Best Recipe for Apple Pie

If you’re looking for a comforting dessert that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, then you’ve come to the right place! This is my go-to recipe for the Best Recipe for Apple Pie, and I can’t wait to share it with you. There’s something magical about the aroma of apples and spices filling your kitchen as this pie bakes. It’s perfect for family gatherings, cozy evenings at home, or even just to treat yourself after a long day.

What makes this apple pie so special? It’s not just any ordinary pie; it features a double crust that holds in all that deliciously cooked filling. The flavors are brightened with lemon and perfectly spiced to bring out the natural sweetness of the apples. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and straightforward: You don’t need to be a baking expert to pull this off! The steps are simple, making it perfect for beginners.
• Perfect texture: Cooking the filling before baking means you’ll get tender apples without the mushiness often found in pies.
• Family favorite: This pie has a way of bringing everyone together. It’s always a hit at potlucks and holiday gatherings.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare the filling ahead of time or even freeze the assembled pie for later!
• Deliciously aromatic: The blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and fresh apples creates an irresistible scent that will draw everyone into your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This recipe uses simple, wholesome items that you likely already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to make the Best Recipe for 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

What I love about this apple pie recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to play around with these variations to make it your own:

• Mix up the apples: Use different varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for unique flavor profiles.
• Add some crunch: Toss in some chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for an added texture.
• Try different spices: Experiment with ginger or allspice to give your filling an exciting twist.
• Go sweet or savory: Add a pinch of sea salt to balance out the sweetness, or incorporate savory herbs like thyme for an unexpected flavor.

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 5 pounds—approximately 11 large apples. I love using a mix of Granny Smith, Gala, and Golden Delicious because they provide a delightful blend of tartness and sweetness.

Step 2: Make the Filling

In a high-sided skillet, zest some lemon peel into it. Then squeeze in juice from half a lemon. This step is crucial because the acidity helps brighten up the flavors while preventing your sliced apples from browning too quickly.

Step 3: Prepare Your Apples

Peel and slice your apples into thin pieces—about 1/8 inch thick works well. I like to peel one apple at a time so it doesn’t brown before I add it to the skillet with the lemon juice. Stir occasionally to coat them evenly; this little trick keeps them fresh-looking!

Step 4: Cook the Filling

Once all your apples are ready in the pan over medium heat, it’s time to add all those lovely spices: brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom if you’re using it. Gently stir everything together until it’s well mixed but be careful not to break up those beautiful apple slices!

Step 5: Simmer Away

Cover your skillet with a lid but stick around! Set a timer for 20 minutes and stir every few minutes. We want those apples tender but still holding their shape—perfectly fork-tender is what we’re going for here.

Step 6: Cool Down Your Filling

Remove from heat and stir in some vanilla extract; this adds amazing flavor! Transfer your cooked apple filling onto a half sheet pan so it can cool completely in either the fridge or freezer—this will take about 30 minutes.

Step 7: Assemble Your Pie

Roll out your homemade double pie crust into a deep 9-inch pie dish—with some excess hanging over the edges—and scrape all that chilled filling into it. Don’t leave behind any gooey goodness!

Step 8: Top It Off

Cover the filled pie with another layer of crust—whether it’s lattice-style or just laid over whole—it’ll taste delicious either way! Remember to vent by poking holes if you’re not doing a lattice top.

Step 9: Chill Again

For extra flaky perfection, pop your assembled pie back into the fridge or freezer for another 20-30 minutes while you preheat your oven.

Step 10: Bake Away!

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Brush that gorgeous crust with milk or beaten egg (or both!) right before placing it in. The milk will help it brown nicely while egg gives that glossy finish we all love.

Step 11: Keep an Eye on It

Bake for about 15 minutes until golden around the edges. Then reduce heat to 350°F and cover loosely with foil—this protects those edges from burning while ensuring everything cooks evenly.

Step 12: Final Bake Time

Return it back into the oven for another 40–45 minutes at that lower temperature until bubbling gently in the center and golden brown overall.

Step 13: Let It Cool

Patience is key! Allow your masterpiece to cool on a wire rack for about four hours before slicing; I know it’s hard but trust me—you want those juices set just right.

Once cooled completely, serve up slices warm with vanilla ice cream or caramel drizzle on top—a true treat! Enjoy every bite of this homemade delight; it’s sure to become one of your favorites too!

Pro Tips for Making Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Making the Best Homemade Apple Pie is all about embracing the process and having fun in the kitchen! Here are some pro tips to help you achieve pie perfection:

• Choose the right apples: A mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Gala, ensures a balanced flavor and texture. Tart apples hold their shape better during baking, while sweet varieties add natural sweetness.

• Cook your filling: Pre-cooking the apple filling helps to eliminate excess moisture, preventing a soggy crust. This step ensures your filling is fork-tender but still holds its shape when baked.

• Chill your dough: After assembling your pie, chilling it before baking helps create that flaky crust we all love. Cold dough bakes up beautifully, resulting in a pie that has the perfect texture.

• Use a foil shield: Protecting the edges of your pie with foil during baking prevents them from burning. This allows the filling to cook evenly without over-baking the crust.

• Be patient while cooling: Allowing your pie to cool completely before serving is crucial for setting the filling. If you cut into it too soon, you risk a messy slice!

How to Serve Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Serving up this delightful apple pie can be as simple or as fancy as you’d like! Here are some ideas to elevate your presentation and make it even more enjoyable.

Garnishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on top of warm apple pie creates a heavenly contrast of temperatures and textures.
• Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy, airy touch that complements the rich flavors of the pie beautifully.
• Caramel Drizzle: A drizzle of caramel sauce enhances sweetness and adds an extra layer of indulgence—perfect for those special occasions!

Side Dishes

• Cheddar Cheese: A classic pairing, sharp cheddar cheese provides a savory contrast to the sweetness of apple pie. Just a small slice on the side can elevate your dessert experience.
• Fresh Fruit Salad: Lighten up your meal with a refreshing fruit salad. The vibrant colors and natural sweetness of seasonal fruits make for a perfect balance alongside your rich pie.
• Coffee or Tea: Serving hot beverages such as coffee or tea not only warms up your guests but also enhances the flavors of dessert, making each bite even more enjoyable.
• Cinnamon Sugar Biscotti: For an extra treat, serve some crunchy biscotti on the side. Their nutty flavor pairs wonderfully with apple pie and provides a delightful textural contrast.

Now that you have all these tips and serving suggestions at hand, you’re ready to impress family and friends with your fabulous apple pie! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Best Recipe for Apple Pie is perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the filling in advance or even bake the pie ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover apple pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with plastic wrap.
• After 2 days, transfer it to the refrigerator to extend its freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze unbaked pies, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For baked pies, ensure they are completely cooled before wrapping and freezing. They can also be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat a whole pie, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• For individual slices, microwave on high for about 30-60 seconds or until heated through.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delicious recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries:

Can I use any type of apples in the Best Recipe for Apple Pie?

Absolutely! While a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith, Gala, and Golden Delicious works wonderfully, feel free to experiment with your favorites!

How do I prevent my apple pie from being too watery?

Cooking the apple filling before baking helps release excess moisture. Make sure to cool the filling completely before adding it to the crust; this also helps achieve that perfect texture.

What is the best way to store my apple pie after baking?

For optimal freshness, store your apple pie at room temperature covered with plastic wrap for up to two days. After that, move it to the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Best Recipe for Apple Pie as much as I do! It’s a delightful treat that brings comfort and joy, whether enjoyed solo or shared with loved ones. Remember, every slice is a little piece of happiness. Treat yourself and those around you—you deserve it!