Print

Classic American Apple Pie Recipe

4.9 from 123 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Filling:

  • 67 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)
  • 68 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