Homemade Apple Pie

If you’re looking for a delightful dessert that warms the heart and fills the home with sweet, inviting aromas, look no further than this Homemade Apple Pie. This recipe has been passed down through generations in my family, and it never fails to bring smiles to everyone’s faces. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a quick treat or for special family gatherings where everyone can enjoy a slice together.

Apple pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a comforting hug on a plate. The combination of tender apples, warm spices, and flaky crust creates an irresistible experience that makes any occasion feel extra special.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a delicious pie ready to bake in no time!
• Family favorite: Everyone loves apple pie! It’s sure to please kids and adults alike.
• Make ahead: Prepare the filling in advance and assemble the pie when you’re ready to bake.
• Customizable: Get creative with spices or add-ins based on your taste preferences.
• Delicious aroma: Baking this pie will fill your kitchen with a warm and inviting scent that draws everyone in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Homemade Apple Pie uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Let’s gather what you’ll need for this delicious treat!

For the Filling

• 6 cups apples (about 6 medium peeled, cored, and cut into 1/4 inch thick slices)
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Crust

• 1 pastry for double pie crust
• 2-3 tablespoons butter (cut into small pieces and scattered evenly over the apples before adding the top crust)

Variations

One of the best things about apple pie is how flexible it can be! Feel free to mix things up with these fun variations.

• Add some berries: Toss in some fresh blueberries or raspberries for a fruity twist.
• Try different spices: Experiment with ginger or allspice for added warmth and flavor.
• Sweeten it up: Use brown sugar instead of white sugar for a deeper caramel flavor.
• Change up the crust: Swap out regular flour for whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste.

How to Make Homemade Apple Pie

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 425°F. This step is crucial because starting off with a hot oven helps create that beautifully golden crust we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Crust

Line a 9-inch pie plate with your bottom crust. Trim it even with the edge of the plate. This step sets up your base perfectly while you prepare the filling.

Step 3: Mix Your Filling

In a large bowl, combine your sliced apples with sugar, flour, cinnamon, salt, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Mixing them together ensures every slice of apple is coated in those lovely flavors!

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Spoon that delicious apple mixture into your crust-lined pie plate. Don’t forget to dot it evenly with butter—it adds richness!

Step 5: Top It Off

Roll out your second pie crust and place it over the apple filling. Make sure to press the edges of both crusts together to seal in all those wonderful juices during baking.

Step 6: Cut Slits

Cut slits in several places on top of the crust. This not only looks beautiful but also allows steam to escape while baking.

Step 7: Brush & Sprinkle

Brush the top of your pie with an egg wash (for great color) and sprinkle some extra sugar on top for sweetness and crunch.

Step 8: Bake Away!

Bake your masterpiece in that preheated oven—start at 425°F for 15 minutes then lower it to 375°F for another 30 minutes until everything is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Once it’s out of the oven, let your homemade apple pie cool on a rack. This waiting time helps set everything nicely so each slice holds its shape when served!

Now all that’s left is to slice up that warm pie and enjoy every bite! Happy baking!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Apple Pie

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of homemade apple pie wafting through your kitchen. Here are some pro tips to elevate your pie-making game!

• Choose the right apples: For the best flavor and texture, opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination ensures a balanced sweetness with a delightful tartness.

• Don’t skip the lemon juice: Adding lemon juice not only enhances the flavor but also prevents the apples from browning too quickly. It brings out their natural sweetness while keeping them fresh.

• Chill your dough: If you make your own crust, chill it for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. A cold dough helps maintain its shape during baking and results in a flakier crust.

• Use an egg wash for shine: An egg wash made from beaten eggs with a splash of water or milk gives your crust a beautiful golden color and a glossy finish. It makes your pie look as good as it tastes!

• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing your pie to cool on a rack for at least an hour before slicing helps set the filling. This way, when you cut into it, you’ll get nice, clean slices instead of a gooey mess.

How to Serve Homemade Apple Pie

Serving homemade apple pie is an art in itself! Here are some delightful ideas to present this classic dessert beautifully.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds richness and lightness that perfectly complements the warm spices of the pie.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting over a warm slice of apple pie is simply heavenly—it’s like a match made in dessert heaven!
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice adds a sweet touch and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Cinnamon-spiced roasted nuts: These can serve as a crunchy contrast to the soft apples in your pie. Just toss mixed nuts with cinnamon and a touch of sugar, then roast until fragrant.

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, sliced apples, and walnuts drizzled with vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the richness of apple pie.

• Cheese platter: Pairing your pie with sharp cheddar cheese creates an exciting flavor contrast that many enjoy—sweet meets savory in one delicious bite!

• Hot beverage: Serve with warm chai tea or spiced cider to complement the cozy flavors of your homemade apple pie, making it perfect for cool evenings.

Now that you’re armed with these tips and serving ideas, it’s time to gather your ingredients and share this delightful treat with family and friends! Enjoy every bite of your delicious homemade apple pie!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Homemade Apple Pie is perfect for meal prep! You can whip it up ahead of time and enjoy it fresh from the oven later. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious pie.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Label with the date before placing it in the freezer.
• Frozen apple pie is best enjoyed within 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any wrapping from the pie and place it on a baking sheet.
• Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Have questions about this delightful Homemade Apple Pie? Here are some common queries.

What apples are best for Homemade Apple Pie?

For the best flavor and texture, use a mix of tart and sweet apples. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji are excellent choices that will give your pie a balanced taste.

Can I make Homemade Apple Pie without an egg wash?

Absolutely! If you prefer not to use an egg wash, you can brush the crust with a bit of milk or a dairy-free alternative for a beautiful finish.

How long does Homemade Apple Pie last at room temperature?

Homemade Apple Pie can be safely stored at room temperature for about 2 days. After that, it’s best to refrigerate any leftovers to keep them fresh longer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Homemade Apple Pie! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm embrace of nostalgia that fills your kitchen with delightful aromas. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a slice all by yourself, this pie is sure to bring smiles. Happy baking!