This classic apple pie is a beloved dessert featuring tender, spiced apples encased in a flaky crust. It’s perfect for any occasion, especially during the fall season.
The recipe is straightforward and can be made with fresh or pre-made pie crusts. You can customize the filling with different spices or add nuts for extra texture.
The Allure of Freshly Baked Apple Pie
There’s something incredibly inviting about the aroma of a freshly baked apple pie wafting through the kitchen. The combination of warm spices and sweet apples creates a comforting atmosphere that beckons family and friends to gather around.
As the pie cools on a rustic wooden table, its golden-brown crust glistens, hinting at the deliciousness within. The steam rising from the filling signals that this dessert is not just a feast for the eyes, but also a delightful treat for the palate.
Choosing the Right Apples
The choice of apples is essential for a perfect pie. Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp offer a balance of sweetness and tartness that enhances the overall flavor. These apples hold their shape well during baking, ensuring a satisfying texture in every slice.
When preparing the filling, a simple mix of sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg complements the apples beautifully. The addition of lemon juice brightens the flavors, making each bite refreshing and vibrant.
Creating the Perfect Crust
A flaky, buttery crust is the foundation of any great apple pie. Whether opting for a homemade crust or a store-bought version, the key is to handle the dough gently to maintain its tenderness.
Rolling out the crust to the right thickness ensures it will bake evenly, providing a delightful contrast to the juicy apple filling. Sealing the edges properly and creating slits for steam to escape are crucial steps that contribute to the pie’s overall success.
The Baking Process
Once assembled, the pie is ready for the oven. Starting at a high temperature helps to set the crust, while lowering the heat allows the apples to cook through without burning the top.
As the pie bakes, the kitchen fills with a mouthwatering scent that can make anyone’s stomach growl. The golden crust and bubbling filling are a sight to behold, promising a delicious experience ahead.
Serving Suggestions
After allowing the pie to cool, it’s time to slice into this masterpiece. Each piece reveals the tender, spiced apple filling, inviting you to take a bite.
For an extra touch of indulgence, serve a slice alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture perfectly complements the warm pie, creating a delightful contrast that elevates the dessert to new heights.
Storing and Enjoying Leftovers
If there are any leftovers, storing them properly is key to maintaining freshness. Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It can be enjoyed cold or reheated for a warm treat.
Apple pie is a classic dessert that brings joy to any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or simply a cozy night in, this pie is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Easy Homemade Apple Pie Recipe
This apple pie features a delicious filling made from sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, all baked until bubbly and golden. The recipe takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish and serves 8 people.
Ingredients
- 6 to 8 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 package (14 oz) refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade crust)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling on top)
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Toss to coat the apples evenly.
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Assemble the Pie: Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Fill with the apple mixture and dot with butter. Cover with the second pie crust, sealing the edges and cutting slits in the top for steam to escape.
- Apply Egg Wash: Brush the top crust with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar for a golden finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 35-45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with vanilla ice cream.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 8 slices
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 15g
- Protein: 2g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
