Apple Pies – recipesshubb

Classic Apple Pies

Few desserts are as timeless and comforting as a homemade apple pie. With its flaky, buttery crust and warm, cinnamon-spiced apple filling, apple pie is a symbol of tradition, family gatherings, and cozy moments shared around the table. Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed cold the next day, this classic dessert never goes out of style.

This recipe delivers everything you want in an apple pie: tender apples that hold their shape, a perfectly balanced sweet-tart filling, and a golden crust that’s crisp on the outside and tender within. It’s approachable for beginners yet satisfying for experienced bakers.

Why This Apple Pie Recipe Works

Uses the best apples for flavor and texture
Balanced sweetness with warm spices
Foolproof filling that isn’t runny
Classic results with simple ingredients

Ingredients (One 9-Inch Pie)

For the Pie Crust

2½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 cup (225 g) cold unsalted butter, cubed
6–8 tablespoons ice water

(You may also use a store-bought double pie crust for convenience.)

For the Apple Filling

6–7 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled and sliced
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or cornstarch
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Finishing

1 egg, beaten (egg wash)
1 tablespoon sugar (optional, for sprinkling)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Pie Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter pieces.

Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

2. Make the Apple Filling

In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour (or cornstarch), cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla. Toss until the apples are evenly coated. Set aside while rolling out the dough.

3. Roll Out the Crust

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Roll out one dough disc on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, gently pressing it into the bottom and sides.

Pour the apple filling into the crust, spreading evenly.

Roll out the second dough disc and place it over the filling. Trim excess dough and crimp the edges. Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

4. Egg Wash and Bake

Brush the top crust with beaten egg and sprinkle lightly with sugar if desired.

Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch drips. Bake for:

20 minutes at 400°F (200°C)
Then reduce heat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 35–45 minutes, until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.

If the edges brown too quickly, cover them loosely with foil.

Cooling and Serving

Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This allows the filling to set properly.

Serve apple pie:

Warm with vanilla ice cream
With whipped cream or caramel sauce
Plain with coffee or tea

Tips for the Best Apple Pie

Use firm apples: They hold their shape while baking.
Mix apple varieties: Adds depth of flavor.
Chill the dough: Cold dough ensures a flaky crust.
Let it cool: Prevents a runny filling.

Variations

Dutch Apple Pie: Top with a buttery crumb topping instead of crust.
Caramel Apple Pie: Drizzle caramel sauce over the filling before baking.
Spiced Apple Pie: Add cloves or allspice for warmth.
Mini Apple Pies: Use the same recipe to make individual pies.

Storage

Room temperature: Up to 2 days, covered
Refrigerator: Up to 5 days
Freezer: Baked pie freezes well for up to 3 months

Reheat slices in the oven for best texture.

Final Thoughts

Apple pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a tradition passed down through generations. With its buttery crust, fragrant spices, and tender apples, this classic apple pie recipe delivers homemade comfort in every bite. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a family dinner, or simply because you’re craving something cozy, this apple pie is always the right choice.