Homemade Classic Apple Pie Recipe from Scratch

Ingredients

1.5 cups of all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon of salt
1/2 cup of unsalted butter, chilled and diced
4-5 tablespoons of ice water
1 cup of granulated sugar
2 tablespoons of brown sugar
1/4 cup of cornstarch
1/4 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon of ground allspice
6 cups of fresh peeled and sliced apples
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
1 tablespoon of unsalted butter, diced into small cubes
1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon of granulated sugar (for sprinkling)

Steps and instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (220 degrees Celsius).
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt for the crust. Add in the diced butter and use your hands or a pastry cutter to cut it in until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, stirring the mixture until a ball of dough forms.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight.
After the dough has chilled, roll it out on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie plate and gently press it into the bottom and sides of the plate. Trim off any excess dough hanging over the edge, then flute the edges or press with a fork for a decorative crust.
In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. Add in the peeled and sliced apples and lemon juice, then toss to combine.
Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust, then dot with the diced butter.
Roll out the remaining dough on the floured surface, then cut into strips to make a lattice topping for the pie. Lay half of the strips across the pie, then fold back every other strip and place another strip perpendicular. Unfold the folded strips over the perpendicular strip, then continue this process until the lattice is complete.
Trim, tuck, and crimp the edges of the lattice strips, then brush the top of the pie with the beaten egg and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips, then bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling. If the edges of the crust begin to brown too much, cover them with aluminum foil.
Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving.

Tools for making

Mixing Bowl - A large bowl to mix the ingredients for the pie crust and filling.
Pastry Cutter - A tool used to cut the butter into the flour for the crust, creating a crumbly texture.
Plastic Wrap - Used to wrap and refrigerate the dough for the crust.
Rolling Pin - Used to roll out the pie dough into a circle for the crust and to roll out the lattice strips.
9-inch Pie Plate - A round baking dish specifically designed for making pies.
Fork - Can be used to press the edges of the pie crust or create a decorative pattern.
Baking Sheet - Placed under the pie plate while baking to catch any drips or spills.
Pastry Brush - Used to brush the beaten egg onto the top of the pie for a shiny finish.
Wire Rack - Used to cool the baked pie to room temperature before slicing and serving.

Recipe variations

Use a different type of crust, such as a graham cracker crust or a gluten-free crust.
Experiment with different types of flour, such as whole wheat flour or almond flour, for a healthier or gluten-free option.
Add a twist to the filling by incorporating other fruits like peaches, berries, or pears.
Enhance the flavor profile by adding spices like ginger, cloves, or cardamom to the filling.
Create a streusel topping instead of a lattice crust by combining flour, brown sugar, and butter, then sprinkling it over the filling.
Make it a savory pie by substituting the apples with vegetables like butternut squash or sweet potatoes.
Add a crunchy texture by mixing chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the filling or sprinkling them on top.
Add a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream on each slice before serving.
For a vegan option, replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine and use a plant-based egg substitute.
Experiment with different apple varieties to discover unique flavor combinations.

Recipe overview

Welcome to your go-to guide for making a classic Apple Pie from scratch. This traditional recipe will guide you through each step, from preparing a tender, flaky crust to creating the perfect blend of spiced apple filling. You'll also learn how to create a beautiful lattice top that not only looks impressive but also lets some steam escape, keeping your filling nice and thick. With this simple and detailed recipe, you'll create a pie that boasts a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, all wrapped up in a buttery, pastry crust. The result? A deliciously comforting and iconic dessert that's sure to become a favorite for any occasion. Get ready to impress your guests with your baking skills!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of flour for the crust? Yes, you can use alternative flours such as whole wheat flour or a gluten-free flour blend, but keep in mind that it may slightly affect the texture and taste of the crust.
How do I know when the dough has chilled long enough? The dough should feel firm and cold to the touch. It is recommended to refrigerate it for at least 4 hours to allow the butter to solidify and the dough to relax.
Can I use store-bought pie crust instead? Absolutely! If you prefer the convenience of a store-bought crust, you can use that instead of making your own homemade crust.
Can I use a different type of apple? Yes, feel free to choose your favorite type of apple for this recipe. Popular choices include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala apples which offer a good balance of tartness and sweetness.
Can I freeze the pie? Yes, you can freeze the pie before baking. Just assemble the pie as instructed, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in the freezer. When ready to bake, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed. Alternatively, you can also freeze the baked pie, allowing it to cool completely before wrapping and freezing.
How should I store the leftover pie? To keep the pie fresh, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It is best enjoyed within 3-4 days of baking.
Can I add other ingredients like nuts or spices to the filling? Certainly! Feel free to customize the filling by adding chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts, or additional spices like ginger or cloves to suit your taste preferences.

Serving dishes and utensils

Rolling Pin - Used for rolling out the pie crust.
Pie Plate - A 9-inch pie plate to hold and bake the pie.
Pastry Cutter - Used for cutting the butter into the flour when making the crust.
Baking Sheet - Placed underneath the pie plate to catch any drips while baking.
Wire Rack - Used for cooling the pie after it is baked.

Origin stories

While the exact origins of the apple pie are a bit nebulous, it certainly has a deep-rooted association with American culture and identity. However, it's worth noting that apple pies were being made in Europe long before the colonization of America. The first recorded apple pie recipe was written in England and dates back to 1381. It called for figs, raisins, pears, and saffron in addition to apples. The apple pie as we know it today, with a top and bottom crust, became popular in the 18th century. The phrase "as American as apple pie" emerged in the mid-20th century to symbolize the country's prosperity and national pride. And yet, the apples used in the early American pies were not native to the continent and had to be imported from Europe. It's a delicious testament to the blend of cultures that have shaped the history and cuisine of the United States.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.