The scent of cinnamon mingling with crisp apples whisked me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where laughter filled the air and the warmth of a fresh-baked pie hugged my heart. This Classic American Apple Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a cherished tradition that evokes memories of family gatherings and the simple joy of homemade treats. With its golden, flaky crust and a sweet-tart filling, this recipe is not only a crowd-pleaser but also offers the bonus of making your home feel wonderfully cozy. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a curious novice, the delightful process of crafting this comforting classic is sure to fill your spirit. Are you ready to embrace the deliciousness of this timeless treat? Why is Apple Pie So Beloved? Nostalgic Flavors: This Classic American Apple Pie evokes warm memories of family gatherings and cherished moments in the kitchen. Easy to Master: You don’t need to be a pro baker; anyone can capture its comforting essence. Versatile Options: Feel free to add your twist with caramel or cranberries! Perfect for Sharing: It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser, ideal for potlucks or holiday feasts. Store Easily: Bake ahead and enjoy it for days; it only gets better! Dive into this heartwarming experience, and don’t forget to try it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or pair it with this delightful Crock Pot Brown for a full meal celebration. Classic American Apple Pie Ingredients For the Crust • All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and flaky texture; substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option. • Salt – Enhances the overall flavor of the crust and filling; use kosher salt for best results. • Sugar – Adds sweetness to both the crust and filling, aiding in caramelization; replace with brown sugar for a deeper flavor. • Unsalted Butter (chilled and diced) – Key for a flaky crust; could use vegan butter for a dairy-free version. • Ice Water – Helps to bind the dough while keeping it cold for flakiness; adding one tablespoon at a time gives better dough control. For the Filling • Apples (mix of Granny Smith and Fuji) – Offers a balance of tart and sweet flavors while holding shape during baking; variants like Honeycrisp also work well. • Ground Cinnamon – Adds classic warm spice notes; substitute with allspice or pumpkin pie spice for a different twist. • Ground Nutmeg – Provides depth; use sparingly as it’s potent, or leave out if desired. • Unsalted Butter (for filling) – Adds richness to the apple filling. For the Topping • Egg Yolk and Milk – Creates a glossy finish on the crust; substitute with plant-based milk for a vegan alternative. • Coarse Sugar – For sprinkling on top to add sweetness and crunch; omit for less sweetness. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Classic American Apple Pie Step 1: Prepare the Dough In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Use a pastry cutter to cut in 1 cup of chilled, diced unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour. Step 2: Preheat the Oven While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This step is crucial for achieving that golden, flaky crust on your Classic American Apple Pie. As the oven heats, you can roll out the first disc of dough to fit your pie plate, which is about 12 inches in diameter. Flour your work surface lightly to prevent sticking. Step 3: Roll the Dough Take the first disc of chilled dough and roll it out into a 12-inch circle. Aim for an even thickness of about 1/8 inch. Once rolled out, carefully transfer the dough to your pie plate, gently pressing it into the sides. Trim any excess dough hanging over the edges, leaving about a half-inch for crimping later. Step 4: Prepare the Apple Filling Peel, core, and slice about 6 cups of a mix of Granny Smith and Fuji apples. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with ¾ cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the apples to release some juices. Step 5: Assemble the Pie Fill the prepared crust with the apple mixture, ensuring an even distribution of apples. Dot the filling with 2 tablespoons of chilled, diced butter for added richness. Roll out the second disc of dough and cover the apple filling, sealing the edges tightly by crimping them. Use your fingers or a fork to create a decorative edge. Step 6: Add Vents and Glaze With a sharp knife, carefully cut several slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 egg yolk and 1 tablespoon of milk, then brush this mixture over the crust for a beautiful golden finish. Sprinkle coarse sugar on top for extra sweetness and crunch. Step 7: Bake the Pie Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. After that, reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 35 to 45 minutes. The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly and tender. Step 8: Cool Before Serving Once baked, remove the Classic American Apple Pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This cooling time allows the filling to set properly, making for cleaner slices. Slice and serve warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly comforting dessert. Classic American Apple Pie Variations Embrace your creativity with these delicious twists to the classic recipe that dance in delightful harmony with the traditional flavors! Dairy-Free: Use vegan butter and plant-based milk to easily create a dairy-free version without sacrificing flavor or texture. You’ll still enjoy that golden, flaky crust while keeping it suitable for everyone. Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten sensitivities. Be sure to check that your blend includes xanthan gum for a similar texture and hold. Caramel Swirl: Drizzle warm caramel sauce into the apple filling for a decadent addition that adds richness and sweetness. This will elevate your pie to a whole new level of indulgence! Nutty Crunch: Fold in half a cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple mixture for a delightful crunch. The nuts pair beautifully with the spiced apples, giving a lovely texture to every bite. Cranberry Delight: Add a cup of fresh or dried cranberries for a tangy twist that complements the sweetness of the apples. This addition not only brightens the flavor but adds gorgeous color, too! Spice It Up: If you love heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of ground ginger for subtly spicy back notes under the warm cinnamon. This variation brings a fun kick that surprises the taste buds. Jazzy Toppings: Instead of just coarse sugar, sprinkle a mix of cinnamon sugar atop the crust before baking for a sweet, aromatic finish. You’ll catch the scent as it’s baking, making it hard to resist! Serving Suggestion: Try serving a slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or even a luscious dollop of whipped cream. Pair it with your favorite baked ham, such as this delightful Crock Pot Brown, for a meal that feels like a hug at the dinner table. Whichever variation you choose, you’re sure to find a new family favorite! Expert Tips for Classic American Apple Pie Chill Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients, especially the butter, are chilled. This is key for achieving a flaky crust—warm butter melts, leading to a dense texture. Watch the Baking Time: If the crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil to prevent burning while the filling cooks through. Let It Rest: Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours after baking. This resting time lets the filling set properly for cleaner, more appealing slices. Perfect Steam Vents: Use a sharp knife to cut slits in the top crust for effective steam escape; this also gives your pie a beautiful design. Testing Doneness: The pie is ready when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling up through the vents, signaling all the flavors are melded in your Classic American Apple Pie. Storage Tips for Classic American Apple Pie Room Temperature: Store loosely covered with foil for short-term storage—allowing the flavors to meld—but consume within 2 days for best taste. Fridge: Place in an airtight container to keep fresh for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the oven to restore the crust’s flakiness. Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices or the whole pie tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. It’s freezer-friendly for up to 1 month. Reheating: To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warm throughout. Enjoy your Classic American Apple Pie warm! What to Serve with Classic American Apple Pie? The aroma of freshly baked pie fills your home, inviting loved ones to gather around for a heartwarming meal. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creamy sweetness melts into the warm filling, creating a delicious contrast. Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop on top brings a fluffy texture that balances the pie’s richness beautifully. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle this decadent sauce over slices for an added layer of flavor that enhances the sweet-tart apples. Cheddar Cheese: Surprising yet delightful, a slice of sharp cheddar adds an interesting savory note that complements the sweetness perfectly. Warm Spiced Cider: The comforting flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg echo the pie, wrapping everyone in a cozy embrace. Coffee or Espresso: The bitterness of coffee cuts through the sweet pie, making for a delightful pairing after a satisfying meal. Chai Tea: With its aromatic spices, chai brings a warm element that nicely contrasts the dessert’s sweet flavors. Chocolate Sauce: For a fun twist, drizzle over each slice for an indulgent chocolate experience that will thrill dessert lovers. Pumpkin Pie: Embrace the fall spirit—serve a slice of pumpkin pie alongside for variety on a festive table. Make Ahead Options These Classic American Apple Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the pie crust up to 24 hours in advance by rolling it out, placing it in the pie plate, and covering it tightly with plastic wrap in the fridge. The apple filling can be prepped a day ahead as well—just combine your sliced apples with sugar and spices, and refrigerate them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply fill the crust with the prepared filling, cover with the second crust, and follow the baking instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy the same delightful taste of fresh-baked apple pie with minimal effort! Classic American Apple Pie Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right apples for my pie? Absolutely! A mix of Granny Smith and Fuji apples works wonderfully, offering a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. Look for apples that are firm and free from dark spots. Honeycrisp is also a fantastic alternative; it holds its shape and adds a lovely sweetness. What’s the best way to store my Classic American Apple Pie? For short-term storage, cover the pie loosely with foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you need to store it longer, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. I often make a pie at the start of the week for my family’s enjoyment, and this method keeps it fresh! Can I freeze my apple pie, and if so, how? Yes, you can! For freezing, wrap the entire pie tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 1 month. To reheat, simply place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, waiting for that comforting aroma to fill your kitchen again! What should I do if my pie crust is burning while baking? Very good question! If you notice your crust browning too quickly, don’t panic. Just cover the edges with aluminum foil to shield them from direct heat while allowing the filling to cook through. Keeping a close watch during the last 15-20 minutes of baking usually helps! Is this recipe allergy-friendly? While the Classic American Apple Pie contains dairy and gluten, there are easy substitutions! You can use gluten-free flour for the crust and vegan butter for a dairy-free option. Always double-check your ingredient labels, especially for any allergens you or your guests may have. How long should I let my pie cool before serving? Let your pie rest for at least 2 hours after baking. This cooling time allows the filling to set properly, making it easier to slice and serve. I usually take this opportunity to whip up some fresh whipped cream or scoop out some vanilla ice cream for serving—it’s the perfect treat! Classic American Apple Pie: Your Heartwarming Family Classic Classic American Apple Pie evokes cherished memories of family gatherings with its golden flaky crust and sweet-tart filling. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrCooling Time 2 hours hrsTotal Time 3 hours hrs 30 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Crust2.5 cups All-Purpose Flour Substitute with gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free option.1 teaspoon Salt Use kosher salt for best results.1 tablespoon Sugar Replace with brown sugar for deeper flavor.1 cup Unsalted Butter (chilled and diced) Could use vegan butter for a dairy-free version.For the Filling6 cups Apples (mix of Granny Smith and Fuji) Variants like Honeycrisp also work well.0.75 cups Sugar2 tablespoons Flour1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Substitute with allspice or pumpkin pie spice if desired.2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (for filling)For the Topping1 tablespoon Milk Substitute with plant-based milk for a vegan alternative. Equipment mixing bowlPastry cutterRolling PinPie PlateovenWire Rack Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Classic American Apple PieIn a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Use a pastry cutter to cut in 1 cup of chilled, diced unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 1 hour.While the dough chills, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).Take the first disc of chilled dough and roll it out into a 12-inch circle, aiming for an even thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer the dough to your pie plate.Peel, core, and slice about 6 cups of a mix of Granny Smith and Fuji apples. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with ¾ cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of flour, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and a hint of nutmeg. Let sit for about 10 minutes.Fill the prepared crust with the apple mixture, dotting the filling with 2 tablespoons of chilled, diced butter. Roll out the second disc of dough and cover the apple filling, sealing the edges by crimping.Cut several slits in the top crust for steam escape. Whisk together 1 egg yolk and 1 tablespoon of milk, then brush over the crust. Sprinkle with coarse sugar.Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes. Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 35 to 45 minutes.Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 2gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 40mgSodium: 200mgPotassium: 130mgFiber: 2gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 1mg NotesChill all ingredients for a flaky crust. Cover edges with aluminum foil if browning too quickly. Enjoy with vanilla ice cream. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
