This Old-Fashioned Glazed Apple Pie is a timeless dessert that tastes like it came straight from Grandma’s kitchen. With tender cinnamon-spiced apples, a buttery flaky crust, and a delicate vanilla glaze brushed on top, this pie is the definition of comforting, home-baked perfection.
Unlike modern shortcuts, this recipe celebrates traditional techniques—handmade pastry, simple pantry ingredients, and a balance of sweetness that lets the apples shine. The finishing glaze adds just a hint of elegance without overpowering the classic flavor.
Who Is This Recipe For?
This apple pie is perfect for:
- Home bakers who love traditional desserts
- Anyone craving a nostalgic, homemade pie
- Holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving and Christmas
- Sunday family dinners or special occasions
- Bakers who enjoy making crust from scratch
Why It’s Great
- Uses simple, classic ingredients
- Features a tender apple filling with warm cinnamon
- Flaky, buttery crust made the old-fashioned way
- Light glaze adds shine and flavor without excess sweetness
- Perfect balance of rustic and elegant
Ingredients
Apple Filling
- 6 cups apples, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Flaky Pie Crust
- 3¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups shortening
- 2 egg yolks + water to equal 1 cup
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 egg white, reserved (for brushing)
Thin Vanilla Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp milk or light cream
- ½ tsp vanilla extract
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowls
- Pastry cutter or fork
- Rolling pin
- 9-inch pie pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pastry brush
- Small bowl for glaze
How to Make Glazed Apple Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the shortening until crumbly. Add egg yolks and enough water to make a soft dough. Divide in half, wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
Combine sliced apples, sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a bowl. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Roll out one dough portion and place into the pie pan. Fill with apple mixture. Roll out the second dough, place on top, and seal edges. Cut small slits for steam.
Step 4: Bake
Brush the top crust with the reserved egg white. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45–50 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbling.
Step 5: Add the Glaze
Mix powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle lightly over the warm pie.
Storage
- Room Temperature: Up to 24 hours, loosely covered
- Refrigerator: Store for up to 4 days
- Freezer: Baked pie can be frozen for up to 2 months (glaze after thawing)
FAQ
What apples work best for this pie?
Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix of both provide the best texture and flavor.
Can I skip the glaze?
Yes. The pie is delicious without it, but the glaze adds a classic bakery-style finish.
Why use shortening in the crust?
Shortening creates an exceptionally flaky texture that holds up well to juicy fillings.
Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely. Dough can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for later use.
Conclusion
This Old-Fashioned Glazed Apple Pie is proof that classic recipes never go out of style. From the tender apple filling to the flaky crust and delicate glaze, every bite feels comforting, familiar, and deeply satisfying.
