Classic Apple Pie Recipe

Savor the taste of homemade goodness with this Classic Apple Pie recipe, featuring a flaky crust and a sweet, cinnamon-spiced filling made from fresh apples. Perfectly baked until golden brown, this dessert captures the essence of comfort food and is a delightful centerpiece for any gathering. Enjoy a slice warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.

Created by

Harriet Collins

Last updated on 2025-11-25T15:59:23.984Z

This classic apple pie recipe has been cherished in our family for generations. The aroma of baked apples and spices fills the house, creating an inviting atmosphere that brings everyone together.

The Joy of Baking

Baking a classic apple pie is not just about the delicious end result; it's an experience that brings joy and warmth to your home. The aroma of fresh apples mingling with spices fills the air, creating a comforting ambiance that welcomes family and friends. Each step in the process offers a moment to connect with the ingredients and the tradition of pie-making, making it a fulfilling activity for bakers of all skill levels.

Whether you're preparing for a holiday gathering or simply indulging in a quiet afternoon, the act of rolling out the dough and layering the apples is therapeutic. This classic recipe invites you to slow down, savor each moment, and enjoy the satisfying task of creating something truly special from scratch.

Choosing the Right Apples

Selecting the right type of apples is crucial to achieving the perfect flavor and consistency in your pie. Varieties such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn are excellent choices, as they balance sweetness and tartness beautifully. When mixed together, these apples provide a complex taste that elevates your pie, ensuring every bite is an explosion of flavor.

It’s important to choose fresh, firm apples since they hold their shape better during baking. Avoid overripe fruits, as they can turn mushy and affect the overall texture of your pie. Taking the time to select high-quality apples will undoubtedly enhance your classic apple pie experience, making it a memorable treat for everyone.

Serving Suggestions

Serving your classic apple pie warm from the oven is a treat that no one can resist! For an elevated experience, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. The contrast of the warm pie and the cold, creamy topping creates a perfect harmony of textures and temperatures that delights the palate.

Another delightful option is to sprinkle some caramel sauce over your slice of pie. This additional layer of sweetness can transform the already indulgent dessert into a luxurious treat. You can also garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a sprig of mint for a touch of elegance that will impress your guests.

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust

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

For the Filling

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

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly to ensure a delicious flavor in your pie.

Instructions

Make the Pie Crust

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

Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Let it sit for 10 minutes.

Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one half of the chilled dough and place it in a pie plate. Fill with the apple mixture. Roll out the second half of the dough and place it over the filling. Seal and flute the edges, then cut slits in the top crust for steam to escape.

Bake the Pie

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 30 to 35 minutes until the apples are soft and the crust is golden. Let cool before serving.

Serve warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top!

Storing Leftover Pie

If you happen to have any leftovers after enjoying your classic apple pie, storing it correctly is essential for maintaining its flavor and texture. Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This will help prevent it from drying out and preserve its delicious filling.

For longer storage, you can refrigerate the pie, where it will keep fresh for up to a week. If you want to save it for an extended period, consider freezing individual slices or the whole pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic, then place it in an airtight container. Simply thaw the pie in the fridge when you're ready to indulge again!

Customizing Your Pie

One of the great things about this classic apple pie recipe is its versatility. You can customize the filling by adding different spices such as ginger or allspice for a unique twist. Incorporating dried fruits like raisins or cranberries can add an intriguing depth to the pie, combining both sweet and tart flavors.

If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of bourbon or vanilla extract to the apple filling for an extra layer of flavor. Each tweak to the recipe allows you to create a signature pie that reflects your personal taste and culinary style, making it a perfect canvas for creativity.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?

It's best to use fresh apples, but if using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and drained to avoid a watery filling.

→ How do I store leftover apple pie?

Store leftovers in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.