Best Recipe for Apple Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings warmth and joy to any gathering, you’ve found it! This is the Best Recipe for Apple Pie, and believe me, it’s a game changer. I used to shy away from apple pie because so many versions left me feeling disappointed—too mushy, too sweet, or just plain bland. But this recipe? It’s everything I dreamed an apple pie could be: perfectly balanced flavors, a delightful texture, and oh-so-satisfying!

This pie shines at family gatherings, cozy weeknight dinners, or whenever you need a sweet treat to lift your spirits. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up from scratch. Trust me; your loved ones will be asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Balanced Flavor: The combination of tart and sweet apples creates a lovely contrast that keeps each bite exciting.
• Perfect Texture: A pre-cooked filling ensures the apples maintain their shape while baking—no more mushy pies!
• Family Favorite: Everyone loves a good apple pie; this recipe is sure to impress both young and old alike.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the pie when you’re ready. Perfect for busy days!
• Customizable Crust: Whether you prefer a classic double crust or want to try a lattice top, this recipe has you covered.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! Each one plays a crucial role in making this apple pie the best you’ll ever have.

• 1 homemade double pie crust (2 sheets of pie dough)
• 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
• juice from half a lemon (2 tablespoons)
• 5 pounds apples (5 pounds before peeling and coring)
• 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 & 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 3/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 tablespoon milk (for brushing on pie)
• 1 tablespoon beaten egg (optional, for brushing on pie)
• 1 tablespoon raw sugar (for topping pie)

Variations

One of the best things about this apple pie recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Mix Up the Apples: Use different varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for unique flavor profiles.
• Add Some Spice: Experiment with spices like ginger or clove for an extra zing.
• Incorporate Nuts: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch in every slice.
• Go Seasonal: In fall, add some chopped cranberries or in spring, toss in some berries for freshness.

How to Make Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Step 1: Choose Your Apples

Selecting the right apples is key! Grab about 11 large apples; I recommend Granny Smith for tartness paired with Gala or Golden Delicious for sweetness. This blend creates the best flavor profile.

Step 2: Prepare Your Filling

Using a microplane grater, zest 1/4 teaspoon of lemon peel into your skillet. The zest adds brightness that enhances the apple flavor. Next, add juice from half the lemon—this helps keep your apples fresh while preventing browning.

Step 3: Peel and Slice the Apples

Peel your apples using a potato peeler or an apple peeler if you have one handy! Slice them into 1/8 inch pieces. I like to work with one apple at a time to keep them from turning brown. Toss those slices into your skillet with the lemon juice as you go.

Step 4: Cook Your Filling

Set your skillet over medium heat and add brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. Stir gently until everything is well combined. Cooking the filling helps meld those flavors together while keeping your apples tender yet firm.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Cover your skillet and set a timer for 20 minutes. Stir every few minutes so nothing sticks to the bottom. You want your apples tender but still holding their shape—this will yield that perfect texture when baked!

Step 6: Cool Down Your Filling

Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Transfer your filling into a half sheet pan to cool completely—this step ensures it doesn’t make your crust soggy later on!

Step 7: Prepare Your Pie Crust

Roll out your homemade double crust dough and fit it into a deep 9-inch pie dish with some excess hanging over the edges. This will hold all that delicious filling!

Step 8: Assemble the Pie

Scrape all that cooled apple filling into your prepared crust! Don’t leave any gooey goodness behind—it’s all part of what makes this pie special.

Step 9: Top It Off

Cover with another sheet of pie dough. If you’re feeling fancy, create a lattice top; otherwise just cover it whole! Crimp those edges however you like and remember to poke some holes in it for venting.

Step 10: Chill Before Baking

Pop your assembled pie into the fridge or freezer for about 20–30 minutes—it helps create that flaky crust we love!

Step 11: Preheat Your Oven

Place a baking sheet in the center rack of your oven while preheating to 425°F. This will catch any drips during baking.

Step 12: Brush & Sprinkle

Just before baking, brush the top crust with milk or beaten egg (or both!) then sprinkle raw sugar over it for an added crunch.

Step 13: Bake Away!

Bake at high heat for about 15 minutes until lightly golden around the edges before reducing the temperature to 350°F. Cover with foil to protect those edges from burning while allowing it to bake longer until golden brown throughout.

Step 14: Let It Cool

Once baked perfectly golden brown with bubbly filling peeking through lattice cracks (if using), let your masterpiece cool on a wire rack for about four hours—yes, I know waiting is tough but trust me on this one!

Once cooled down completely slice yourself generous pieces and enjoy every bite! Serve with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce if you’re feeling indulgent—what’s not to love? Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to two days before transferring them into the fridge. Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Making the best homemade apple pie is all about technique and a little love! Here are some pro tips to ensure your pie turns out perfectly every time.

• Use a mix of apple varieties: Combining different types of apples enhances the flavor and texture of your pie. Granny Smith adds tartness, while Gala and Golden Delicious contribute sweetness.
• Cool the filling completely: Allowing your apple filling to cool before assembling the pie helps prevent a soggy crust. It also ensures that the flavors meld beautifully.
• Don’t skip the chilling step: Chilling your assembled pie before baking allows the butter in the crust to firm up again, leading to a flakier crust after baking. It’s worth the wait!
• Monitor baking times closely: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your pie as it bakes. Look for golden edges and bubbling filling to know when it’s done.
• Let it rest before serving: Patience pays off! Allowing your pie to cool for at least 4 hours helps set the filling, making slices cleaner and more visually appealing.

How to Serve Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Serving your homemade apple pie can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation and enjoyment.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that complements the richness of the pie.
• Cinnamon sugar sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top enhances flavor and gives a beautiful finish to each slice.
• Sliced almonds: Sprinkle some toasted sliced almonds on top for an extra crunch and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with apples.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing with warm apple pie—its creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the flaky crust.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice for an indulgent touch that takes this dessert to another level.
• Spiced tea or cider: Sip on a warm cup of spiced tea or cider alongside your pie. The warm spices will harmonize perfectly with the flavors in the dessert.
• Cheddar cheese: For those who enjoy savory-sweet combinations, serve a slice with sharp cheddar cheese—it’s a delightful contrast that many love.

Enjoy making memories around this delicious dessert! Your friends and family will be coming back for seconds—and maybe even thirds!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Best Recipe for Apple Pie is perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time, ensuring you have a delicious dessert ready when you need it. Here are some tips for storing and enjoying your pie later!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days, then transfer to the refrigerator.

Freezing

• Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any plastic wrap and cover the pie loosely with aluminum foil.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

If you have questions about making this delightful pie, you’ve come to the right place!

Can I make this Best Recipe for Apple Pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and crust in advance, assemble the pie, and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to bake.

What apples are best for this apple pie recipe?

For the best flavor and texture in your Best Recipe for Apple Pie, I recommend using a mix of Granny Smith, Gala, and Golden Delicious apples.

How do I know when my apple pie is done baking?

Your apple pie is done when the edges are brown and the center is light golden brown. If you did a lattice crust, look for bubbling filling as an indicator of doneness.

Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of homemade?

Yes! If you’re short on time or prefer convenience, store-bought pie crusts work great as a substitute in this recipe.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Best Recipe for Apple Pie as much as I do! There’s something so comforting about a warm slice of homemade pie that fills your home with delightful aromas. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy baking!