Classic Apple Pie
(Flaky Crust, Tender Apples, and Cozy Cinnamon Flavor)
Nothing says home quite like a classic apple pie. With its golden, flaky crust and warm, spiced apple filling, this timeless dessert has been bringing comfort to tables for generations. Whether served at holidays, family gatherings, or a simple weekend dinner, apple pie is always a welcome sight.
This recipe focuses on balance—tender apples that hold their shape, just the right amount of sweetness, and a crust that’s buttery, crisp, and irresistibly flaky. It’s the kind of apple pie you make once and return to year after year.
Why You’ll Love This Apple Pie
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Flaky, buttery homemade crust
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Perfectly spiced apple filling
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Not too sweet, not too tart
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Classic look and flavor
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Great for make-ahead baking
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Chill Time: 1 hour
Bake Time: 50–60 minutes
Total Time: About 2½ hours
Oven Temperature: 425°F (220°C), then 375°F (190°C)
Yield: 1 (9-inch) pie
Difficulty Level: Intermediate
Ingredients
Pie Crust (Double Crust)
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2½ cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon salt
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1 tablespoon sugar
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1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cubed
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6–8 tablespoons ice water
(You may also use a prepared double pie crust.)
Apple Filling
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6–7 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled and sliced
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¾ cup granulated sugar
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¼ cup brown sugar
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2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or cornstarch
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Egg Wash
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1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon milk
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Coarse sugar for sprinkling (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Pie Dough
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Gradually add ice water, mixing just until the dough comes together. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla until evenly coated. Set aside.
Step 3: Roll Out the Crust
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Roll out one dough disc and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish, leaving overhang. Spoon the apple filling into the crust, mounding slightly in the center.
Roll out the second disc and place it over the filling. Trim excess dough, fold edges under, and crimp.
Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
Step 4: Finish the Pie
Brush the top crust with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
Step 5: Bake
Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes, then reduce oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 30–40 minutes, until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil.
Step 6: Cool
Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This allows the filling to set properly.
Tips for the Best Apple Pie
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Use a mix of apples for the best texture and flavor.
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Slice apples evenly for uniform cooking.
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Chill the dough well for a flaky crust.
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Vent the top crust to release steam.
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Let it cool completely before slicing.
Variations
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Dutch Apple Pie: Add a buttery crumb topping.
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Caramel Apple Pie: Drizzle caramel sauce over the filling.
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Spiced Apple Pie: Add cloves or allspice.
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Lattice Crust: Create a woven top for a classic look.
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Mini Apple Pies: Bake individual portions.
Storage
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Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 2 days.
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Refrigerator: Keeps for up to 4 days.
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Freezer: Freeze baked or unbaked pie for up to 3 months.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve warm with vanilla ice cream
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Pair with whipped cream or custard
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Enjoy with coffee or hot tea
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Perfect for holidays and celebrations
Final Thoughts
Classic Apple Pie is more than just dessert—it’s tradition, comfort, and nostalgia baked into every slice. With its flaky crust and warmly spiced filling, this pie has a way of bringing people together and making moments feel special.