Best Homemade Apple Pie Recipe

Learn how to make the Best Homemade Apple Pie with a flaky crust & spiced apple filling. Easy step-by-step guide + expert tips!

Introduction

Nothing beats the warm, inviting aroma of a freshly baked Old Fashioned Apple Pie filling your home. This Classic Apple Pie Recipe features a flaky, buttery crust and a deliciously spiced apple filling. Whether you're making it for a special occasion or a simple family dessert, this Perfect Apple Pie is sure to impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Simple and easy to follow, even for beginners.
A perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
A golden, flaky crust with a juicy Apple Pie Filling.
Uses fresh, real ingredients for an authentic homemade taste.

Best Apples for Apple Pie

Selecting the right apples is key to making the Best Apple Pie. Some top choices include:

Honeycrisp – Naturally sweet with a firm texture.
Granny Smith – Tart and crisp, ideal for balancing flavors.
Jonagold – A great mix of sweet and tart.
Braeburn – Mildly sweet and holds its shape well.
Cortland – Slightly tart and softens beautifully when baked.

Using a mix of apples can create a more complex and flavorful Homemade Apple Pie.

Essential Ingredients

To make a Homemade Apple Pie, gather the following ingredients:

6 cups apples, peeled, cored, and sliced.
¾ cup sugar for sweetness.
2 tbsp all-purpose flour to thicken the filling.
¾ tsp ground cinnamon for warmth.
¼ tsp salt to enhance flavors.
⅛ tsp ground nutmeg for depth.
1 tbsp lemon juice to balance sweetness and prevent browning.
1 pastry for a double pie crust, store-bought or homemade.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious and perfectly baked apple pie. From preparing the dough to baking, this guide ensures a foolproof pie every time.

1. Preparing the Pie Dough

Roll out the bottom and top crusts.
Line a 9-inch pie dish with the bottom crust and set aside.

2. Making the Apple Filling

In a large bowl, combine apple slices, sugar, flour, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
Mix well until apples are evenly coated.

3. Assembling the Pie

Pour the apple mixture into the crust-lined pie plate.
Place the second pie crust on top and crimp the edges to seal.
Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

4. Baking Instructions

Preheat oven to 425°F and bake for 15 minutes.
Reduce temperature to 375°F and bake for another 30 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
Check the internal temperature of the apple pie, which should reach 195°F for perfect doneness.
Let the pie cool before serving.

Egg Wash & Finishing Touches

Brushing the pie crust with an egg wash before baking enhances its texture and appearance, giving it a beautifully golden and glossy finish. It also helps the crust develop a slight crispness and can act as a glue for sugar toppings.

For a beautiful golden crust, brush the top with:

Egg white + water for a lightly browned, shiny finish.
Egg yolk + water for a deep golden crust.
Water only for a crisp, brown texture.
A sprinkle of sugar for extra crunch and sparkle.

Expert Tips for the Best Apple Pie

Prevent a soggy bottom crust by slightly pre-baking it before adding the filling.
Slice apples evenly to ensure they bake at the same rate.
Cover the crust edges with foil after 15-20 minutes to prevent over-browning.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Top with homemade whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Drizzle with caramel sauce for a rich flavor boost.
Pair with a cup of spiced cider or freshly brewed coffee for a cozy treat.

Storage & Freezing Tips

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freeze an unbaked pie wrapped in foil for up to 1 month.
Bake frozen pie directly without thawing, adding 15 minutes to the baking time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Yes! A pre-made crust saves time and still delivers delicious results.

2. How do I prevent my apple pie filling from being too runny?
Use the correct amount of flour and allow the pie to cool before slicing.

3. What’s the best way to reheat apple pie?
Warm slices in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.

4. Can I make apple pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble and freeze an unbaked pie for baking later.

5. How do I prevent the pie crust from over-browning?
Cover the edges with foil after 15-20 minutes of baking.

This Easy Apple Pie Recipe is a delicious, foolproof way to enjoy a Best Homemade Apple Pie any time of the year! Happy baking! 🍏🥧

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