easy apple pie recipe
The Best easy apple pie recipe
What I really appreciate about this recipe is how it balances indulgence with some actual good-for-you ingredients. Apples are packed with fiber and vitamins, and if you use a lighter touch with the sugar, you can keep it on the healthier side without sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s versatile—serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a treat, or enjoy a small slice with coffee in the morning. It’s the kind of dessert that doesn’t feel guilty, which is exactly why it’s a staple in our house.
Easy Homemade Apple Pie
A classic and comforting apple pie with a flaky crust and sweet, spiced apple filling. Perfect for any occasion and easy to make with simple ingredients.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 6-8 tbsp ice water
- 6-7 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and thinly sliced
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp coarse sugar (optional)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). -
2
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar for the crust. Add the chilled cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. -
3
Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough just comes together. Do not overwork the dough. -
4
Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape into discs, and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. -
5
In another bowl, combine sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Toss until the apples are evenly coated. -
6
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the dough to the pie dish, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides. -
7
Pour the apple filling into the crust, mounding it slightly in the center. -
8
Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Trim and crimp the edges to seal. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. -
9
Whisk the egg and brush it over the top crust. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired. -
10
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the crust begins to brown too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil. -
11
Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before serving to let the filling set.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Pastry cutter or fork
- Rolling pin
- 9-inch pie dish
- Knife
- Oven
- Measuring cups and spoons
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Easy Homemade Apple Pie Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Pie
1. Can I use store-bought pie crust for this easy apple pie recipe?
Yes! Store-bought pie crust works perfectly for this recipe and saves time. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for pre-baking (if needed) or use it as directed in the recipe. For best results, let the crust sit at room temperature for a few minutes before rolling it out.
2. What type of apples should I use for the best apple pie?
A mix of sweet and tart apples works best. Popular choices include Granny Smith (tart), Honeycrisp (sweet), and Jonagold (balanced). Avoid overly soft apples like Red Delicious, as they can turn mushy when baked.
3. How do I prevent my apple pie from having a soggy bottom?
To avoid a soggy crust, pre-bake the bottom crust for 8–10 minutes before adding the filling. You can also sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs, crushed cookies, or ground nuts on the crust before adding the apples to absorb excess moisture.
4. Can I make this apple pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the pie a day in advance and refrigerate it (unbaked). When ready to bake, add 10–15 minutes to the baking time since it will start cold. Alternatively, bake the pie fully, let it cool, and reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes before serving.
5. How do I know when the apple pie is done baking?
The pie is done when the crust is golden brown, the filling is bubbling (especially through the vents in the top crust), and the apples feel tender when pierced with a knife. If the crust browns too quickly, tent the pie with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
