Best Recipe for Apple Pie

If you’re looking for the Best Recipe for Apple Pie, you’ve come to the right place! This recipe is not just about baking; it’s about creating memories. There’s something magical about the warm, spiced aroma of apples and cinnamon filling your kitchen. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a casual weeknight treat, this pie brings comfort and joy to any table.

What makes this apple pie so special is its perfect balance of flavors and textures. The double crust is flaky and golden, while the filling is cooked just right—tender apples with a hint of zest and spice that will make your taste buds sing. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought pies!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and ingredients, this recipe takes the stress out of baking.
• Family Favorite: Everyone loves a good apple pie; it’s perfect for all ages!
• Versatile: Great for any occasion—holidays, potlucks, or just because.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the filling in advance and assemble when you’re ready to bake.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and sweet apples creates an unforgettable taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Gathering these items will set you up for success in making the Best Recipe for Apple Pie!

For the Pie Crust

• 1 homemade double pie crust (2 sheets of pie dough)

For the Filling

• 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

For Finishing Touches

• 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 how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Mix Up Your Apples: Use different types of apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a unique flavor twist.
• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch.
• Experiment with Spices: Swap out nutmeg or cardamom for ginger or allspice if you want to change things up.
• Sweeten It Up: Add dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for an extra layer of sweetness.

How to Make Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Step 1: Choose Your Apples

The first step in making the Best Recipe for Apple Pie is selecting your apples. Aim for about 5 pounds, which is roughly 11 large apples. I recommend a mix like Granny Smith, Gala, and Golden Delicious. Each type brings its own flavor profile that enhances your pie!

Step 2: Make the Filling

Start by zesting 1/4 teaspoon of lemon peel into a high-sided skillet. Then squeeze juice from half a lemon into the skillet as well. This step adds brightness and prevents your apples from browning while you prepare them.

Step 3: Prepare Your Apples

Peel your apples using a potato peeler or handy apple peeler. Slice them into 1/8 inch pieces. I like to peel and slice one apple at a time to keep them fresh. Toss each freshly cut apple into the skillet with lemon juice to coat them well.

Step 4: Cook the Filling

Once all your apples are sliced and in the pan, set it over medium heat. Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and optional cardamom. Stir gently but thoroughly until everything is combined without breaking too many apple slices.

Step 5: Simmer It Down

Cover your mixture with a lid but don’t wander off! Set a timer for 20 minutes. The goal here is to get those apples fork-tender while still maintaining their shape. Stir every few minutes—this will help everything cook evenly.

Step 6: Cool It Off

After cooking down your filling, remove it from heat and stir in vanilla. Transfer this delicious mixture onto a half sheet pan to cool completely—30 minutes in the fridge should do it!

Step 7: Assemble Your Pie

Roll out your dough into a deep 9-inch pie dish with excess hanging over the edges. Scrape all that cooled filling into your crust using a spatula so none of that gooey goodness goes to waste!

Step 8: Top It Off

Now it’s time to add that second crust! You can either create a pretty lattice design or simply lay it flat over top—both ways are delightful! Don’t forget to crimp those edges together firmly.

Step 9: Chill Before Baking

Pop your entire assembled pie back in the fridge or freezer for about 20-30 minutes before baking. This helps achieve that flaky texture we all love!

Step 10: Preheat Your Oven

While your pie chills, place a baking sheet on the center rack of your oven and preheat it to 425°F. A hot oven is key for achieving that perfectly golden crust.

Step 11: Brush & Sprinkle

Right before baking, brush milk or beaten egg over the crust—it helps with browning! Sprinkle raw sugar on top for an extra sweet finish.

Step 12: Bake Away!

Bake at high temperature for about 15 minutes until edges start turning light brown. Then reduce heat to 350°F after covering edges with foil to prevent burning.

Step 13: Let It Cool

Once baked perfectly golden brown on top with bubbling filling visible through lattice strips (if using), allow cooling on a wire rack for approximately four hours—patience pays off here!

Once completely cooled down… slice away! Serve as-is or indulge with vanilla ice cream—it’s heavenly! Store leftovers covered on counter up two days before transferring any remaining pieces into fridge where they’ll last even longer! Enjoy every bite of this warm hug in dessert form!

Pro Tips for Making Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Making the Best Apple Pie is all about the details—here are some tips to elevate your baking game!

• Choose a variety of apples: Mixing different types of apples, like Granny Smith and Gala, adds depth to the flavor and ensures a balanced sweetness and tartness in your pie.

• Let the filling cool completely: Cooling the filling before adding it to the crust prevents a soggy bottom and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

• Brush with milk for shine: A milk wash will give your crust a beautiful golden hue, while an egg wash can add extra gloss. Choosing one or both makes your pie look as good as it tastes!

• Use foil to protect edges: Covering the edges with foil halfway through baking prevents them from burning while allowing the center to cook thoroughly.

• Be patient while cooling: Letting your pie cool for at least 4 hours allows the filling to set properly, resulting in perfect slices that hold their shape when served.

How to Serve Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Serving your homemade apple pie is just as important as making it! Here are some delightful ways to present this classic dessert.

Garnishes

• Whipped Coconut Cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light and airy finish that complements the warm spices in the pie.

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkling toasted walnuts or pecans on top gives a crunchy contrast and enhances the overall texture.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing is irresistible; the creamy texture of vanilla ice cream contrasts beautifully with the warm, spiced apples.

• Caramel Sauce: Drizzling caramel sauce over each slice adds an indulgent touch that makes every bite feel like a special treat.

• Cheddar Cheese: For those who enjoy a savory twist, serving sharp cheddar cheese alongside apple pie is a traditional favorite that balances sweetness with saltiness.

• Coffee or Tea: Offering a cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea enhances the experience, inviting guests to linger over their delicious dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Best Recipe for Apple Pie is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it, or even freeze it to enjoy later. Here’s how to handle leftovers and ensure your pie stays delicious.

Storing Leftovers

• Store your pie on the counter, covered with plastic wrap, for up to 2 days.
• After 2 days, transfer the pie to the refrigerator to keep it fresh.
• When serving leftovers, let them come to room temperature for the best flavor.

Freezing

• To freeze the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Label it with the date and type of pie before placing it in the freezer.
• The pie can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any wrapping and place the pie on a baking sheet.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, ensuring that the filling is hot but not bubbling over.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe:

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

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and store it separately from the crust in the fridge for up to a day or freeze both components for later use. Assemble and bake when you’re ready!

What apples are best for this Best Recipe for Apple Pie?

A mix of tart and sweet apples works best! Granny Smiths bring tartness while Gala or Golden Delicious add sweetness. Feel free to experiment with different varieties!

Can I substitute ingredients in this apple pie recipe?

Yes! If you’re looking to reduce sugar, you can use less brown sugar or replace some with a natural sweetener like maple syrup. For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.

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

Your apple pie is done when the edges are golden brown and you see bubbling filling through any vents in the crust. Letting it cool completely is key to achieving that perfect texture!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you have as much fun making this Best Recipe for Apple Pie as I did! It’s such a classic dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. Whether you enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or simply on its own, I’m sure it’s going to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy every slice and share your love for homemade goodness!