There’s something undeniably comforting about the scent of cinnamon and baked apples wafting through your home. Inspired by cherished family gatherings and lazy Sunday afternoons, this Easy Apple Pie recipe is my go-to for celebrating those simple moments that bring joy. Using a delightful mix of Granny Smith and Honey Crisp apples, this pie strikes the perfect balance between tart and sweet, making it not just a dessert but a comforting hug in every slice.
Imagine the satisfying crunch of a perfectly flaky crust giving way to a warm, spiced filling while you enjoy it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Whether you’re looking to impress guests at a potluck or just brighten up a weeknight dinner, this classic dessert is here to elevate your homemade meals. Ready to make unforgettable memories in your kitchen? Let’s dive into this easy apple pie recipe that promises to delight every palate!
Why is this Easy Apple Pie Recipe a must-try?
Simplicity at its best: This recipe only requires basic baking skills, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned chefs. Heavenly aroma: The scent of cinnamon and baked apples fills your home, creating an inviting atmosphere. Perfectly balanced flavors: A delightful mix of Granny Smith and Honey Crisp apples ensures every bite presents a harmonious blend of tartness and sweetness. Crowd pleaser: Whether at family gatherings or cozy dinners, everyone will be asking for seconds. Versatile serving options: Enjoy it warm, topped with vanilla ice cream, or explore different serving suggestions like caramel drizzle for a unique twist. Ready to embrace comfort? Try this easy apple pie recipe today and make it your new favorite!
Easy Apple Pie Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
• Pie Crust – Use homemade or store-bought for convenience and a crispy texture.
For the Filling
• Apples – 7-8 apples (about 3.5 pounds); combine Granny Smith and Honey Crisp for the best tart and sweet balance.
• Brown Sugar – A touch of sweetness that enhances caramelization; substitute with coconut sugar for a richer flavor.
• Granulated Sugar – Balances the tartness of apples; adjust according to taste.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and flavor; tweak the amount based on your preference.
• Ground Nutmeg – Provides depth; add sparingly for a nuanced taste.
• Ground Ginger – Optional for a little spice; increase cinnamon if omitting ginger.
• Ground Allspice – Optional but adds a complex flavor; use if desired.
• Salt – Essential in enhancing the overall flavors of the pie.
• Fresh Lemon Juice – Prevents apples from browning and introduces bright, fresh notes.
• Cold Unsalted Butter – Ensures moisture and richness in the filling; add additional for extra decadence.
• Cornstarch – An essential thickening agent to prevent runny pie; flour can be substituted if needed.
For the Glaze
• Egg (for wash) – Smooths and adds shine to the crust; can replace with milk for a vegan option.
• Heavy Cream or Whole Milk – Optional for a richer glaze finish.
For the Topping
• Coarse Sugar/Turbinado Sugar – Adds delightful crunch and sweetness on top of the crust.
Embrace the joy of baking with this Easy Apple Pie Recipe—your kitchen will be filled with delightful aromas, and your family will be clamoring for a slice in no time!
How to Make Easy Apple Pie
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Prepare Pie Crust: Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Chill it in the refrigerator for about 45 minutes. For a lovely lattice top, cut additional strips from the remaining dough.
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Prep Apples: Peel, core, and slice your apples into ¼ to ½ inch thick pieces. To keep them fresh and prevent browning, soak the slices in lemon water for a few minutes.
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Mix Filling: Drain the apples and place them in a large bowl. Toss with brown sugar, granulated sugar, spices, salt, lemon juice, and cornstarch until well coated.
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Assemble Pie: Fill the pie crust with the apple mixture, dotting the top with cold unsalted butter. Cover with a top crust or lattice design, then brush with egg wash and sprinkle coarse sugar for a glittering finish.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake the pie for 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is bubbly and the crust is a golden brown. Remove any foil during the last 15 minutes of baking for an extra crispy top.
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Serve: Let the pie cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, ideally alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly delightful experience!
Optional: Drizzle with homemade caramel sauce for an indulgent touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Easy Apple Pie
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Room Temperature: Keep your easy apple pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, ensuring it’s covered with a clean kitchen towel or loosely wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain freshness.
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Fridge: Store any leftover pie in the fridge for up to 5 days. Cover it with plastic wrap or foil to keep it from drying out and to preserve its delightful flavors.
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Freezer: Unbaked apple pies can be frozen for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in foil or place in a freezer-safe bag. Adjust the baking time if baking from frozen for best results.
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Reheating: For leftover pie, reheat slices in an oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. This will restore the flaky crust and warm spiced filling, making it taste freshly baked.
Make Ahead Options
These Easy Apple Pies are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the pie crust and filling up to 24 hours in advance. Start by making the pie crust, rolling it out, and fitting it into a pie plate—then refrigerate the crust. For the filling, peel, core, and slice the apples, soaking them briefly in lemon water to prevent browning. Mix the slices with sugars and spices, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, assemble the pie by filling the crust with the prepped filling, dotting with butter, and baking as directed. This approach ensures you enjoy a warm, homemade Easy Apple Pie with minimal effort on busy weeknights, just as delicious as when made from scratch!
Expert Tips for Easy Apple Pie
- Choose the Right Apples: Mix tart Granny Smith with sweet Honey Crisp for a balanced filling; avoid using only sweet varieties, which may lead to a one-note flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Lemon Juice: It not only prevents browning but adds freshness; omit this step, and your apples might taste duller.
- Prevent a Soggy Crust: Pre-bake your crust with weights for best results; a blind bake locks in that crunchy texture that everyone loves in an Easy Apple Pie.
- Optimal Thickeners: Always use cornstarch to prevent runny pie; flour isn’t as effective in thickening the filling.
- Rest Before Slicing: Allow the pie to cool for at least 20 minutes before cutting; slicing too soon can lead to a messy presentation.
What to Serve with Easy Apple Pie?
Savor the warmth of freshly baked apple pie by pairing it with complementary dishes and desserts that enhance its cozy flavors.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness melts beautifully over the warm pie, creating an indulgent experience in every bite. It’s the classic pairing that never disappoints.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, freshly whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that balances the dense apple filling beautifully, providing a delightful contrast with each slice.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle this decadent treat over your pie for a sweet, buttery addition that amplifies the apple and spice flavors, bringing a touch of elegance to your dessert.
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Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar cheese pairs unexpectedly well with sweet apple pie, adding a savory contrast that enhances the overall flavor profile—a true delight for adventurous palates!
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Fresh Mint Leaves: Garnish each slice with vibrant mint for a refreshing contrast that not only looks beautiful but also elevates the pie’s warm spices.
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Coffee or Tea: A steaming cup of coffee or spiced chai complements the sweetness of the pie, making for a comforting afternoon treat or after-dinner delight.
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Almond Cake: Serve a slice of moist almond cake alongside your apple pie for a nutty twist and a different texture that creates an inviting dessert table.
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Pecan Pie Bars: For a cohesive fall-themed dessert spread, add these sweet, nutty bars that echo the flavors in your apple pie, creating a warm and inviting feast.
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Cider or Sparkling Water: Refreshing cider enhances the apple flavor, while sparkling water cleanses the palate, making each bite of pie even more enjoyable.
Create memorable moments with these delightful pairings that perfectly celebrate the comforting essence of your Easy Apple Pie!
Easy Apple Pie Variations
Feel free to explore these exciting twists that will make your delicious apple pie even more delightful!
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Apple Mix: Experiment with varieties like Fuji or Braeburn for a unique flavor profile that brightens every bite. You’ll discover new favorites with each apple twist!
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Spice Adjustments: Add a hint of cardamom or cloves to elevate the warm spices and create a signature flavor for your pie. A little sprinkle can transform the entire pie experience!
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Dairy-Free Option: Swap cold unsalted butter with coconut oil or a plant-based butter for a dairy-free delight everyone can enjoy. Taste the rich creaminess without the dairy.
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Caramel Drizzle: Pour warm caramel sauce over individual slices for a luxurious finish and an irresistible sweet twist that leaves everyone craving more.
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Nutty Crust: Incorporate ground nuts like almonds or pecans into your pie crust for an added crunch and a hint of nutty flavor that complements apple beautifully.
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Maple Sweetness: Substitute some or all of the granulated sugar with maple syrup for a deeper sweet note. The earthy undertones of maple will add a special touch!
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Crispy Topping: Instead of a traditional crust, try a crumble topping made with oats, brown sugar, and butter for a deliciously crunchy texture that’s simply irresistible.
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Savory Twist: Introduce a dash of cayenne or black pepper to the filling for a surprising heat that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the apples. This unexpected element will keep taste buds intrigued!
Easy Apple Pie Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best apples for my pie?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, mix tart Granny Smith apples with sweet Honey Crisp. Aim for about 7-8 apples—this gives a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness. If you want to experiment, feel free to throw in a few Fuji or Braeburn apples for added complexity!
What’s the best way to store my Easy Apple Pie?
You can store your Easy Apple Pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, simply covering it with a clean kitchen towel or wrapping it loosely in plastic wrap. If you have any leftovers, pop it in the fridge for up to 5 days—just make sure it’s covered to keep that delicious flavor intact!
Can I freeze my apple pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze unbaked apple pies for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in foil or place it inside a freezer-safe bag to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to bake, there’s no need to thaw—just pop it in the oven and adjust the baking time to ensure it’s nice and golden.
Why is my apple pie filling runny?
Very frustrating, I know! To prevent a runny filling, make sure to use the right amount of cornstarch as a thickening agent—this is essential for a perfectly set filling. Also, let your apples drain after tossing them with the sugars and spices; this helps eliminate excess moisture. Mixing tart and sweet apples is key too, since sweeter varieties alone can lead to more liquid!
Is this recipe suitable for vegan diets?
Yes, it can be! Just replace the egg wash with a splash of milk or a plant-based option, and use coconut or vegetable butter instead of regular butter. The filling ingredients will still provide that lovely flavor without compromising on texture or taste, making it a fantastic vegan option as well!
Can pets eat apple pie?
While apples themselves are generally safe for dogs in moderation, I wouldn’t recommend letting your pets indulge in apple pie. Ingredients like sugar, spices, and butter can be harmful to them. Always sticking to plain, unseasoned apple slices is the best treat for your furry friends!
Deliciously Easy Apple Pie Recipe That Brings Comfort Home
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate. Chill it in the refrigerator for about 45 minutes.
- Peel, core, and slice your apples into ¼ to ½ inch thick pieces and soak in lemon water.
- Drain the apples and toss with brown sugar, granulated sugar, spices, salt, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
- Fill the pie crust with the apple mixture, dot with butter, cover, brush with egg wash, and sprinkle with sugar.
- Preheat oven to 375°F and bake for 40-45 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before slicing and serve warm with vanilla ice cream.