scratch apple pie recipe

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scratch apple pie recipe
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The Best scratch apple pie recipe

I’ve been making this scratch apple pie recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a classic American dessert that never fails to impress, and I love that it’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients. My family and kids adore it, and we always look forward to having a slice (or two!)

after dinner. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make, and the end result is a delicious, flaky crust filled with tender apples. I’ve tried many different apple pie recipes over the years, but this one remains my go-to for its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.

The history of apple pie dates back to ancient times, when apples were first cultivated in Europe. The modern version of the pie as we know it today originated in the United States, where it became a beloved tradition at family gatherings and holidays. I love that this pie is a nod to those roots, using traditional techniques like making the dough from scratch and filling it with fresh apples.

One of the things I appreciate most about this recipe is how versatile it is. We enjoy it as a dessert after dinner, but it’s also perfect for potlucks, picnics, or any other gathering where you need a crowd-pleasing dish. And let’s not forget about the health benefits – apples are packed with fiber and antioxidants, while the crust made from flour and butter provides sustained energy.

Plus, this recipe is easy to customize with your favorite spices or toppings. To me, there’s nothing quite like biting into a warm slice of apple pie straight from the oven. The combination of textures – crunchy crust giving way to soft, tender apples – is truly magical.

And when you take a bite, the sweetness of the apples balances perfectly with the savory flavor of the crust.

Classic Scratch Apple Pie

Classic Scratch Apple Pie

4.9 from 1524 votes

A comforting classic, this scratch apple pie features a flaky crust and a sweet, spiced apple filling. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect dessert.

Prep Time30 mins
Cook Time60 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time90 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pie Dough

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt
1 tsp granulated sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
1/4 to 1/2 cup ice-cold water

For the Apple Filling

6-7 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Jonagold)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp ground allspice
1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Egg Wash

1 large egg
1 tbsp milk

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with a few pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.
3Gradually add ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough just comes together.
4Divide the dough in half, shape into disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
5On a lightly floured surface, roll out one of the chilled dough disks into a 12-inch circle, about 1/8-inch thick.
6Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides.
7Trim the overhang to 1/2 inch.
8Refrigerate the lined pie dish while you prepare the filling.
9In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and lemon juice.
10Toss to coat the apples evenly.
11Spoon the apple mixture into the chilled pie crust, mounding slightly in the center.
12Roll out the second dough disk as before and place it over the filling.
13Trim the overhang to 1/2 inch, then crimp the edges to seal.
14Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
15In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to make an egg wash.
16Brush the egg wash over the top crust, being careful not to let it drip down the sides.
17Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
18Place the pie dish on a baking sheet and bake in a preheated 425°F (220°C) oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
19If the edges of the crust begin to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie crust shield.
20Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving.
21This allows the filling to set and makes it easier to slice.
22Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Pastry cutter or fork
Pie dish
Rolling pin
Knife
Cutting board
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18g💛Saturated Fat: 11g❤️Cholesterol: 55mg🧂Sodium: 250mg🌾Total Carbs: 68g🥦Dietary Fiber: 4g🍬Sugars: 35g🥩Protein: 4g

📝Notes

Tips: For a prettier crust, freeze the rolled-out dough for 10-15 minutes before baking. This helps to create a flakier crust.

Watch Video Of How Classic Scratch Apple Pie Works

This scratch apple pie recipe is a timeless classic that never fails to impress. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying a slice on a quiet evening at home, it’s a crowd-pleaser.

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to five days, and reheat in the oven for a warm, comforting treat. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round, making it a perfect addition to your recipe collection.

It’s a great way to use fresh, seasonal apples and enjoy a delicious, comforting dessert that the whole family will love. This recipe is a perfect way to bring everyone together and create lasting memories.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Scratch Apple Pie

Q: What type of apples should I use for this recipe?

For this scratch apple pie recipe, I recommend using a mix of Granny Smith and other sweet apples like Gala or Fuji. The tartness of Granny Smith adds depth to the filling without overpowering it.

Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes! This pie can be made ahead of time and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply assemble the pie as instructed and store it in an airtight container until you’re ready to bake.

Q: What if I don’t have any pastry dough on hand?

No problem! You can easily make your own pastry dough from scratch using flour, butter or lard, and ice-cold water. Alternatively, you can use store-bought dough if you prefer.

Q: How do I prevent my crust from becoming too brown during baking?

To prevent over-browning, cover your pie with foil during the last 30 minutes of baking. This will help keep your crust looking golden rather than burnt.

Q: Can I use frozen apples instead of fresh ones?

Frozen apples will work in this recipe just fine! Just thaw them according to package instructions before using.

Q: What if my filling becomes too runny during baking?

If your filling starts to leak out during baking (which can happen due to excess moisture), try adding more cornstarch or flour to thicken it up quickly.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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