If you’re on the hunt for an utterly delightful and surprisingly easy dessert, this Apple Pie with Canned Filling and Lattice Crust Recipe is going to become your new favorite. It’s a classic comfort food with a simple twist: instead of laboring over peeling and prepping fresh apples, the canned apple pie filling does the heavy lifting for you, while a homemade lattice crust adds that perfect homemade charm. The aroma filling your kitchen and the flaky golden crust that cracks at first bite will make this pie an instant crowd-pleaser, whether it’s a family dinner, holiday feast, or an anytime treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a pantry full of fancy ingredients to create this masterpiece. Each item plays its role beautifully, bringing balance to the flavors and textures—from the buttery crust to the cozy spiced filling.
- 2 store-bought pie crusts (softened at room temperature): These are your foundation for that flaky and tender crust that holds everything together.
- 1 large egg + 1 tablespoon water (egg wash): This brush-on glaze gives your crust a gorgeous golden shine and a lovely crisp bite.
- 2 cans (20 oz each) apple pie filling: The star of the show, offering sweet, tender apple chunks already loaded with classic pie spice.
- 1 tart apple (peeled and thinly sliced, optional): Adds fresh texture and an extra tangy burst for those who want a little more apple variety.
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar: A touch of molasses-rich sweetness to deepen the filling’s flavor.
- 3 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Brightens the filling and balances the sweetness beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch: Thickens the filling juices so you get perfectly set slices without a runny mess.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The warm, comforting spice that screams apple pie.
- ½ teaspoon each ground ginger & allspice: These add complex warmth and a hint of festive flair.
- Pinch of salt: Just enough to enhance all the sweet and spicy notes.
- ¼ cup butter (cut into small cubes): Scattered in the filling, it melts into pockets of richness.
- Cinnamon sugar (optional): A sprinkle on top for a sweet, crunchy finish and an extra hit of cinnamon flavor.
How to Make Apple Pie with Canned Filling and Lattice Crust Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Bake the Bottom Crust
Start by pressing one softened pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan, making sure it fits snugly without any folds or air bubbles. Prick the bottom and sides gently with a fork to prevent bubbling while baking. Pop this into the freezer for 15 minutes; chilling the dough helps keep the crust flaky and crisp. After freezing, cover the crust with pie weights (or dry beans/rice) and bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes, or until lightly golden. Remove weights, brush with egg wash, and bake for another 3 minutes to set the crust further. This pre-baking step ensures your bottom crust won’t get soggy once the filling goes in.
Step 2: Prepare the Lattice Strips
While the bottom crust cools, slice the second pie crust into 1-inch wide strips. Keeping the strips chilled by placing them in the fridge or on a cold surface prevents them from becoming too soft or sticky to work with. These strips will create that gorgeous lattice pattern that makes this Apple Pie with Canned Filling and Lattice Crust Recipe feel extra special.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine your canned apple pie filling with the optional fresh apple slices for added texture, brown sugar for sweetness, lemon juice for brightness, cornstarch to thicken, and all the spices along with a pinch of salt. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the flavors meld together perfectly while the cornstarch evenly thickens the juices when baked.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Spoon the filling into the partially baked pie crust, spreading it out evenly. Dot the top with small cubes of cold butter—these little pockets will melt and create a luscious richness within the filling. Now the fun part: weave the chilled lattice strips over the filling. Use longer strips for the center and shorter ones for the edges, carefully trimming and pinching the edges to seal. This lattice crust not only looks stunning but lets steam escape while baking, keeping the filling at the ideal consistency.
Step 5: Final Touches and Baking
Brush the entire top crust with egg wash to give it a beautiful shine. If you’re feeling extra cheeky, sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the lattice for a sweet, crispy crunch. Place your pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake at 400°F for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust turns a deep golden brown and the filling bubbles enticingly through the lattice. The smell alone will have you impatient to slice into it!
Step 6: Cooling and Serving
Patience is key here. Let your pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing to allow the filling to set fully. This prevents any oozing and helps you get those perfect slices that hold their shape. Serve warm or at room temperature, and don’t be shy about adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence.
How to Serve Apple Pie with Canned Filling and Lattice Crust Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle a little extra cinnamon sugar or powdered sugar just before serving for a pretty finish. Fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also make your slice look like it came from a fancy bakery.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream, or even a drizzle of warm caramel or maple sauce. A hot cup of coffee or chai tea alongside creates a cozy, satisfying dessert experience.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to make this dessert the star of the table, serve slices on rustic wooden platters with small bowls of extra ice cream and sauces for guests to customize. Miniature lattice pies in ramekins also make delightful gifts or individual servings for a party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover pie covered loosely with aluminum foil or plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps the crust flaky and the filling tender without it becoming soggy or dry.
Freezing
You can freeze the whole unbaked pie or baked slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm up before serving.
Reheating
Warm leftover slices in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked taste and crispy crust. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust flaky.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pie crust instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade crust adds a personal touch and can be tailored to your preference, whether you like it buttery, flaky, or whole wheat. Just make sure to chill it properly before rolling out and assembling your pie.
Is it necessary to add fresh apples, or can I just use canned filling?
The canned apple pie filling is delicious and ready to go on its own, but adding fresh tart apples gives your pie extra texture and a fresh zing that balances the sweetness nicely. It’s totally up to your taste.
Why do I need to pre-bake the bottom crust?
Pre-baking (also called blind baking) prevents the bottom crust from becoming soggy once the filling is added. It creates a sturdy, crispy base that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling.
Can I make the lattice crust look decorative?
Definitely! Aside from the classic weave, you can cut the extra dough into shapes like leaves or stars to decorate the edges or lattice intersections. It adds charm and is perfect for festive occasions.
What’s the best way to ensure clean slices?
Letting the pie cool completely for at least two hours helps the filling set, so when you slice it, your pieces hold together nicely. Using a sharp, serrated knife will also give you neat, beautiful slices.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Pie with Canned Filling and Lattice Crust Recipe is a perfect blend of convenience and classic homemade goodness that anyone can make with confidence. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, it will bring delight to your table every time. So go ahead, warm up that kitchen, and enjoy a slice of this timeless treat—it’s truly worth every bite!
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Apple Pie with Canned Filling and Lattice Crust Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 14 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Description
This classic Apple Pie recipe uses store-bought pie crusts and canned apple pie filling for a convenient yet delicious dessert. Enhanced with fresh tart apple slices, warm spices such as cinnamon, ginger, and allspice, and a touch of brown sugar and lemon juice, this pie boasts a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. A buttery lattice crust provides a golden, flaky finish. Ideal for gatherings or cozy family dinners, it pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 2 store-bought pie crusts (softened at room temperature)
- 1 additional pie crust (optional, for extra decorating or replacement)
- Egg wash: 1 large egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water
Filling
- 2 (20 oz) cans apple pie filling
- 1 tart apple, peeled and thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
- 3 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice (from 1 large lemon)
- 2 tablespoons corn starch
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground ginger
- ½ teaspoon ground allspice
- Pinch of salt
- ¼ cup butter, cut into small cubes
Topping
- Cinnamon sugar (optional: granulated sugar mixed with cinnamon) for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare Oven and Pie Crust: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Place one softened pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan, gently pressing it into place. Prick the bottom and sides of the crust with a fork to prevent bubbling, taking care not to pierce through.
- Blind Bake Crust: Chill the pie crust in the freezer for 15 minutes. Then, place pie weights, dry beans, or rice over the crust and bake for 15-18 minutes until it just starts to turn light brown. Remove the weights carefully.
- Finish First Crust: Brush the inside of the crust with the prepared egg wash and bake for an additional 3 minutes to seal it. Remove from the oven and allow it to cool slightly.
- Prepare Lattice Strips: While the crust cools, take the second pie crust and cut it into 1-inch wide strips. Place these strips on a sheet pan or inside a ziplock bag and refrigerate until later.
- Make the Filling: In a medium bowl, mix together the canned apple pie filling, optional fresh apple slices, brown sugar, lemon juice, corn starch, cinnamon, ground ginger, allspice, and pinch of salt until well combined.
- Assemble the Pie: Spoon the prepared filling into the cooled pie crust, evenly distributing it. Dot the filling on top with the cold butter cubes to add richness and flavor during baking.
- Create Lattice Topping: Arrange the chilled pie crust strips over the filling in a lattice pattern, using longer strips centered over the pie. Trim any excess dough, then seal the edges by pressing with a wet finger or crimping with a fork. You may also decorate the edges with cut-out shapes if desired.
- Apply Egg Wash and Sugar: Brush the entire lattice crust generously with the egg wash. Optionally, sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the top to achieve a golden, crinkled finish after baking.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the lattice.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to rest at room temperature for 2 hours before slicing. This resting time helps the filling to set, ensuring clean slices. Serve warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Store leftovers at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Notes
- Using an additional pie crust (third crust) is optional and useful for decorative pie edges or replacing any damaged dough.
- Blind baking the bottom crust prevents sogginess by sealing it before adding the filling.
- Chilling the crust strips before weaving helps maintain their shape and prevents dough from stretching.
- Adding fresh sliced tart apple enhances texture and tartness but can be omitted for simplicity.
- The resting time after baking is critical for the filling to set and makes slicing easier and cleaner.
- If you do not have pie weights, dry beans or uncooked rice can be a great alternative.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American


