Perfect Apple Pie Recipe Easy Homemade Dessert for Fall

The aroma of freshly baked apple pie wafting through the kitchen is pure magic. There’s something about the combination of warm cinnamon, buttery crust, and tender apples that feels like a hug in dessert form. This perfect classic apple pie is my go-to recipe for creating cozy moments, whether it’s a crisp fall afternoon or a holiday gathering. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you want to pull out your favorite blanket and savor every single bite.

I first perfected this recipe years ago while experimenting in my grandmother’s kitchen. She always swore by using tart apples and a pinch of nutmeg to bring out the flavors. Over time, I’ve tweaked it to make the process simpler and the results foolproof. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone who’s nervous about rolling out pie dough, I promise this recipe will guide you to apple pie perfection. Let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe breaks down the steps so anyone can create a stunning homemade apple pie, even if you’re new to baking.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy items here – just wholesome pantry staples and fresh apples.
• Perfect for Fall: There’s no better way to celebrate autumn than with a warm slice of apple pie. It’s ideal for cozy evenings, Thanksgiving, or anytime you want a taste of the season.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This pie always gets rave reviews from everyone who tries it. Kids, grandparents, and everyone in between love the classic flavors.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The flaky crust, sweet-tart apples, and warm spices create a dessert that’s comforting and memorable.

What sets this recipe apart is its balance. The filling isn’t overly sweet, letting the natural flavor of the apples shine through, while the buttery crust melts in your mouth. Plus, the hint of nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that makes this pie irresistible. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s become a family favorite in my home.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Each one plays a role in creating the perfect apple pie.

For the Crust:

• 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• ½ cup (120ml) ice-cold water

For the Filling:

• 6–7 medium apples (about 2 ½ lbs or 1.1kg), peeled, cored, and sliced thin (I recommend Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (50g) light brown sugar
• 2 tbsp (16g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Assembly:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar (optional, for sprinkling)

If you prefer a sweeter pie, you can mix in a touch more brown sugar. Need a gluten-free option? Swap the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to make the perfect apple pie:

• Mixing bowls (at least two)
• Pastry cutter or food processor (for cutting butter into the dough)
• Rolling pin
• 9-inch pie dish
• Peeler and corer (for prepping apples)
• Knife and cutting board
• Pastry brush (for egg wash)
• Cooling rack

If you don’t have a pastry cutter, you can use two forks or your hands to work the butter into the flour. And if you don’t have a pie dish, a tart pan works in a pinch!

Preparation Method

1. Make the dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the diced butter and use a pastry cutter or food processor to cut it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour.
2. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Let sit for 10 minutes to allow the juices to release.
3. Roll out the crust: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disc to fit your pie dish. Gently transfer it to the dish, letting the excess hang over the edges.
4. Fill the pie: Spoon the apple mixture into the crust, mounding slightly in the center. Roll out the second dough disc and place it over the apples. Trim and crimp the edges to seal. Cut slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
5. Egg wash: Brush the top crust with beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar for a golden finish.
6. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pie for 50–60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
7. Cool: Allow the pie to cool on a rack for at least 2 hours before slicing. This helps the filling set.

Tip: If the edges of your crust brown too quickly, cover them with foil halfway through baking.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Choose the right apples: Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are ideal for apple pie because they hold their shape and offer a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
• Keep the butter cold: Chilled butter is key to achieving a flaky crust. If it starts to soften while you’re working, pop the dough in the fridge for a few minutes.
• Don’t skip the resting time: Letting the dough chill and the baked pie cool are essential steps for the best texture and flavor.
• Use a pie shield: If your crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with a pie shield or aluminum foil to prevent burning.
• Prevent soggy crust: Sprinkle a thin layer of flour or breadcrumbs over the bottom crust before adding the filling to absorb excess moisture.

Variations & Adaptations

• Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust and filling.
• Vegan: Swap the butter for vegan butter and use almond milk to brush the crust instead of egg wash.
• Caramel Apple Pie: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples before adding the top crust for an extra decadent twist.
• Seasonal Fruits: Mix in pears or cranberries with the apples for a festive flavor.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cardamom or cloves for a deeper, cozy spice profile.

One of my favorite personal tweaks is adding a handful of chopped pecans to the filling for extra crunch!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This apple pie is best served warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top. Pair it with a mug of hot cider or coffee for the ultimate comfort food experience.

To store, cover the pie tightly and refrigerate for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the pie for up to 3 months. To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s a general idea of the nutritional breakdown per slice (based on 8 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 320
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 3g

Apples are a great source of fiber and vitamin C, making this pie a slightly healthier indulgence. Just be mindful of your portion size if you’re watching your sugar intake!

Conclusion

This perfect classic apple pie recipe is more than just a dessert – it’s a tradition, a memory-maker, and a slice of comfort. Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a special occasion, or just because you’re craving something sweet, this pie delivers every time.

I hope this recipe becomes a staple in your kitchen like it is in mine. Feel free to experiment with variations or share your own personal touches – I’d love to hear about them in the comments below!

So grab your rolling pin, preheat the oven, and get ready to bake an apple pie that’s sure to impress. Happy baking!

FAQs

Can I use pre-made pie crust?

Yes! While homemade crust adds extra flavor, pre-made crust works perfectly if you’re short on time.

What are the best apples for apple pie?

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are my top picks because they hold their shape and balance sweetness with tartness.

How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?

Sprinkle a thin layer of flour or breadcrumbs on the crust before adding the filling to absorb excess moisture.

Can I freeze the pie?

Absolutely! Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in the oven for the best texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free or vegan?

You can easily adapt it by using gluten-free flour for the crust and vegan butter for the filling.

Print