Easy Apple Pie: 5 Irresistible Steps to Homemade Perfection

Name: Easy Apple Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, very cold and cut into ½-inch cubes; ½ cup ice water, plus more if needed; 6-8 medium apples (mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp/Fuji), peeled, cored, and sliced ¼-inch thick; ½ cup granulated sugar; ¼ cup packed light brown sugar; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour or cornstarch (for thickening); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; Pinch of ground cloves (optional); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces; 1 large egg yolk, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash); 1 tablespoon coarse sugar, for sprinkling

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There are some smells that instantly transport you back in time, and for me, the aroma of a freshly baked apple pie bubbling in the oven is one of them. It takes me straight to my grandma's kitchen, where flour dusted every surface and a symphony of sweet spices filled the air. As a child, I'd watch, mesmerized, as she effortlessly transformed simple ingredients into a masterpiece. While her methods seemed complex back then, I've since inherited her wisdom – and her simplified techniques – to bring you what I truly believe is the most delightful and Easy Apple Pie you'll ever bake. This recipe isn't just about apples and crust; it's about comfort, tradition, and creating memories without the stress. Forget overly complicated steps; this is the real deal, designed for bakers of all levels to achieve golden, flaky perfection every single time. And if you're feeling adventurous with your baking, don't miss my journey to The Best Chocolate Chip Cookie Recipe Ever for another truly rewarding experience in the kitchen.

Table of Contents

Why This Easy Apple Pie Recipe is a Must-Try

This isn't just another apple pie recipe; it's *the* Easy Apple Pie recipe that will become your go-to for every occasion. Here's why:

Effortlessly Flaky Crust: Even if you're new to pie making, my method for the pie crust ensures a tender, buttery, and incredibly flaky result without all the fuss. We're talking golden-brown perfection that crumbles just right.
Perfectly Spiced Apple Filling: The balance of tart and sweet apples combined with warm spices creates a filling that’s neither too mushy nor too firm, but perfectly tender and bursting with classic flavor. It's the hallmark of a truly great Easy Apple Pie.
Simple, Wholesome Ingredients: You won't find any exotic or hard-to-find ingredients here. Just pantry staples and fresh apples, making this Easy Apple Pie accessible and budget-friendly.
A Crowd-Pleaser Every Time: From holiday gatherings to a simple Sunday dessert, an Easy Apple Pie always hits the spot. It’s comforting, nostalgic, and universally loved. Prepare for rave reviews!

Key Ingredient Notes for Your Easy Apple Pie

The magic of a truly delicious Easy Apple Pie lies in the quality and preparation of a few key ingredients. Don't skimp on these!

The Apples: A Symphony of Flavor

Choosing the right apples is paramount for an outstanding Easy Apple Pie. I always recommend using a mix of varieties to get the best balance of sweetness, tartness, and texture. My go-to combination is:

Granny Smith: These are non-negotiable for their firm texture and tartness, which provides a crucial counterpoint to the pie's sweetness. They hold their shape beautifully during baking.
Honeycrisp or Fuji: These add a lovely sweetness and another layer of texture. They're crisp and flavorful, complementing the Granny Smiths perfectly. You could also use Braeburn or Golden Delicious.

Aim for about 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and sliced evenly. The slices shouldn't be too thin, or they'll turn to mush; about 1/4-inch thick is ideal for your Easy Apple Pie.

The Butter: The Secret to Flaky Crust

For the pie crust, cold, unsalted butter is your best friend. Why unsalted? Because it allows you to control the amount of salt in your recipe. Why cold? When cold butter melts in the oven, it releases steam, creating pockets of air that result in that coveted flaky texture. If your butter gets too warm, pop it back in the fridge for a bit before working with it. This makes all the difference in an truly Easy Apple Pie.

The Spices: Warmth and Aroma

While cinnamon is the star of any Easy Apple Pie, a pinch of other warm spices elevates the flavor profile. I typically use a blend of:

Cinnamon: The dominant flavor, offering warmth and sweetness.
Nutmeg: Adds a subtle, earthy depth that pairs wonderfully with apples.
A tiny pinch of cloves or allspice: Use sparingly, as these can be overpowering, but they add a delightful complexity.

Freshly grated nutmeg is always superior if you have it!

Easy Apple Pie Preparation — My Grandma's Secret for the Best Easy Apple Pie 4

Step-by-Step Guide with Pro Tips for the Best Easy Apple Pie

Making a delicious Easy Apple Pie is simpler than you think. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a masterpiece ready to impress!

Making the Perfect Pie Crust (The Easiest Way!)

A good Easy Apple Pie starts with a great crust. Don't be intimidated!

Pro Tip for Flaky Crust: Keep everything cold! Cold butter, cold water, and minimal handling will ensure a tender, flaky crust for your Easy Apple Pie.

You can use a store-bought crust to make it an even easier apple pie, but trust me, homemade is worth it. For homemade, you'll combine flour and salt, then cut in very cold butter until pea-sized crumbs form. Gradually add ice water, mixing until just combined. Divide the dough, flatten into discs, wrap, and chill for at least 30 minutes. This chilling step is essential for an Easy Apple Pie crust that rolls out smoothly and bakes perfectly.

Preparing the Irresistible Apple Filling

While your dough chills, get started on the star of your Easy Apple Pie: the filling!

Pro Tip for No Gaps: Don't be afraid to mound the apples high in the center. They'll cook down, creating a beautiful, full pie without a sunken middle.

Peel, core, and slice your apples. In a large bowl, combine them with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of lemon juice. The lemon juice brightens the flavors and prevents browning. Add a tablespoon or two of flour or cornstarch to thicken the juices as it bakes. This ensures your Easy Apple Pie isn't watery.

Assembling Your Easy Apple Pie

Now for the fun part – putting it all together!

Roll out one disc of chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer it to your 9-inch pie plate. Trim the edges, leaving about a 1/2-inch overhang. Pour the apple filling into the crust, mounding it slightly in the center. Dot the top of the apples with small pieces of butter. This adds richness and helps the apples caramelize beautifully in your Easy Apple Pie.

Roll out the second disc of dough. You can place it directly over the filling, cut slits for steam, or get creative with a lattice top. Seal the edges by folding the overhang under and crimping with your fingers or a fork. Brush the top crust with an egg wash (one egg yolk mixed with a tablespoon of water) and sprinkle with a tablespoon of coarse sugar for a beautiful, golden, and sparkling finish on your Easy Apple Pie.

Baking to Golden Perfection

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any potential drips. Bake for 15 minutes at this higher temperature to set the crust, then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for another 45-60 minutes, or until the crust is deeply golden brown and the filling is bubbling thickly. If the crust edges start to brown too quickly, loosely cover them with aluminum foil. Your Easy Apple Pie is nearly ready!

Pro Tip for Doneness: You can test if the apples are tender by inserting a thin knife or skewer through a vent in the top crust. If it goes in easily, your Easy Apple Pie is ready!

Allow the pie to cool completely on a wire rack for at least 3-4 hours before slicing. This allows the filling to set properly, preventing a runny mess. Patience is key for the perfect slice of Easy Apple Pie.

Variations & Serving Suggestions for Your Easy Apple Pie

While a classic Easy Apple Pie is perfect on its own, here are a few ideas to switch things up or serve it in style:

Caramel Drizzle: A warm caramel sauce drizzled over a slice of pie adds an extra layer of decadence.
Cheddar Cheese: A traditional pairing in some regions, a thin slice of sharp cheddar cheese alongside your warm Easy Apple Pie offers a surprisingly delightful savory contrast.
Ice Cream or Whipped Cream: A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream (à la mode!) or a dollop of fresh whipped cream is a timeless classic that perfectly complements the warm, spiced apples.
Nutty Topping: For the top crust, consider sprinkling chopped pecans or walnuts along with the coarse sugar for added texture and flavor.
Brandied Apples: For an adult twist, add a tablespoon or two of brandy or bourbon to the apple filling mixture before baking.
Crumb Topping: If you prefer a streusel-style topping, replace the top crust with a mixture of flour, brown sugar, oats, and cold butter rubbed together until crumbly.

No matter how you serve it, this Easy Apple Pie is sure to be a hit. If you're looking for another comforting classic to bake for the holidays or any time of year, my recipe for The Ultimate Creamy Pumpkin Pie Recipe You'll Adore This Holiday Season is a must-try.

Nutrition Information

Here's a breakdown of the estimated nutrition information per serving for this delicious Easy Apple Pie:

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	410 kcal
Total Fat	20g
Saturated Fat	12g
Trans Fat	0.5g
Unsaturated Fat	6g
Cholesterol	45mg
Sodium	280mg
Total Carbohydrates	55g
Fiber	4g
Sugar	30g
Protein	4g
Serving Size	1 slice (approx. 1/8th of pie)

Note: These are estimated values and can vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.

Baking this Easy Apple Pie has truly been a heartwarming experience, bringing back cherished memories of my grandma's kitchen. It's more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of home, a testament to simple pleasures, and an invitation to create your own new traditions. I hope this Easy Apple Pie recipe inspires you to get into the kitchen and fill your home with the intoxicating aroma of freshly baked goodness. Don't be afraid to make it your own, but most importantly, enjoy every single bite. Happy baking!

Once cooled, your Easy Apple Pie can be stored at room temperature for up to two days, or covered in the refrigerator for up to five days. For best results, use airtight containers, like these Basics Glass Food Storage options, to keep it fresh and delicious.

FAQs

What are the best apples to use for an Easy Apple Pie?

For the best Easy Apple Pie, I recommend using a mix of apples. Granny Smith apples provide necessary tartness and hold their shape well, while sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji add a delightful balance of flavor and texture. A combination ensures a complex and satisfying filling.

How do I prevent my Easy Apple Pie crust from getting soggy?

To prevent a soggy crust, ensure your pie filling isn't too wet. Use a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch in the apple mixture to absorb excess liquid during baking. Also, pre-baking your bottom crust (blind baking) for about 10-15 minutes before adding the filling can help, though it's often not necessary for this Easy Apple Pie recipe if you follow the other steps.

Can I make this Easy Apple Pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can! You can prepare the pie dough a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. The assembled, unbaked Easy Apple Pie can also be covered and refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. Once baked, the pie will stay fresh at room temperature for up to two days, or covered in the refrigerator for up to five days.

What's the secret to a super flaky pie crust for this Easy Apple Pie?

The secret to a super flaky crust for your Easy Apple Pie is keeping all your ingredients, especially the butter and water, very cold. Cut the butter into small cubes and work quickly to minimize handling the dough, which can warm the butter. When the cold butter melts in the hot oven, it creates steam, which puffs up the dough layers, resulting in that irresistible flakiness.