Best Recipe for Apple Pie

If you’re looking for a dessert that warms the heart and fills your home with the sweet aroma of baked apples, then you’ve landed on the right recipe: the Best Recipe for Apple Pie! This pie is not just any dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a bustling holiday dinner, this apple pie brings everyone together. Trust me, once you try this method, you’ll never go back to store-bought again!

I remember the first time I took a bite of a freshly baked apple pie made from scratch. The crispy crust, the perfectly spiced apples—it was pure bliss! This recipe combines a double crust with a deliciously cooked filling that strikes the perfect balance between tender and firm. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this delightful treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Follow: With simple steps and ingredients, making this pie is easier than you think!
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet and tart apples creates a mouthwatering filling that’s bursting with flavor.
• Family Favorite: Perfect for gatherings, this pie is sure to become a beloved tradition in your home.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare the filling in advance, making it easy to whip up at a moment’s notice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering fresh ingredients is part of the fun! This recipe calls for wholesome components that come together beautifully. Here’s what you need to create this scrumptious apple pie:

• 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 apple pie is how flexible it can be! Feel free to get creative with these ideas:

• Change Up the Apples: Mix different varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for unique flavors.
• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.
• Spice it Up: Experiment by adding ginger or cloves for additional warmth.
• Go Crumble Style: If you prefer, top your pie with a crumble instead of another crust for a textured twist.

How to Make Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Step 1: Choose Your Apples

Start by selecting your apples. For this recipe, you’ll need about 11 large apples, which totals around 5 pounds before peeling. I love using a mix like Granny Smith, Gala, and Golden Delicious. Each variety adds its own special touch to the flavor!

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

In a high-sided skillet, zest 1/4 teaspoon of lemon peel and add juice from half a lemon. This not only brightens up the filling but also helps prevent your apples from browning while you prep them.

Step 3: Slice Those Apples

Peel your apples using an apple peeler or potato peeler. Slice them into 1/8 inch pieces. I recommend slicing one apple at a time and tossing it into your lemon juice mixture immediately. This keeps them fresh and prevents browning!

Step 4: Cook the Apples

Once all your apples are sliced and nestled in the skillet, place it over medium heat. Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom if you’re using it. Stir gently so as not to break up those lovely apple pieces.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Cover your skillet with a lid but stay close by! Set your timer for 20 minutes and stir every few minutes until the apples are fork-tender yet retain their shape. This step ensures every bite has that perfect texture.

Step 6: Add Vanilla

Remove your skillet from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. The vanilla adds depth to the flavor profile that really takes this apple pie over the top!

Step 7: Cool Your Filling

Transfer your apple filling onto a half sheet pan or any pan with sides to cool completely. You can speed up this process by putting it in the fridge or freezer for about 30 minutes.

Step 8: Prepare Your Crust

Roll out your double pie crust into a deep 9-inch pie dish. Don’t worry if there’s excess dough hanging over; we’ll take care of that later!

Step 9: Fill Your Pie Dish

Use a rubber spatula to scrape all that delicious apple filling into your prepared crust—don’t forget every last drop of gooey goodness!

Step 10: Top with Crust

Place your second sheet of dough over the filled dish. You can create a lattice design or just cover it whole—either way will be delicious! Just remember to vent it by poking holes if you’re using a full crust.

Step 11: Chill Again

For an extra flaky crust, pop your assembled pie back in the fridge or freezer for another 20–30 minutes before baking.

Step 12: Bake at High Heat

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Let it heat thoroughly; this ensures crispiness right from the start!

Step 13: Brush Your Crust

Just before baking, brush your crust with milk or beaten egg—this helps achieve that golden-brown finish that looks as good as it tastes.

Step 14: Sugar It Up!

Sprinkle raw sugar over the top of your pie before placing it in the oven for an extra touch of sweetness.

Step 15: Initial Bake

Bake at high heat for about 15 minutes until edges turn light brown. Keep an eye on it!

Step 16: Cover Edges with Foil

Create a foil shield by cutting out circles from folded foil—this prevents burning while allowing the center to bake through perfectly.

Step 17: Lower Temperature

Don’t forget to lower your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Bake again until everything is golden brown and bubbly—around another 40–45 minutes.

Step 18: Cool It Down!

Patience is key here! Allow your beautiful creation to cool on a wire rack for about four hours before slicing—it may seem hard but trust me; it’s worth it!

Step 19: Serve & Enjoy

Once cooled completely, slice up that heavenly apple pie! My husband Eric insists on serving it warm with vanilla ice cream—but hey, I won’t judge if you go straight in without toppings!

Now you’re ready to make memories around this classic dessert! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Making the Best Recipe for Apple Pie can be a delightful experience, especially with a few insider tips to ensure your pie turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right apples: Mixing sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Gala creates a balanced flavor that enhances the overall taste of your pie.
• Don’t skip the cooling step: Allowing your apple filling to cool completely before adding it to the crust helps prevent a soggy bottom crust, ensuring that every slice holds its shape beautifully.
• Vent your pie properly: If you opt for a full top crust instead of lattice, make sure to cut slits in the top. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing overflows and ensuring an evenly baked filling.
• Use a hot oven: Preheating your oven thoroughly allows for an initial burst of heat that helps create a flaky crust, so don’t rush this step!
• Be patient while cooling: Trust me on this one! Letting your pie cool for about four hours ensures the filling sets up nicely, giving you clean slices that are easier to serve.

How to Serve Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Serving homemade apple pie is all about presentation and pairing it with complementary flavors. Here are some ideas that will elevate your dessert experience!

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a lightness and creamy texture that balances the sweetness of the pie perfectly.
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon over the top not only looks beautiful but enhances the warm spices already in your pie, making each bite even more comforting.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing! The cool creaminess contrasts wonderfully with warm apple pie, creating a delicious combination that’s hard to resist.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling some caramel sauce over your slice can add an extra layer of sweetness and richness that takes your dessert to new heights.
• Coffee or tea: Serving your pie with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea complements its flavors beautifully and provides a lovely way to wind down after a meal.
• Cheese platter: For something different, consider serving slices with mild cheese like cheddar. The savory notes contrast nicely with the sweet apples, creating a unique flavor profile.

Now that you’re equipped with these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re ready to impress everyone with your amazing homemade apple pie! Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful classic!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Best Recipe for Apple Pie is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a homemade dessert anytime you want. Whether you’re planning for a gathering or just want to have some delicious pie on hand, these storage tips will help keep your pie fresh and tasty!

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftovers at room temperature for up to 2 days, lightly covered with plastic wrap.
• After 2 days, transfer the pie to the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
• When storing, avoid cutting into the pie until you’re ready to serve, as this helps retain moisture.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil.
• Alternatively, you can slice the pie and freeze individual pieces in airtight containers.
• The pie can be frozen for up to 3 months; just be sure to label it with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat a whole pie, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pie on a baking sheet.
• Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• If reheating individual slices, microwave them for about 30-60 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

What makes this the Best Recipe for Apple Pie?

This recipe stands out due to its cooked apple filling which ensures a perfect texture. The combination of different apple varieties adds depth of flavor, while the double crust offers that delightful homemade touch.

Can I use store-bought crust for the Best Recipe for Apple Pie?

Absolutely! While I recommend making your own crust for the best flavor and texture, store-bought options can save time and still yield a delicious pie.

How long does it take to make the Best Recipe for Apple Pie?

The total time is about 340 minutes. This includes preparation time of around 20 minutes and cook time of approximately 80 minutes. Patience is key for achieving that perfect flavor!

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the apple filling a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble your pie.

Final Thoughts

I truly believe that everyone deserves a slice of homemade apple pie! This Best Recipe for Apple Pie is special because it combines wonderful textures and flavors that will surely impress anyone who tries it. I hope you enjoy making this delightful dessert as much as I do. Remember, whether it’s a cozy night in or a festive gathering with friends and family, this apple pie will bring joy to any occasion. Happy baking!