Easy Apple Pie Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of a freshly baked apple pie wafting through your kitchen. This Easy Apple Pie Recipe is exactly what you need when you want a homemade dessert that feels both classic and effortless. I love how it comes together quickly with simple ingredients, yet tastes like it’s been slow-cooked to perfection on a crisp fall afternoon.

Whether you’re baking for a cozy family dinner or bringing something special to a potluck, this pie always steals the show. The balance of tart Granny Smith apples with a hint of cinnamon and brown sugar makes every bite irresistible. Trust me, once you try this Easy Apple Pie Recipe, it’ll become your go-to when the apple season hits!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role—whether it’s to add sweetness, texture, or that classic pie flavor. I always recommend using fresh Granny Smith apples for their tartness, which pairs beautifully with the cinnamon and sugar. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll want to pick up for your kitchen adventure.

• Pie Crusts: Using pre-made crusts saves a bunch of time, but homemade crust adds an extra special touch if you’re up for it.
• Granny Smith Apples: Their tartness balances the sweetness, and they hold up wonderfully when baked.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds just the right level of sweetness without overpowering the apples.
• Light Brown Sugar: Gives the filling a lovely depth and hint of caramel flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the apple juices so the filling isn’t soggy.
• Ground Cinnamon: The classic spice that makes apple pie feel cozy and inviting.
• Ground Nutmeg: Just a pinch enhances the warm flavor profile without taking over.
• Lemon Juice and Zest: Brightens the flavor and keeps the apples from browning.
• Egg: Beaten for an egg wash that gives the crust a gorgeous golden finish.
• Sanding Sugar (Optional): Adds a subtle sparkle and crunch on top.

Variations

I love making this Easy Apple Pie Recipe my own by mixing things up depending on the season or mood. Don’t be afraid to experiment a bit—you might discover your own favorite twist!

• Spiced Up: Sometimes, I add a dash of ground ginger or cardamom for a little extra warmth that’s perfect during the holidays.
• Mixed Apples: Combining Granny Smith with Fuji or Honeycrisp apples can give your pie a more complex apple flavor and texture.
• Gluten-Free Version: Swap the all-purpose flour and pie crust for gluten-free alternatives—works beautifully without losing that classic pie feel.
• Vegan Adaptation: Use a plant-based crust and substitute the egg wash with almond milk or aquafaba to keep the crust golden and crisp.

How to Make Easy Apple Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Apples Like a Pro

Start by peeling, coring, and slicing your Granny Smith apples into roughly ½-inch slices. I find that uniform slices help the pie cook evenly and make each bite perfectly tender yet not mushy. Toss them in a large bowl with the lemon juice and zest right away to prevent browning—that little citrus zing really brightens things up.

Step 2: Mix Your Filling

Next, add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the apples. I like to mix it gently but thoroughly so every slice is coated evenly. Remember, the flour thickens the juices as the pie bakes, so don’t skip it!

Step 3: Assemble Your Pie

Roll out your bottom pie crust into your pie dish, making sure it fits snugly without tearing. Pour in the apple filling, spreading it out evenly. Then top it with the second crust—either as a full cover with slits for steam or a pretty lattice pattern if you’re feeling fancy. Seal the edges well to keep all those juices inside.

Step 4: Add That Golden Finish

Brush the top crust with the beaten egg wash. This simple step gives the pie that irresistible golden glow once baked. If you want a little extra sparkle, sprinkle some sanding sugar on top—it’s a small touch that makes a big difference!

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the pie at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes, then lower the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for another 30-35 minutes. Keep an eye out for bubbling juices through your crust vents—that’s a sure sign the filling is cooked perfectly. If the crust edges start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil halfway through baking.

How to Serve Easy Apple Pie Recipe

Garnishes

Honestly, I usually keep it simple with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. The creaminess pairs with the warm pie in such a comforting way. Sometimes, I add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for that extra cozy touch.

Side Dishes

This pie shines as a dessert on its own, but I love serving it alongside a sharp cheddar cheese plate for a fun twist. If you’re thinking drinks, a cup of hot coffee or a spiced apple cider complement the pie beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

I’ve tried presenting individual mini apple pies in ramekins for holiday parties which makes serving and portion control a breeze. You can also dust the top crust with powdered sugar after baking for a snowy effect that’s perfect for winter gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, I loosely cover the pie with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the fridge. It keeps perfectly for 3-4 days, and honestly, the flavors sometimes deepen overnight. Make sure to bring it back to room temperature or gently warm before serving.

Freezing

I’ve frozen unbaked pies by wrapping them tightly in plastic and then foil, and they thaw beautifully when baked fresh. You can also freeze fully baked pies, but I recommend freezing slices instead of the whole pie for easier reheating later on.

Reheating

The best way to reheat apple pie is in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. This helps keep the crust crispy and the filling warm without turning it soggy like a microwave might.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Easy Apple Pie Recipe has become one of my favorite baking go-tos because it’s straightforward without skimping on flavor or that homemade feel. Sharing it with you feels like passing down a little kitchen love. So next time apples are in season, give this recipe a try—you’re going to love how it fills your home and your heart with warmth.

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