Name: Classic American Apple Pie
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6-8 medium-sized Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces; 1 package of refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade, if preferred); 1 egg (for egg wash); 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Classic American Apple Pie is the perfect balance of sweet, tart, and spicy flavors. The tender apples are perfectly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a filling that’s both warm and comforting. The buttery, flaky crust complements the rich filling, creating a dessert that is satisfying and delicious. It’s an easy-to-make pie that will impress your guests or make any occasion feel special.

Ingredients

6-8 medium-sized Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
1 package of refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade, if preferred)
1 egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss the ingredients together to ensure the apples are evenly coated.
Roll out one of the pie crusts and line a 9-inch pie dish with it.
Pour the apple filling into the pie crust, spreading it out evenly. Dot the filling with small pieces of butter.
Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the top of the apples. Trim any excess dough, then crimp the edges together to seal the pie.
Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking.
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk to create an egg wash. Brush the egg wash over the top crust.
Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 2 hours before serving to let the filling set.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 45-50 minutes
Cooling time: 2 hours

Variations

Cinnamon Swirl: Add a cinnamon-sugar mixture between layers of the apples for an extra swirl of flavor.
Caramel Apple Pie: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple filling before placing the top crust for a rich, sweet twist.
Gluten-Free Apple Pie: Substitute a gluten-free pie crust and use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this recipe suitable for gluten sensitivities.
Apple Pear Pie: Combine apples and pears for a fruity mix that adds extra depth to the flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftover pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the pie, where it will last for up to 4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place a slice of pie in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or bake in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple for this pie?

Yes, while Granny Smith apples are often preferred for their tartness, you can use other varieties like Honeycrisp or Gala for a sweeter pie.

Should I peel the apples for apple pie?

Yes, peeling the apples is important to create the perfect texture in the filling. The skin can become tough when baked.

How do I prevent my pie crust from getting soggy?

To prevent a soggy bottom, consider pre-baking the crust for 5-10 minutes before adding the apple filling, or sprinkle a thin layer of flour or breadcrumbs on the bottom crust.

Can I make the crust from scratch?

Absolutely! You can make a homemade pie crust using flour, butter, salt, and cold water. There are many recipes available for a buttery, flaky crust if you prefer to go the extra mile.

Can I freeze this pie?

Yes, you can freeze an unbaked pie. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, you can cook it directly from frozen; just add an extra 10-15 minutes of baking time.

How do I know when the pie is done baking?

The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and you can see bubbling filling through the slits in the top crust. You can also check by inserting a knife into the filling—if it comes out hot, the pie is ready.

Can I make this pie without a top crust?

Yes, you can make an open-faced apple pie, which is a variation often called a “Dutch apple pie.” It features a streusel topping instead of a full crust.

Can I use pre-sliced apples for convenience?

While fresh, sliced apples are ideal, you can use pre-sliced apples if you’re in a hurry, but make sure they’re not pre-packaged with preservatives, as that may alter the texture and flavor.

How do I prevent the apples from browning while preparing the pie?

Tossing the sliced apples with lemon juice as mentioned in the recipe helps prevent browning. If needed, cover the apples and refrigerate them until you’re ready to assemble the pie.

Can I add nuts to the filling?

Yes, adding chopped walnuts or pecans can add a crunchy texture and a nutty flavor to the filling. Just sprinkle them in with the apples.

Conclusion

Classic American Apple Pie is a dessert that embodies warmth and tradition. With its perfect balance of spiced apples and buttery crust, it’s sure to be a hit for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or making pie for the first time, this recipe is simple to follow and guarantees delicious results. Enjoy a slice of this comforting dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate treat!