.

Another customization option is experimenting with spices. While cinnamon and nutmeg are traditional, try adding ginger or allspice for a different flavor profile. Mix and match these ingredients based on what your family enjoys, allowing you to create a version of apple pie that is uniquely yours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many home bakers wonder if they can use pre-made pie crust instead of homemade. While homemade crust often yields the best results, using store-bought crust can save time and still result in a tasty pie. Just make sure to follow the instructions on the packaging for the best outcome.

If you're concerned about the pie being too watery after baking, a quick fix is to sprinkle a bit of cornstarch over the apple filling before assembling the pie. This helps absorb excess moisture during baking, ensuring your pie maintains its shape and doesn't become soggy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Yes, the crust can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

→ How do I store leftover apple pie?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.