Classic American Apple Pie
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Experience the warmth of home with this Classic American Apple Pie recipe, featuring a flaky crust and a sweet-tart filling made from fresh apples and aromatic spices. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings, this timeless dessert captures the essence of tradition and comfort in every slice.
This Classic American Apple Pie brings together the best of flavors and nostalgia. Each bite reminds you of warm family kitchens and cherished moments.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Timeless classic dessert
- Flaky, buttery crust
- Sweet-tart apple filling
- Perfect for any occasion
The Art of Pie Making
Making a pie is both an art and a science, where the perfect balance of crust and filling can make all the difference. Achieving a flaky pie crust requires a gentle touch and an understanding of the ingredients. Chilled butter is crucial, as it creates steam during baking, resulting in beautiful layers. The key is to handle the dough as little as possible to keep it tender and flaky.
Selecting the right apples for your pie is equally important. Varieties such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn offer the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness, resulting in a filling that is both flavorful and aromatic. Always aim for fresh, in-season apples for the best taste.
Tips for Perfecting Your Pie
When preparing your filling, consider tossing the apples with a bit of lemon juice to enhance their natural flavors and prevent browning. Adding a pinch of salt to the sugar mixture can also elevate the overall taste, helping to balance the sweetness. Don't forget to dot the filling with butter before sealing the pie, as it helps add richness and moisture.
As you roll out your crust, dust your workspace with flour to prevent sticking. Use even pressure to ensure uniform thickness, which will help in even baking. Always remember to cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape, preventing a soggy bottom crust.
Ingredients
For the crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
For the filling
- 6 to 8 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter, to dot
Ensure your apples are fresh for the best flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Pie Crust
In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until mixture forms a ball.
Make the Filling
In another bowl, combine sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss to coat the apples evenly.
Assemble the Pie
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one pie crust and place it in a pie dish. Fill with apple mixture and dot with butter.
Bake
Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes, then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue to bake for 30 to 35 minutes until apples are soft and crust is golden brown. Let cool before serving.
Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
Serving Suggestions
Classic American Apple Pie is best served slightly warm, allowing the flavors to meld and the crust to be at its flakiest. For an extra special touch, consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on each slice. The combination of warm pie and cold toppings creates a delightful contrast that will impress family and friends alike.
Pairing your apple pie with a spiced cider or a hot cup of coffee can enhance the overall experience. The spices in the pie complement the warm, comforting nature of these beverages, making them the perfect accompaniments for a cozy gathering.
Storage Tips
To ensure your apple pie stays fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you need longer storage, consider refrigerating it, which can keep it fresh for up to a week. Simply cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain its moisture and flavor.
If you find yourself with leftovers, you can also freeze your pie. Wrap it tightly and place it in the freezer, where it can last for up to three months. When it's time to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven until warmed through for the best results.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use store-bought crust?
Yes, store-bought pie crust can save time and still yield delicious results.
→ What apples work best for apple pie?
A mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples is highly recommended for a balance of tart and sweet.
Classic American Apple Pie
Experience the warmth of home with this Classic American Apple Pie recipe, featuring a flaky crust and a sweet-tart filling made from fresh apples and aromatic spices. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy evenings, this timeless dessert captures the essence of tradition and comfort in every slice.
Created by: Emily Carter
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
For the filling
- 6 to 8 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter, to dot
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until mixture forms a ball. Divide into two halves, shape into discs, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours.
In another bowl, combine sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss to coat the apples evenly.
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one pie crust and place it in a pie dish. Fill with apple mixture and dot with butter. Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the filling. Seal the edges and cut vents for steam to escape.
Bake in preheated oven for 15 minutes, then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue to bake for 30 to 35 minutes until apples are soft and crust is golden brown. Let cool before serving.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Total Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Protein: 2g