How to Make Apple Pie from Scratch – Our Best Apple Pie Recipe!

There’s nothing quite like the smell of homemade apple pie wafting through your kitchen! This classic dessert not only brings back sweet childhood memories but also encapsulates the essence of fall with its warm spices and tender apples. Today, I’m excited to guide you through how to make apple pie from scratch, using the best apple pie recipe that will have your family begging for seconds!

A Slice of Tradition

Apple pie is more than just dessert; it’s a slice of Americana. Often served at family gatherings, holidays, or cozy fall evenings, this beloved pie is a staple that many memories are baked into. The combination of crisp apples, aromatic cinnamon, and buttery crust creates a harmony that feels like home. When you’re looking for an easy apple pie recipe to impress your friends, this is the one you need!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for our best apple pie recipe. This easy recipe calls for simple ingredients that you might already have in your pantry!

For the Crust:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling:

• 6 to 8 apples (about 3 pounds) – I recommend Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness.
• ¾ cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons butter, to dot

For Garnish:

• 1 egg, beaten (optional, for egg wash)
• Sugar for sprinkling (optional)

Instructions

Follow these steps for the best apple pie recipe that will set your taste buds alight!

Step 1: Make the Pie Crust

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Cut in Butter: Add the chilled, diced butter to the flour mixture, using a pastry cutter or your fingers, until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Ice Water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, just until the dough comes together. Split it into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

1. Slice the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges.
2. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine apples with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough to fit your pie pan. Transfer it to the pan, letting the excess hang over the edges.
3. Fill the Pie: Pour the apple mixture into the prepared crust. Dot with butter.
4. Cover with Top Crust: Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Cut slits for steam to escape. Crimp the edges to seal.

Step 4: Bake the Pie

1. Egg Wash: Optional – brush the crust with beaten egg and sprinkle sugar for a golden finish.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are soft and the crust is golden brown.
3. Cool & Serve: Let your apple pie cool for at least two hours before slicing.

Tips and Variations

• Apple Variety: Mix different types of apples for added flavor and texture.
• Spice It Up: Feel free to add in a pinch of allspice or cloves for a little extra warmth.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat!

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to make apple pie from scratch, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get to baking! This warm, comforting dessert will surely become a cherished recipe in your home. If you try our best apple pie recipe, we’d love to hear how it turned out! Snap a photo and share it with us or leave a comment below. Happy baking!