The first time I made Classic Homemade Apple Pie, I was just a child standing on a stool beside my grandmother. She handed me a small paring knife and taught me how to peel apples without breaking the spiral. I didn’t realize it then, but I was learning more than how to make Classic Homemade Apple Pie. I was learning about patience, love, and the joy of creating something with my hands. That warm, spicy aroma of cinnamon and baked apples filled her tiny kitchen and my heart. I promised myself I’d always keep that recipe close, and to this day, Classic Homemade Apple Pie is my favorite dessert to share.
Picking the Perfect Apples
When I make this pie now, I always start with a trip to the farmer’s market. Granny Smith apples are my go-to because their tartness balances the sweet filling. Sometimes, I mix in a few Honeycrisp apples for a hint of natural sweetness. I love chatting with the vendors about their harvest while carefully selecting the best apples. As I carry the bag home, I feel a sense of excitement, knowing that each apple will add its own touch to my pie. It’s a small tradition, but it makes the process feel special every time.
The Secret to Perfect Crust
The buttery crust is just as important as the filling, and I’ve learned a few tricks over the years. Ice-cold butter and a splash of vinegar are the keys to a flaky texture. I smile every time I roll out the dough, remembering how I once struggled to keep it from tearing. Now, it’s a peaceful moment—a chance to focus and enjoy the simple act of creating something from scratch. I use my grandmother’s rolling pin, its handle worn smooth, and I think of her hands guiding mine so long ago.
Sharing Love Through Baking
When the pie is finally baked, golden and bubbling, I can hardly wait to share it. Cutting the first slice feels like opening a gift, and I watch as my family takes their first bites. Their smiles and the quiet hum of enjoyment remind me why I love baking. Classic Homemade Apple Pie is more than a dessert—it’s a way to bring people together, to pass down traditions, and to create new memories. It’s a piece of my heart, served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Table of Contents
Chef’s Notes- Classic Homemade Apple Pie
- Prep Your Ingredients First: Having all ingredients measured, apples peeled, and crust ready before starting ensures a smoother process.
- Uniform Apple Slices: Thin, even slices of apples help them cook evenly, preventing soggy or undercooked spots in the pie.
- Chill Your Dough: If using homemade crust or handling the pre-made dough for a while, chill it for 10-15 minutes to ensure a flaky texture.
- Protect the Crust Edges: Use aluminum foil or a pie crust shield during baking to prevent the edges from over-browning.
- Thicken the Sauce Properly: Simmer the butter-sugar mixture until it reaches a slightly syrupy consistency for a richer filling.
- Use a Baking Sheet: Place the pie plate on a baking sheet to catch potential spills, keeping your oven clean.
- Brush the Crust: Lightly brush the lattice with milk or an egg wash for a beautifully golden finish.
Classic Homemade Apple Pie
4
slices30
minutes1
hour450
kcal15
minutes1
hour45
minutesExperience the timeless delight of Classic Homemade Apple Pie, perfected with a harmonious blend of tart Granny Smith apples and a buttery, flaky crust. This recipe, inspired by cherished family traditions, guarantees a winning dessert for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive holiday gathering, this pie promises to impress with its golden crust and flavorful filling. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, you’ll understand why this apple pie is a beloved favorite among home bakers and food enthusiasts alike. Dive into this scrumptious classic today and treat your taste buds to a slice of tradition!
Ingredients
- Crust
1 (9-inch) pre-made double crust pie pastry thawed
- Filling
8 small Granny Smith apples peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
1/2 cup unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1/2 cup white granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup water
- Alternative Ingredients:
Apples: Substitute Granny Smith with Honeycrisp or a mix of tart and sweet apples.
Unsalted Butter: Use margarine or vegan butter for dairy-free option.
All-purpose Flour: Gluten-free flour blend can replace all-purpose flour.
White Sugar: Coconut sugar or maple sugar as alternatives.
Pie Pastry: Gluten-free pie crust for gluten-free diets.
Directions
- Prepare the Filling: Melt half a cup of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in three tablespoons of all-purpose flour to form a smooth paste. Gradually add half a cup of white sugar and half a cup of brown sugar, mixing well. Pour in a quarter cup of water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until it thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Assemble the Pie: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place one thawed pie crust into a 9-inch pie plate, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides evenly. Arrange the sliced apples over the crust in a uniform layer.
- Create the Lattice Crust: Use the second pie crust to weave a lattice pattern on top of the apples. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
- Add the Filling and Bake: Pour the butter-sugar mixture evenly over the lattice crust. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 35-45 minutes until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
Equipment
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
- saucepan
- pie plate
- Baking sheet
- Rolling Pin
- Mixing bowls
- measuring cups and spoons
- pastry brush
- oven
Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Potassium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 40g
- Protein: 4g
- Vitamin A: 500IU
- Vitamin C: 10mg
- Calcium: 50mg
- Iron: 2mg
FAQ- Classic Homemade Apple Pie
Can I use different apples for this pie?
Yes! While Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness, you can mix in sweet varieties like Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Golden Delicious for a more balanced flavor.
How can I make the pie crust from scratch?
If you prefer homemade crust, mix 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 cup of chilled unsalted butter (cut into cubes), and 6-8 tablespoons of ice water until it forms a dough. Chill before rolling out.
What can I do if my pie crust edges brown too quickly?
Cover the edges with aluminum foil or a pie crust shield about 15 minutes into baking to prevent over-browning while the rest of the pie cooks.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, bake the pie a day ahead and store it at room temperature or in the fridge. Warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes before serving.
How do I store leftover pie?
Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. It stays fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.
