Best Recipe for Apple Pie

If you’re looking for a comforting dessert that brings everyone together, the Best Recipe for Apple Pie is just what you need! There’s something magical about the aroma of warm apples and spices filling your home. This pie is not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and memories. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply treating yourself after a long day, this recipe is sure to impress.

What makes this apple pie truly special is its perfect balance of textures and flavors. With a flaky double crust and a deliciously spiced filling, it’s everything an apple pie should be – and more! Plus, it’s an easy recipe to follow, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet and tart apples with aromatic spices creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Easy Preparation: This recipe breaks down the steps clearly, so even novice bakers can feel confident in their skills.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves apple pie! It’s a hit whether served at dinner or as a midnight snack.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the filling in advance or even freeze the assembled pie to bake later!
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with vanilla ice cream or enjoy it on its own – either way, it’s scrumptious!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful apple pie, you’ll need some simple, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll gather:

• 1 homemade double pie crust (2 sheets of pie dough)
• 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
• juice from half a lemon (2 tablespoons)
• 5 pounds apples (5 pounds before peeling and coring)
• 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 & 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 3/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 tablespoon milk (for brushing on pie)
• 1 tablespoon beaten egg (optional, for brushing on pie)
• 1 tablespoon raw sugar (for topping pie)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Mix up the apples: Use different varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for unique flavors.
• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts can add a nice crunch to your filling.
• Spice it up: Try adding ginger or cloves for an extra layer of flavor.
• Go crazy with toppings: Consider adding caramel drizzle or whipped cream when serving!

How to Make Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Step 1: Choose Your Apples

Start by selecting your apples. You’ll need about 5 pounds, which is roughly 11 large apples. Mixing varieties like Granny Smith for tartness and Gala for sweetness gives your pie great flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Use a microplane grater to zest 1/4 teaspoon of lemon peel into a large skillet. The zest adds brightness! Then squeeze in the juice from half the lemon. This step prevents browning and enhances flavor.

Step 3: Peel and Slice the Apples

Peel your apples using a potato peeler or an apple peeler if you have one. Slice them into 1/8 inch pieces. I recommend peeling one apple at a time and slicing it immediately to keep everything fresh. Toss them in the skillet with lemon juice as you go.

Step 4: Cook the Filling

Once all your apples are sliced, move them over medium heat in the skillet. Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom. Stir gently until everything is coated without breaking up the apples.

Step 5: Simmer Away!

Cover the skillet and let that mixture simmer for about 20 minutes while stirring every few minutes to avoid sticking. The goal here is to make the apples fork-tender while retaining their shape.

Step 6: Cool Down

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Transfer your mixture onto a half sheet pan to cool completely in the fridge or freezer – this will only take about 30 minutes!

Step 7: Prepare Your Crust

Roll out your pie dough into a deep 9-inch pie dish, allowing some excess dough overhang. A well-prepped crust makes all the difference in texture!

Step 8: Assemble Your Pie

Spoon all that delicious cooled apple filling into your prepared crust—don’t leave any gooey goodness behind! Top with another sheet of crust; whether you opt for lattice or full coverage is up to you.

Step 9: Crimp & Vent

Fold in the edges of your top crust and crimp however you like. If you went full coverage instead of lattice, remember to poke some vents into the top crust!

Step 10: Chill Again!

Place your assembled pie into the fridge or freezer for another quick chill – this helps create that flaky texture we’re after!

Step 11: Preheat & Brush

Preheat your oven to 425°F while brushing your top crust with milk or beaten egg for that lovely golden finish.

Step 12: Bake!

Bake for about 15 minutes at high heat until golden brown around the edges before lowering the temperature to bake longer at 350°F with foil covering it to prevent burning.

Step 13: Let It Cool

Patience is key here! Allow your masterpiece to cool on a wire rack for about four hours before slicing—you want those juices to settle perfectly!

Once cooled, slice up that heavenly creation and serve! My husband insists on pairing ours with vanilla ice cream—a must-have indulgence! Enjoy every bite of this timeless classic!

Pro Tips for Making Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Making the perfect apple pie just got easier with these handy tips!

• Choose the right apples: Mixing different varieties, like Granny Smith and Gala, adds depth to the flavor and texture. Some apples hold their shape well during baking, while others become soft and sweet, creating a delightful contrast.

• Don’t skip cooking the filling: Pre-cooking your apple filling ensures that it has the perfect consistency. By partially cooking the apples first, you avoid that dreaded mushiness and achieve a great balance of flavors.

• Chill your crust: Allowing your assembled pie to sit in the fridge or freezer before baking creates a flaky crust. This helps to prevent shrinkage during baking and enhances that melt-in-your-mouth texture.

• Use a foil shield: Protecting your crust with a homemade foil shield prevents it from burning while allowing the filling to cook through. This way, you get that beautiful golden color without sacrificing taste or texture.

• Be patient while cooling: Letting your pie cool for several hours is essential for getting the right texture. Cutting into it too soon can result in a soupy filling instead of those lovely slices you desire.

How to Serve Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Serving your homemade apple pie can be as delightful as making it! Here are some creative ideas to make this dessert even more special.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy touch that complements the rich flavors of apple pie.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice brings an indulgent sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spiced apples.
• Cinnamon sugar sprinkle: A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top gives an extra hint of warmth and enhances that comforting fall flavor.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing; creamy vanilla ice cream balances out the warmth of the pie and creates a delightful contrast in temperature.
• Cheddar cheese: Serving aged cheddar alongside apple pie is a deliciously unexpected combination. The sharpness of the cheese cuts through the sweetness, creating a unique flavor experience.
• Hot tea or coffee: A warm beverage like chai tea or freshly brewed coffee elevates your dessert experience, making it ideal for cozy evenings.
• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad can balance out the richness of apple pie. Consider using seasonal fruits like pears and berries for added freshness.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in mind, you’re all set to create memorable moments around your Best Recipe for Apple Pie! Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Best Recipe for Apple Pie is fantastic for meal prep! You can make it in advance and enjoy the delightful flavors whenever you need a comforting dessert.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with plastic wrap.
• After 2 days, transfer it to the fridge to keep it fresh longer. It should last about a week in the refrigerator.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• To reheat slices of pie, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• For a whole pie, cover it with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might come up while making this delicious apple pie!

What makes this the Best Recipe for Apple Pie?

This recipe stands out because of its cooked apple filling that ensures perfect texture and flavor. The combination of spices and sugars enhances the apples’ natural sweetness, making every slice irresistible!

Can I use different types of apples for this Best Recipe for Apple Pie?

Absolutely! A mix of tart and sweet apples gives depth to the flavor. Granny Smith, Gala, and Golden Delicious work beautifully together, but feel free to experiment with your favorites!

How long should I let the pie cool before slicing?

It’s best to let the pie cool on a wire rack for about 4 hours. This helps set the filling so that it’s not too liquidy when you cut into it.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures like regular flour. Just ensure that your pie crust is also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in baking this Best Recipe for Apple Pie as much as I do! It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience filled with warmth and love. Whether shared with family, friends, or enjoyed solo with a scoop of ice cream, each bite is sure to bring a smile. Happy baking!