Description
This Classic Apple Pie brings together the perfect combination of tart Granny Smith apples and sweet Pink Lady apples, all wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust. Each slice is warm, fragrant, and comforting — with notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and caramelized sugar that fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Whether served on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this pie is the definition of homemade comfort and timeless flavor.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This apple pie is perfect for:
- Home bakers who want to master a traditional dessert.
- Holiday hosts looking for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dessert.
- Apple lovers craving the classic fall flavor combination.
- Anyone who appreciates a golden, flaky crust and sweet-spiced filling.
Why You’ll Love It
- 🍏 Two types of apples: Balances tart and sweet flavors perfectly.
- 🥧 Buttery flaky crust: Crispy on the outside, tender inside.
- 🍂 Warm spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg make this pie cozy and aromatic.
- 💛 Perfect for any occasion: Thanksgiving, Christmas, or a Sunday family dinner.
- 🕒 Make-ahead friendly: You can prep the filling or crust in advance.
Ingredients
For the Pie:
- 2 rolled-out rounds of pie dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 lbs Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced ¼ inch thick
- 2 lbs Pink Lady apples, peeled, cored, and sliced ¼ inch thick
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
- 4 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cut into ½-inch pieces
For the Topping:
- 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
- 2 teaspoons granulated sugar (for sprinkling)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- 9-inch pie dish
- Dutch oven or large saucepan
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
- Kitchen scissors or knife
- Pastry wheel (for lattice crust, optional)
- Wire cooling rack
- Baking sheet and aluminum foil
How to Make Apple Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Place one rolled-out dough round into a 9-inch pie dish, gently pressing it into the bottom and sides without stretching. Trim excess dough, leaving about ¾ inch of overhang. Set aside the second dough round for later.
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
In a large Dutch oven, combine apples, sugars, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and cornstarch.
Cook over medium heat, covered, for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until apples are tender but not mushy.
Uncover and cook an additional 5–7 minutes, until the liquid thickens and turns glossy.
Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice, and let cool for 30 minutes at room temperature.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) with a baking stone and sheet pan on the lower rack.
Transfer cooled apple filling into the prepared pie crust and dot with butter pieces.
Roll out the second dough round and cut into ¾-inch strips using a pastry wheel.
Weave the strips over the filling to form a lattice crust (or cover fully with the dough and cut small vents).
Trim and flute the edges decoratively using your thumb.
Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches
Brush the top crust with egg wash and sprinkle with granulated sugar for a golden finish.
Wrap the pie’s edges in foil sprayed with nonstick spray to prevent over-browning.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the pie dish on the preheated baking sheet and bake for 25 minutes.
Remove foil and continue baking for 35 minutes, or until the crust is crisp and golden brown.
Transfer to a wire rack and cool for at least 1½ hours before slicing.
Storage Tips
- Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keeps well for 4–5 days when covered or sealed.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat at 350°F for 10–15 minutes before serving.
FAQ
Q: What are the best apples for apple pie?
A mix of Granny Smith (tart) and Pink Lady (sweet) creates the perfect flavor balance.
Q: Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes! It saves time and still tastes great — just make sure it’s buttery and flaky.
Q: How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?
Preheat your baking sheet and use a baking stone or lower rack position to ensure even heat on the bottom.
Q: Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes — you can prepare the filling and dough a day in advance, then assemble and bake fresh.
Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like a homemade apple pie — warm, golden, and filled with layers of spiced apples in a buttery crust. Whether you’re celebrating a holiday or simply craving a taste of home, this recipe delivers comfort in every bite. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, and watch it disappear in minutes!
