Best Ever Apple Pie Recipe
A warm slice of apple pie is one of the most comforting desserts you can make at home. It brings together the sweetness of fresh apples, the warmth of spices, and the perfectly flaky crust that makes every bite memorable. This classic dessert has been enjoyed for generations, and while there are dozens of variations, nothing compares to a simple homemade apple pie prepared with care and baked until golden.
What makes this recipe special is the balance of flavors and textures. The apples stay tender but not mushy, the filling becomes rich and syrupy, and the crust holds everything together while staying crisp. Whether you serve it with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or enjoy it plain and warm, this apple pie is the kind of dessert that feels like home.
One of the reasons this pie turns out so well is the use of two kinds of apples. Mixing tart apples with sweeter ones gives the filling a deeper flavor and prevents it from becoming overly sweet. The spices are warm but not overwhelming, enhancing the natural flavor of the fruit.
This recipe is also flexible. You can use homemade pie dough if you enjoy working with pastry, or you can use store-bought dough to save time. Either way, the filling transforms the entire dessert into something unforgettable. The aroma alone will fill your kitchen with a sense of comfort.
Below is the full recipe with detailed instructions to help you make the best apple pie every time.
Ingredients
For the filling:
6 cups thinly sliced apples (a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works best)
3⁄4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1⁄4 teaspoon nutmeg
1⁄4 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the crust:
2 pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
1 egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water for brushing
Instructions
Start by preparing the apples. Peel them, remove the cores, and slice them thinly so they soften evenly when baked. Place them in a bowl and toss with sugar, lemon juice, flour or cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla. Allow the mixture to sit for at least ten minutes. This helps the apples release some of their juices and creates a syrupy base for the filling.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the first pie crust and place it into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently against the sides.
Pour the apple filling into the crust, spreading the slices evenly. Add the small pieces of butter across the top of the apples. The butter melts and creates a smoother, richer filling.
Place the second crust on top. You can lay it on whole and cut a few slits for ventilation, or you can make a lattice pattern for a more decorative finish. Seal the edges by crimping with your fingers or a fork.
Brush the top crust lightly with the egg wash. This gives the pie its golden finish in the oven.
Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes. After that, reduce the heat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for another 30 to 40 minutes. The pie is ready when the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling through the slits.
Once baked, allow the pie to cool for at least two hours. This step helps the filling set so it slices cleanly. The longer it rests, the more the flavors develop and blend together.
Tips for a Perfect Apple Pie
Choose a mix of apples. Tart apples hold their shape and provide balance, while sweeter apples add natural depth. This combination gives the pie its classic flavor.
Avoid overly thin or overly thick slices. Even slices help the apples soften at the same rate, keeping the pie from having hard or mushy pieces.
Let the filling rest before baking. This helps the apples release juices that mix with the flour or cornstarch, creating a smooth, syrupy texture once baked.
Use a baking sheet. Apple filling can bubble over, so placing the pie on a sheet prevents it from dripping into the oven.
Do not skip the cooling step. Cutting too early results in a runny filling. Patience makes the pie cleaner and tastier.
Serving Suggestions
Homemade apple pie tastes delicious warm, but it is equally good at room temperature. A scoop of vanilla ice cream is the classic pairing, melting slightly into the warm filling and creating a perfect balance of hot and cold.
Whipped cream is another option if you prefer something lighter. For a rustic approach, simply dust the top with powdered sugar. Some also enjoy drizzling a little caramel sauce over each slice for an extra layer of sweetness.
How to Store Apple Pie
If you have leftovers, cover the pie loosely with foil or plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to five days. You can warm slices in the oven for a few minutes to restore the crispness of the crust.
Apple pie also freezes beautifully. Wrap each slice tightly and freeze for up to three months. When ready to serve, let it thaw briefly, then warm it in the oven.
Final Thoughts
This apple pie is the kind of dessert that brings people together. Whether you make it for a holiday, weekend treat, or special gathering, it always feels comforting and nostalgic. The warm spices, tender apples, and flaky crust create a dessert that tastes like tradition and home.