Apple Pies; Simple to Prepare and Very Tasty

Apple pie is one of those timeless desserts that never goes out of style. The warm aroma of baked apples, cinnamon, and buttery crust filling the kitchen is enough to bring back fond memories of family gatherings, cozy autumn evenings, or festive holiday meals. While some people believe that making apple pie is complicated, the truth is that with a few simple steps and the right tips, you can create a pie that is both easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make a perfect apple pie at home — from choosing the right apples to mastering the flaky crust, plus tips, tricks, and serving ideas that will elevate your baking.

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Why This Recipe Works 🍏✨

Balanced Sweetness & Tartness – A mix of apple varieties ensures the filling isn’t overly sweet or bland. Tart apples like Granny Smith balance sweeter apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor – Butter, sugar, and cinnamon come together in perfect harmony, enhancing the natural taste of apples without being fussy.

Easy Crust Options – Whether you make a homemade crust or use a store-bought one, this recipe works beautifully, making it approachable for beginners and still impressive for seasoned bakers.

No-Soggy Bottom Guarantee – A few smart tricks, like pre-cooking the filling slightly or brushing the crust with egg wash, help keep the crust golden and crisp.

Comfort Food Classic – Apple pie is universally loved, making it the perfect dessert to share at potlucks, holidays, or Sunday dinners.

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What You’ll Need for This Recipe 🛒

For the Pie Crust (Homemade Option)

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon sugar

1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

6–8 tablespoons ice water

(Tip: If pressed for time, you can use 2 ready-made refrigerated pie crusts.)

For the Apple Filling

6–7 medium apples (a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp recommended)

¾ cup granulated sugar

¼ cup brown sugar (adds richness)

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (thickener)

1 teaspoon cinnamon

½ teaspoon nutmeg

1 tablespoon lemon juice (prevents browning, adds brightness)

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

For Assembly

1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

1 tablespoon sugar (for sprinkling on top)

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How to Make This Apple Pie 🥧

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.

Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter (or your fingertips) until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together.

Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

(Shortcut: If using store-bought crust, skip ahead.)

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Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

Peel, core, and slice apples into thin wedges.

Toss apples in a large bowl with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla.

Let sit for 10–15 minutes so the apples release their juices.

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Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Roll out one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle.

Place into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing gently to fit. Leave some overhang.

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Step 4: Fill the Pie

Pour apple mixture into the prepared crust.

Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.

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Step 5: Top the Pie

Roll out the second disc of dough. Place it over the filling as a full crust, or cut strips to make a lattice top.

Trim excess dough, fold edges under, and crimp to seal.

Brush with egg wash and sprinkle lightly with sugar.

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Step 6: Bake the Pie

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 40–45 minutes, until the crust is golden and filling is bubbling.

If edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil strips.

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Step 7: Cool & Serve

Allow pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This helps the filling set so you get clean slices instead of a runny mess.

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Tips + Tricks & More for Recipe Success 🍎

Apple Variety Matters – Use at least two different kinds of apples for depth of flavor. Tart + sweet = perfect balance.

Prevent Soggy Bottoms – Sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs or crushed graham crackers on the bottom crust before adding filling. They absorb extra juices.

Chill Your Dough – Cold butter = flaky crust. Always chill dough before rolling and again before baking.

Egg Wash Magic – Brushing the crust with egg wash gives that bakery-style golden shine.

Customize Spices – Add a pinch of allspice or cardamom for a unique twist.

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Serving Suggestions 🍨

Classic – Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Caramel Drizzle – Add a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Breakfast Treat – Enjoy a slice the next morning with coffee — yes, pie for breakfast is perfectly acceptable!

Mini Pies – Use the same recipe but bake in muffin tins for individual servings.

Holiday Twist – Top with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a festive look.

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Storage & Make-Ahead Tips 🥡

Room Temperature – Apple pie can sit covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Refrigerator – Store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the oven for best results.

Freezer Friendly – Freeze the unbaked pie (wrapped tightly in foil) for up to 3 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding 15–20 minutes to the bake time.

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Why Apple Pie Will Always Be a Favorite 🍏🥧

Apple pie isn’t just dessert — it’s tradition. Every culture has its version of baked apples wrapped in pastry, but the classic American-style apple pie remains iconic. It’s comforting, simple, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you’re making it for Thanksgiving, a casual Sunday supper, or just because you want something sweet, apple pie delivers every single time.

With its flaky golden crust, spiced apple filling, and versatility, this pie proves that you don’t need complicated ingredients to make something extraordinary. It’s a recipe that feels special yet approachable — exactly what a homemade dessert should be.

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✅ Total Time: ~2 hours 15 minutes (includes chilling + baking)
✅ Prep Time: 30 minutes
✅ Chill Time: 1 hour
✅ Bake Time: 55–60 minutes
✅ Servings: 8 slices

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