Homemade Apple Pie

Nothing says home like a slice of warm apple pie fresh from the oven. From the very first flake of buttery, golden crust to the tender, cinnamon-kissed apple filling, every bite feels like a hug on a plate. This classic pie is more than just dessert—it’s a celebration of simple ingredients transformed through the magic of baking. Whether you’re craving a comforting treat on a rainy afternoon or planning to impress loved ones at a holiday gathering, this Homemade Apple Pie delivers. With a difficulty level marked as Intermediate, this recipe guides you through each step, helping you master flaky crusts and perfectly spiced apples. You’ll need about 30 minutes of active preparation, an hour in the oven, and another hour of rest before slicing into that warm, heartwarming creation. At around 400 calories per slice, it’s a memorable indulgence that pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Over the years, this recipe has become my go-to whenever I want to create a homemade dessert that feels both nostalgic and fresh. There’s something about the way tart and sweet apple slices mingle with a hint of nutmeg and cinnamon that instantly transports me back to crisp fall mornings in my grandmother’s kitchen. Each time I pull this pie from the oven, the golden crust crackles under the gentle nudge of a spatula, and I remember the curious faces of family members, eager for that first taste. It’s in those moments—seeing the steam swirl from each slice and hearing the satisfied “mmm” around the table—that I realize baking a classic apple pie is as much about sharing love as it is about following a recipe. So grab your rolling pin, dust off your mixing bowl, and let’s dive into the details of creating the perfect Homemade Apple Pie together!

KEY INGREDIENTS IN HOMEMADE APPLE PIE

Before diving into the mixing bowls and rolling pins, let’s get acquainted with the stars of our show. Each ingredient plays an essential role in balancing texture, flavor, and structure, ensuring that every slice of apple pie feels just right. From the sturdy framework of the crust to the juicy, tender apple filling, here’s what you’ll need:

• All-purpose flour

Provides the foundation for a tender, flaky crust. Its balanced protein content ensures the dough holds together while still creating delicate layers.

• Salt

Enhances the overall flavor of both crust and filling, balancing sweetness and bringing out the natural taste of the apples.

• Sugar

Sweetens the crust slightly and helps it brown beautifully, adding to that classic pie look and taste.

• Unsalted butter

Chopped into cold, small cubes and blended into the flour, it creates pockets of steam during baking, resulting in a light, flaky crust.

• Ice water

Brings the dough together without melting the butter, ensuring a tender, cohesive pastry that bakes up perfectly.

• Apples

The heart of the filling—choose a mix of tart and sweet varieties for depth of flavor. Peeled, cored, and sliced, they soften and release juices under the heat of the oven.

• Sugar (for filling)

Coats the apple slices, balancing their tartness with just the right amount of sweetness for a luscious interior.

• Flour (for filling)

Thickens the fruit juices released during baking, preventing a runny filling and ensuring each slice holds its shape.

• Ground cinnamon

Infuses the filling with a warm, familiar spice that complements the natural apple flavor.

• Ground nutmeg

Adds a hint of earthiness and spice, elevating the aroma and taste profile of the pie.

• Lemon juice

Provides a subtle zing that brightens the filling and prevents the apples from browning prematurely.

• Butter (for dotting)

Small knobs dotted over the filling melt into little pockets of richness, adding depth to every mouthful.

• Egg yolk

Mixed into a wash, it helps the top crust achieve a glossy, deep-golden finish.

• Milk

Combined with the egg yolk, it thins the wash so it brushes on smoothly and bakes evenly.

HOW TO MAKE HOMEMADE APPLE PIE

Ready to transform those ingredients into a heavenly dessert? The following steps will guide you through creating flaky crust, spiced apple filling, and a golden finish that will make your kitchen smell divine.

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar until evenly distributed. Add the chilled, diced butter and use a pastry blender (or your fingertips, two forks, or the blunt edges of knives) to work the butter into the dry ingredients. Aim for a coarse crumb texture—little pea-sized bits of butter should still be visible. Gradually drizzle in the ice water, starting with 6 tablespoons, and gently stir with a fork until the dough just comes together. Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape each into a flat disc, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.

2. While the dough rests, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Position a rack in the center of the oven for even baking.

3. In a separate large bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Ensure each slice is well coated with the spice mixture—this helps thicken the juices and infuse every bite with flavor.

4. Lightly flour your work surface and roll out one dough disc to a diameter slightly larger than your 9-inch pie pan. Gently transfer the dough to the pan, pressing it into the bottom and letting any excess hang over the edges.

5. Spoon the apple filling into the crust-lined pan, arranging the slices evenly. Dot the top of the filling with small pieces of butter to create ribbons of richness as the fruit bakes.

6. Roll out the second dough disc and carefully place it on top of the apples. Trim any excess, then fold and pinch the edges of the top and bottom crusts to seal. Use a sharp knife to cut slits in the top crust, allowing steam to escape and ensuring your pie doesn’t bubble over.

7. In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolk and milk to create an egg wash. Gently brush this mixture over the top crust—this step is key for that signature golden-brown sheen.

8. Bake the pie at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 35 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the apples are tender and the crust is deeply golden.

9. Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This resting period helps the filling set so each slice holds together beautifully.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR HOMEMADE APPLE PIE

When it comes to enjoying a freshly baked apple pie, presentation and accompaniments can take your dessert from delightful to unforgettable. Whether you’re serving it at a family dinner, a cozy gathering of friends, or simply indulging yourself after a long day, these four suggestions will help you elevate every heavenly bite:

• A la mode perfection

Serve a warm slice of pie topped with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the hot filling and cold, creamy ice cream creates a delicious play of textures and temperatures.

• Cloud-like whipped cream

Whip heavy cream with a touch of sugar and a drop of vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Dollop a cloud of this fresh whipped cream on each slice for an elegant, airy finish.

• Cheddar crust twist

For a nod to vintage traditions, sprinkle sharp cheddar cheese on the crust edges before baking. The savory cheese melts into the dough, offering a surprising but delightful counterpoint to the sweet filling.

• Warm spiced cider pairing

Complement your classic pie with a steamy mug of spiced apple cider or hot toddy. The warm spices echo the flavors in the pie, creating a cozy, autumn-inspired duo.

HOW TO STORE HOMEMADE APPLE PIE

Ensuring your apple pie stays as fresh, flaky, and flavorful as the day it came out of the oven is all about the right storage techniques. Whether you want to enjoy leftover slices the next day or save an entire pie for a special occasion, follow these proven methods for optimal results:

• Room temperature

If you plan to finish the pie within 24–48 hours, cover it loosely with plastic wrap or a pie saver dome and keep it on the counter. This method preserves the flaky crust and tender filling without chilling out the texture.

• Refrigeration

For longer storage (up to 5 days), wrap the cooled pie securely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. Chilling firm up the filling, helping you achieve clean slices. Allow it to sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before serving to soften.

• Freezer storage

To enjoy your pie months down the road, freeze it fully assembled (before baking) or after it’s cooled. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil, then label and date. When you’re ready, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 50–60 minutes, or thaw overnight and reheat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

• Reheating tips

For a just-baked taste, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or reheat a whole pie at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes. This revives the crispness of the crust and ensures the filling is soft and gooey once more.

CONCLUSION

Bringing together a tender, flaky crust and a perfectly spiced apple filling, this Homemade Apple Pie is every bit as heartwarming as it is delicious. We’ve covered all the essentials—from gathering and understanding the key ingredients to mastering each step of the process, and even offering creative serving suggestions and foolproof storage tips. Whether you’re an experienced baker or tackling an intermediate-level recipe for the first time, this guide is designed to walk you through with confidence. Feel free to print this article and save it in your favorite recipe binder or digital folder so you can revisit these comforting fall flavors whenever the mood strikes. You’ll also find a handy FAQ below to troubleshoot common questions and enhance your baking journey.

Now that you have all the tools and knowledge you need, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get baking! I can’t wait to hear how your pie turns out—did your crust achieve that perfect golden hue? Did the filling come together just right? Please share any comments, questions, or feedback below. Your experiences help build a community of home cooks who learn and grow together. If you try the recipe and have a tip or two of your own, let us know. Baking is all about experimentation, discovery, and, most importantly, sharing joy around the table. Happy baking!

Print Recipe

Homemade Apple Pie

Author: Rebecca Hughes Courses: Dessert

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 30 mins Cook Time 1 hr Rest Time 1 hr Total Time 2 hrs 30 mins

Calories: 400

Description

This homemade apple pie features a buttery, flaky crust filled with sweet, spiced apples. It's the perfect dessert to enjoy warm, topped with ice cream.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp salt

• 1 tbsp sugar

• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced

• 6 to 8 tbsp ice water

• 6 to 7 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (about 6 medium apples)

• ³⁄₄ cup sugar

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• ¹⁄₄ tsp ground cinnamon

• ¹⁄₄ tsp ground nutmeg

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 1 tbsp butter

• 1 egg yolk

• 1 tbsp milk

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the diced butter and use a pastry blender or your fingertips to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the ice water, starting with 6 tablespoons, a little at a time, stirring with a fork until the mixture forms a ball. Divide the dough in half, shape into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
3. In a large bowl, mix sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until apples are well coated.
4. Roll out one of the dough discs on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Place the rolled dough in the pie pan, letting the excess dough hang over the edge.
5. Spoon the apple filling into the dough-lined pie pan, distributing the slices evenly. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.
6. Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Trim and fold the edges to seal the crust. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
7. In a small bowl, mix the egg yolk and milk. Brush the mixture over the top crust to promote a golden brown finish.
8. Bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven. Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the apples are soft and the crust is golden.
9. Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Note

• If you don’t have a pastry blender, use two forks or knives to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Try using a variety of apples for a more complex flavor profile.
• If the crust edges begin to brown too much during baking, cover them with foil to prevent burning.
• Serve the pie with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an added treat.
• Use any leftover pie dough to make decorative shapes for the top crust.

Keywords: apple pie, homemade dessert, baking, fall recipes, classic pie, comfort food