Name: Homemade Apple Pie Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 4 h 25 min
Yield: 10
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pie dough; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; ¾ cup sugar; ½ tsp Cinnamon; ¼ tsp nutmeg; ¼ tsp salt; ⅛ tsp allspice; 3 large Granny smith apples; 4 large McIntosh apples; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 egg white; Vanilla ice cream; Whipped cream

There's nothing quite like a classic homemade apple pie to bring warmth and comfort to your kitchen. This delightful dessert, with its flaky crust and spiced apple filling, is perfect for any occasion.

Photos of Homemade Apple Pie Recipe

When gathering the ingredients for this recipe, keep an eye out for granny smith apples and mcintosh apples, which may not always be staples in your kitchen. Additionally, allspice, though not rare, might not be a common household item, so add it to your shopping list.

Ingredients for Homemade Apple Pie Recipe

pie dough: The base of your pie, providing the structure and flaky texture.

all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the filling.

sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tartness of the apples.

cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the filling.

nutmeg: Adds a subtle, earthy spice to the mix.

salt: Enhances the flavors of the filling.

allspice: Adds a hint of extra spice and complexity.

granny smith apples: Provide tartness and hold their shape during baking.

mcintosh apples: Offer sweetness and a softer texture.

lemon juice: Prevents apple slices from browning and adds a touch of acidity.

egg white: Used to brush the top crust for a shiny finish.

vanilla ice cream: A classic topping for serving.

whipped cream: Another delicious topping option.

One reader, Emogene Yang says:

This homemade apple pie recipe is fantastic! The crust is perfectly flaky, and the blend of spices with the apples creates a deliciously warm and comforting flavor. It's a hit at every family gathering. Highly recommend!

Emogene Yang

Techniques Required for Making Homemade Apple Pie

How to roll out pie dough: Roll out the pie dough on a floured workspace into large circles, ensuring the larger one is at least 12 inches in diameter and the smaller one is about 10 inches in diameter.

How to transfer pie dough: Carefully transfer the larger pie dough to the pie plate and press it in gently to line the entire bottom of the pan, with the dough sticking out at least ½-inch above the rim.

How to whisk dry ingredients: Whisk together the sugar, cinnamon, salt, and allspice in a large bowl until mixed.

How to slice apples: Thinly slice all of the apples.

How to toss apples with lemon juice: Toss the apples with the lemon juice until evenly coated.

How to coat apples with flour mixture: Transfer the apples to the large bowl with the flour mixture and gently toss until all of the apples are fairly evenly coated.

How to assemble pie: Turn the fruit mixture, including the juices, into the chilled pie shell and mound the apples slightly in the center.

How to lay top pie crust: Carefully lay the second (10-inch) pie crust on top of the apples so that it is centered around the bottom crust.

How to trim and seal pie crust: Trim the edges of the top and bottom crust to ½-inch beyond the pie pan lip, tuck the rim of the dough underneath itself so that the folded edge is flush with the pan lip, and flute the edge or press with the tines of a fork to seal the pie crust.

How to cut slits in pie crust: Cut 4 small slits in the top of the dough.

How to brush with egg white and sprinkle sugar: Brush the pie with the egg white and sprinkle evenly with a few pinches of sugar.

How to cover pie crust edges: Cover the edges of the pie crust lightly with aluminum foil or a pie crust shield.

How to bake pie: Bake for 40 minutes, then remove the pie crust shield, and bake for an additional 20 minutes or until the crust is a deep golden brown and the juices just barely start to seep out.

How to cool pie: Transfer the pie to a wire rack and let it cool to room temperature for at least 3 hours before slicing.

How To Make Homemade Apple Pie

This classic homemade apple pie recipe is fail-proof and easy to make! Skip the bakery and enjoy your own simple, yet delicious apple pie at home!

Preparation: 25 minutes

Cooking: 1 hour

Cool Time: 3 hours

Total: 4 hours 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1pie dough,double-crust, refrigerated
2tbspall-purpose flour,plus extra for dusting the workspace
¾cupsugar,plus extra for dusting the top of the crust
½tspcinnamon,ground
¼tspnutmeg,ground
¼tspsalt
⅛tspallspice
3large Granny Smith apples,cored, peeled (about 1.5 lbs)
4large McIntosh apples,cored and peeled (about 2 lbs)
1tbsplemon juice
1egg white,large, lightly beaten
vanilla ice cream,for serving, optional
whipped cream,for serving, optional

Equipments

Food processor

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Prepare a 9-inch pie plate with cooking spray.
Roll out the two pieces of the pie dough on a floured workspace into large circles, until the larger one is at least 12 inches in diameter, and the smaller one is about 10 inches in diameter.
Carefully transfer the larger pie dough to the pie plate and press it in gently to line the entire bottom of the pan, with the dough sticking out at least ½-inch above the rim. Cover gently with plastic wrap and refrigerate.
While the dough is re-cooling, whisk together the sugar, cinnamon, salt, and allspice in a large bowl until mixed. Set aside.
Thinly slice all of the apples. Toss the apples with the lemon juice until evenly coated.
Then transfer the apples to the large bowl with the flour mixture, and gently toss until all of the apples are fairly evenly coated with the flour mixture.
Turn the fruit mixture, including the juices, into the chilled pie shell and mound the apples slightly in the center.
Carefully lay the second (10-inch) pie crust on top of the apples so that it is centered around the bottom crust. Trim the edges of the top and bottom crust to ½-inch beyond the pie pan lip.
Tuck the rim of the dough underneath itself so that the folded edge is flush with the pan lip. Flute the edge or press with the tines of a fork to seal the pie crust. Cut 4 small slits in the top of the dough.
Return pie to the freezer for 10 minutes. Then remove and brush with the egg white, and sprinkle evenly with a few pinches of sugar. Cover the edges of the pie crust lightly with aluminum foil or a pie crust shield.
Bake for 40 minutes, then remove pie crust shield. Bake for an additional 20 minutes, or until the crust is a deep golden brown and the juices just barely start to seep out.
Transfer pie to a wire rack and let cool to room temperature for at least 3 hours before slicing.

Nutrition

Calories: 160.54kcal
Fat: 1.06g
Saturated Fat: 0.23g
Monounsaturated Fat: 0.33g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.25g
Carbohydrates: 38.46g
Fiber: 4.13g
Sugar: 30.42g
Protein: 1.11g
Sodium: 75.85mg
Calcium: 11.02mg
Potassium: 181.80mg
Iron: 0.36mg
Vitamin A: 5.85µg
Vitamin C: 4.79mg

Technique Tip for Achieving the Perfect Apple Pie Crust

When slicing the apples, aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking. Using a mandoline slicer can help achieve consistent slices, which will result in a more evenly baked pie. Additionally, chilling the pie dough before baking helps maintain its structure and prevents it from shrinking.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Homemade Apple Pie

Use pre-made pie dough: Save time by using store-bought pie dough instead of making it from scratch.

Slice apples with a mandoline: Use a mandoline slicer to quickly and uniformly slice the apples.

Mix dry ingredients in advance: Combine the sugar, cinnamon, salt, and allspice ahead of time and store in an airtight container.

Pre-chill the pie plate: Keep the pie plate in the fridge while preparing other ingredients to save chilling time.

Use lemon juice from a bottle: Opt for bottled lemon juice instead of squeezing fresh lemons.

Substitute Ingredients For Homemade Apple Pie Recipe

pie dough - Substitute with graham cracker crust: Provides a different texture and flavor, adding a sweet and crunchy element to the pie.
all-purpose flour - Substitute with cornstarch: Acts as a thickening agent and can provide a smoother texture to the filling.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Adds a natural sweetness and a hint of floral flavor, while also being a bit healthier.
cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Contains cinnamon along with other spices like ginger and cloves, adding a more complex flavor.
nutmeg - Substitute with mace: Mace is the outer covering of nutmeg and has a similar but slightly milder flavor.
salt - Substitute with sea salt: Provides a more nuanced flavor and can enhance the overall taste of the pie.
allspice - Substitute with cloves: Cloves have a similar warm, spicy flavor and can be used in smaller amounts to achieve a similar effect.
granny smith apples - Substitute with honeycrisp apples: Honeycrisp apples are also tart and firm, making them a good substitute for baking.
mcintosh apples - Substitute with fuji apples: Fuji apples are sweet and hold their shape well when baked, similar to McIntosh apples.
lemon juice - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Adds acidity and a slight apple flavor, which complements the pie filling.
egg white - Substitute with milk: Can be used to brush the crust for a similar browning effect.
vanilla ice cream - Substitute with cinnamon ice cream: Adds a complementary spice flavor that pairs well with apple pie.
whipped cream - Substitute with creme fraiche: Offers a tangy, rich flavor that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the pie.

Presenting Your Delicious Homemade Apple Pie

Use a pristine white plate: Select a large, pristine white plate to make the colors of the apple pie and accompaniments pop.
Slice the pie precisely: Cut the apple pie into even, clean slices using a sharp knife. Ensure each slice has a perfect balance of crust and apple filling.
Place the pie slice elegantly: Position a single slice of apple pie slightly off-center on the plate, allowing space for garnishes.
Add a quenelle of vanilla ice cream: Use a hot spoon to form a perfect quenelle of vanilla ice cream and place it next to the pie slice.
Pipe a dollop of whipped cream: Pipe a small, elegant dollop of whipped cream on the opposite side of the pie slice to balance the presentation.
Garnish with fresh mint: Add a sprig of fresh mint on top of the whipped cream for a touch of color and freshness.
Drizzle with caramel sauce: Lightly drizzle a homemade caramel sauce over the apple pie slice and around the plate for added sweetness and visual appeal.
Dust with powdered sugar: Use a fine sieve to dust a light layer of powdered sugar over the entire plate, giving it a delicate, snowy effect.
Add a touch of cinnamon: Lightly sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon over the vanilla ice cream for an aromatic finish.
Serve with a side of apple compote: Place a small ramekin of apple compote on the plate to enhance the apple flavor and provide a textural contrast.
Finish with a gold leaf: For an extra touch of luxury, add a small piece of edible gold leaf on top of the whipped cream or apple pie.

Essential Tools for Making the Perfect Apple Pie

Pie plate: A 9-inch pie plate is essential for shaping and baking the pie.
Cooking spray: Used to prepare the pie plate to prevent sticking.
Rolling pin: Necessary for rolling out the pie dough into large circles.
Floured workspace: A surface dusted with flour to prevent the dough from sticking while rolling.
Plastic wrap: Used to cover the pie dough while it chills in the refrigerator.
Large bowl: For mixing the sugar, cinnamon, salt, and allspice, and for tossing the apples with the flour mixture.
Whisk: To mix the sugar, cinnamon, salt, and allspice together.
Knife: For thinly slicing the apples.
Lemon juicer: To extract lemon juice for tossing with the apples.
Measuring spoons: For measuring the spices and lemon juice accurately.
Measuring cups: For measuring the sugar and flour.
Pastry brush: To brush the egg white onto the pie crust.
Aluminum foil: Used to cover the edges of the pie crust to prevent over-browning.
Pie crust shield: An alternative to aluminum foil for protecting the pie crust edges.
Oven: Preheated to 375 degrees F for baking the pie.
Wire rack: For cooling the pie to room temperature after baking.

How To Store and Freeze Your Homemade Apple Pie

Once the apple pie has cooled completely, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. You can store the covered pie at room temperature for up to 2 days.
If you want to keep the apple pie fresh for a longer period, you can store it in the refrigerator. Wrap the cooled pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the fridge for up to 5 days. When you're ready to serve, let the pie come to room temperature or warm it up slightly in the oven.
To freeze the apple pie, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure there are no air pockets. Then, place the wrapped pie in a freezer-safe bag or container and label it with the date. You can freeze the pie for up to 3 months.
When you're ready to enjoy the frozen apple pie, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, you can reheat the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until it's warmed through and the crust is crispy.
If you have leftover apple pie slices, wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the individual slices for up to 2 months, following the same wrapping and storing method as for the whole pie.

How To Reheat Leftover Apple Pie

The best way to reheat leftover homemade apple pie is in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Cover the edges of the crust with foil to prevent them from burning, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is heated through and the crust is crisp.
If you're short on time, you can also reheat individual slices of apple pie in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 30-45 seconds, or until warmed to your liking. Be careful not to overheat the pie, as this can cause the filling to become too hot and potentially burn your mouth.
For a crispy crust, you can also reheat apple pie slices in an air fryer. Set the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the slice in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the crust is crispy and the filling is heated through.
If you want to enjoy your leftover apple pie cold, simply remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to develop and the texture to soften slightly.
For a decadent twist, try warming up a slice of apple pie in a skillet with a pat of butter. Melt the butter over medium heat and place the slice in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the crust is crispy and the filling is heated through. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Random Fact About Homemade Apple Pie

A fun fact about this apple pie recipe is that the combination of Granny Smith and McIntosh apples provides a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, creating a more complex and flavorful filling.

Is Making Apple Pie at Home Economical?

This homemade apple pie recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The primary ingredients, such as granny smith apples, mcintosh apples, and all-purpose flour, are relatively inexpensive and readily available. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $10-$12 USD. Given the delightful taste and the joy of making a dessert from scratch, this recipe scores a solid 8 out of 10 in terms of cost-effectiveness and overall satisfaction.

Is Homemade Apple Pie Healthy or Unhealthy?

The homemade apple pie recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:

High sugar content: The recipe calls for ¾ cup of sugar, which is a significant amount for a single pie.
Refined flour: The all-purpose flour used in the pie dough and filling is a refined carbohydrate, lacking in nutrients and fiber.
Saturated fat: The pie dough likely contains a considerable amount of butter or shortening, which are high in saturated fats.
Lack of nutrients: While apples do provide some vitamins and minerals, the overall nutritional value of the pie is limited.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the sugar content by using less sugar or substituting a portion with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. You can also experiment with using sweeter apple varieties to minimize the need for added sugars.

Replace a portion of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or oat flour to increase the fiber content and nutritional value of the pie crust and filling.

Opt for a healthier pie crust recipe that uses less butter or shortening, or consider using a nut-based crust for added protein and healthy fats.

Serve smaller portions of the pie and pair it with nutrient-dense toppings like Greek yogurt instead of ice cream or whipped cream.

Incorporate additional spices like ginger or cardamom to enhance the flavor without relying on extra sugar.

Editor's Thoughts on This Classic Dessert

This apple pie recipe is a classic, blending tart Granny Smith and sweet McIntosh apples for a balanced filling. The spice mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice adds warmth and depth. The technique of chilling the dough ensures a flaky crust, while the egg white wash gives a beautiful golden finish. The detailed instructions, including the pie crust shield, show a thoughtful approach to prevent over-browning. Serving with vanilla ice cream and whipped cream elevates the dessert to a comforting, indulgent treat. Overall, it's a well-rounded recipe that promises a delicious homemade apple pie.

Enhance Your Homemade Apple Pie Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Butternut Squash Soup: Imagine a velvety soup that dances on your palate with hints of nutmeg and cinnamon, perfectly complementing the warm spices of your apple pie. This soup is like a cozy blanket on a crisp autumn day, making every bite of your dessert even more delightful.

Maple-Glazed Brussels Sprouts: Picture brussels sprouts caramelized to perfection with a maple syrup glaze, adding a touch of sweetness that mirrors the sugar in your pie. The slight bitterness of the vegetables balances the richness of the dessert, creating a harmonious symphony of flavors.

Cranberry Walnut Salad: Envision a salad bursting with the tartness of cranberries and the crunch of walnuts, tossed in a light vinaigrette. This refreshing side adds a vibrant contrast to the buttery, flaky crust of your apple pie, making each bite a celebration of textures and tastes.

Honey-Glazed Carrots: Think of carrots roasted to a tender perfection, drizzled with a honey glaze that brings out their natural sweetness. These vegetables offer a delightful counterpoint to the tartness of the granny smith apples in your pie, making for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

Spiced Pecans: Visualize pecans roasted with a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of allspice. These crunchy, aromatic nuts provide a delightful contrast to the soft, juicy apples in your pie, adding an extra layer of flavor and texture to your dessert experience.

Alternative Recipes Similar to Apple Pie

Classic Peach Cobbler: Dive into the sweet and juicy world of peaches with this classic dessert. The golden-brown crust paired with the tender, syrupy peaches makes for a heavenly treat. Perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Blueberry Crumble: Experience the burst of blueberries in every bite with this delightful crumble. The crunchy topping contrasts beautifully with the soft, sweet berries, creating a symphony of textures and flavors.

Pumpkin Pie: Embrace the flavors of fall with this spiced pumpkin pie. The creamy pumpkin filling, infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, sits perfectly in a flaky crust. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream.

Cherry Tart: Indulge in the tart and sweet combination of cherries nestled in a buttery crust. This elegant dessert is perfect for any occasion and pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Pear Galette: Savor the rustic charm of this pear galette. The flaky, free-form crust envelops tender, spiced pears, creating a dessert that's as beautiful as it is delicious. A drizzle of honey adds the perfect finishing touch.

Suggested Appetizers and Main Courses to Complement Your Apple Pie

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delectable stuffed mushrooms. Imagine plump mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The filling is then topped with a sprinkle of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, creating a crispy, golden crust. These bite-sized delights are perfect for any gathering, offering a burst of flavor in every mouthful. Serve them warm, and watch them disappear in no time.

Bruschetta: Transport your guests to the heart of Italy with a classic bruschetta. Start with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with a hint of garlic. Top each slice with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella. Drizzle with a touch of extra virgin olive oil and a splash of balsamic glaze. This appetizer is not only visually appealing but also bursts with fresh, zesty flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, garlic, and fresh herbs. The chicken is then grilled to perfection, achieving a beautiful char and a juicy interior. Serve it alongside a vibrant quinoa salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced and flavorful meal. The citrusy notes and aromatic herbs make this dish a refreshing choice for any occasion.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight your taste buds with Stuffed Bell Peppers. These colorful peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomatoes, seasoned with a blend of spices that bring out the best in each ingredient. Baked until the peppers are tender and the filling is perfectly cooked, this dish is both hearty and nutritious. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread to complete the meal. The combination of textures and flavors makes this a satisfying and comforting choice for dinner.

Why trust this Homemade Apple Pie Recipe:

This homemade apple pie recipe is a must-try for any baking enthusiast. Using a blend of granny smith and mcintosh apples, it offers the perfect balance of tart and sweet flavors. The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice creates a warm, aromatic filling that is irresistible. The flaky pie crust and the golden-brown finish ensure a delightful texture in every bite. Serve it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence. Trust this recipe for a classic dessert that will impress your family and friends.

Want to share your own apple pie recipe or discuss baking tips and techniques? Join the conversation in the Baking and Desserts forum and let's talk about this delicious homemade apple pie recipe!

FAQ:

How do I prevent the bottom crust from getting soggy?

To keep the bottom crust from getting soggy, make sure to chill the pie dough before adding the filling. Also, you can brush the bottom crust with a thin layer of egg white before adding the apples. This creates a barrier that helps keep the juices from soaking into the crust.

Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! While I recommend granny smith and mcintosh apples for their balance of tartness and sweetness, you can mix and match other varieties like honeycrisp, braeburn, or fuji based on your preference.

How do I know when the pie is done baking?

The pie is done when the crust is a deep golden brown and the juices just barely start to seep out of the slits in the top crust. This usually takes about 60 minutes in total, but keep an eye on it as oven temperatures can vary.

Can I make the pie dough from scratch?

Yes, you can definitely make the pie dough from scratch if you prefer. There are plenty of great recipes out there for homemade pie crust. Just make sure to chill the dough thoroughly before rolling it out.

How should I store leftover apple pie?

Store any leftover apple pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to five days or freeze it for up to three months. Just reheat it in the oven before serving to get that fresh-baked taste.