Classic American Apple Pie Recipe

Introduction

Classic American Apple Pie is a timeless dessert that combines a flaky, buttery crust with a sweet and spiced apple filling. Perfect for any season, this pie fills your kitchen with comforting aromas and makes a delightful treat for family and friends.

Ingredients

• 6–7 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup cold butter (cut into cubes)
• 6–8 tablespoons ice-cold water

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold butter cubes and rub them into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, and form a soft dough. Divide the dough into two portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Step 2: Peel, core, and slice the apples. In a separate bowl, combine the apples with sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, flour (or cornstarch), and vanilla extract. Toss everything gently to coat the apple slices evenly.
3. Step 3: Roll out one portion of the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface until it fits your pie dish. Transfer it to the dish and press it into place. Pour the apple filling evenly over the crust.
4. Step 4: Roll out the second dough portion and place it over the apples. Seal the edges by pinching or crimping, then cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
5. Step 5: Bake the pie in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 45–50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the slits.
6. Step 6: Allow the pie to cool for at least 1 hour before serving. Enjoy warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra special touch.

Tips & Variations

• Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for balanced flavor and texture.
• Brush the top crust with an egg wash before baking for a shiny, golden finish.
• For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend in both the crust and filling.
• Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the filling for extra warmth and complexity.

Storage

Store leftover apple pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the microwave or oven until warmed through. The pie also freezes well wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use pre-made pie crust instead of making my own?

Absolutely! Store-bought pie crusts can save time and still yield a delicious pie. Just follow the assembly and baking instructions as usual.

How do I prevent the crust edges from burning?

Cover the edges with aluminum foil or a pie crust shield about halfway through baking to prevent over-browning while allowing the filling to cook fully.

Classic American Apple Pie Recipe

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Classic American Apple Pie featuring a flaky, buttery crust filled with a perfectly spiced apple mixture. This timeless dessert balances tart and sweet flavors with warming cinnamon and nutmeg, making it an ideal treat for any occasion.

• Author: Mia
• Prep Time: 40 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

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For the Filling:

• 6–7 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Crust:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 cup cold butter (cut into cubes)
• 6–8 tablespoons ice-cold water

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold cubed butter and rub it into the flour mixture using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually pour in the ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together into a soft ball. Divide the dough into two equal portions, wrap each in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
2. Make the Filling: Peel, core, and slice the apples. Place them in a large bowl and add the sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, flour (or cornstarch), and vanilla extract. Toss everything thoroughly until the apple slices are evenly coated with the spiced mixture.
3. Assemble the Pie: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one portion of the chilled dough into a circle to fit your pie dish. Transfer it to the dish and gently press it into place. Pour the prepared apple filling into the crust. Roll out the second dough portion and cover the pie. Seal the edges by pinching or crimping, and cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
4. Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie on the middle rack and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the slits.
5. Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least one hour to allow the filling to set. Serve warm, optionally accompanied by vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch.

Notes

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced flavor that is not overly sweet.
• To prevent the crust edges from over-browning, cover them with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking if necessary.
• The lemon juice helps to prevent the apples from browning and adds a subtle tang.
• Chilling the dough is essential for a flaky crust.
• You can substitute butter with shortening or lard for a different crust texture.

Keywords: apple pie, classic apple pie, American dessert, baking, homemade apple pie, fall dessert