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Apple Pie Recipe

This foolproof apple pie features a flaky, buttery crust and a perfectly balanced cinnamon-spiced apple filling. Sweet and tart apples bake into a golden pie that holds its shape beautifully while staying tender and juicy.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
resting 2 hours
Total Time 3 hours 22 minutes
Servings: 8
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 375

Ingredients
  

  • For the crust double crust:
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 cup 2 sticks cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 6 –8 tablespoons ice water
  • For the filling:
  • 6 cups apples about 6–7 medium, peeled, cored, and sliced (a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works best)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup light brown sugar packed
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • For assembly:
  • 1 tablespoon butter cut into small pieces
  • 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon coarse sugar optional, for sprinkling
  • Optional mix-ins:
  • ½ cup raisins or dried cranberries
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Method
 

  1. Make the crust: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in cold butter with a pastry cutter (or pulse in a food processor) until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  2. Prepare the apples: In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples with sugars, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla. Toss well until apples are evenly coated. Let sit 10 minutes so the juices begin to release.
  3. Roll out the crust: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer to a 9-inch pie dish, pressing gently into the bottom and sides. Trim excess dough to hang about 1 inch over the edge.
  4. Assemble the pie: Pour apple filling into the crust. Dot the top with butter pieces. Roll out the second dough disc and place over the apples. Trim excess, then fold edges under and crimp. Cut a few slits in the top crust for steam to escape.
  5. Finish and bake: Brush the top with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired. Place pie on a baking sheet to catch drips. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, then reduce temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake another 35–40 minutes, until crust is golden and filling is bubbling.
  6. Cool and serve: Let pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. The filling will set as it rests.