Name: Apple Pie With Graham Cracker Crust
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 3 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: For the crust:; 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 6 tablespoons melted butter; Pinch of salt; For the filling:; 6 cups sliced apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix); 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour or cornstarch; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Optional: 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pie is simple to make and doesn’t require rolling out dough, making it a great option for beginner bakers. The graham cracker crust adds a toasty, sweet crunch that perfectly complements the soft, cinnamon-spiced apples. It’s lighter than a traditional double-crust pie and can be made ahead of time. Plus, it’s just as delicious warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream as it is chilled the next day.

Ingredients

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

For the crust:

Graham cracker crumbs
Granulated sugar
Melted butter
A pinch of salt

For the filling:

Fresh apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
Brown sugar
Granulated sugar
Cinnamon
Nutmeg
Lemon juice
All-purpose flour or cornstarch (for thickening)
Vanilla extract
Optional: butter for dotting on top before baking

Directions

Make the crust: In a bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs, sugar, melted butter, and a pinch of salt until the mixture resembles wet sand.
Press firmly into the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie dish. Use the back of a measuring cup to smooth and compact the crust.
Bake the crust at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes. Let it cool slightly while you prepare the filling.
Make the filling: Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples.
In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, flour or cornstarch, and vanilla extract.
Pour the apple mixture into the pre-baked crust.
Dot the top with small pieces of butter (optional).
Cover loosely with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10–15 minutes until apples are tender and the filling is bubbling.
Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set before slicing.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8 people.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 50–55 minutes
Cooling time: 2 hours
Total time: About 3 hours 15 minutes

Variations

Add a streusel topping made with oats, brown sugar, flour, and butter for extra texture.
Mix in raisins or dried cranberries with the apples.
Add a splash of apple brandy or bourbon to the filling for depth of flavor.
Use gingersnap crumbs or crushed digestive biscuits instead of graham crackers.
Make it dairy-free by using plant-based butter.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or bake the whole pie at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes.
This pie can also be frozen (baked or unbaked) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought graham cracker crust?

Yes, it works fine and saves time, though homemade has a better texture and flavor.

What are the best apples for this pie?

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices because they hold their shape and provide a good balance of tart and sweet.

Do I have to pre-bake the crust?

Yes, pre-baking ensures it doesn’t get soggy under the juicy apple filling.

How do I keep the graham cracker crust from crumbling?

Press it firmly into the pan and don’t skip the pre-bake step—it helps the crust set.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake it a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature or in the fridge.

Is this pie overly sweet?

No, the tartness of the apples balances the sweet crust and sugars in the filling. You can adjust sugar levels to your taste.

Can I use apple pie filling from a can?

Yes, though fresh apples provide better texture and flavor. If using canned, reduce the baking time.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free graham crackers and a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch for the filling.

What’s the best way to serve it?

Warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream is a classic pairing, but it’s also great chilled.

Can I freeze the pie?

Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge and warm in the oven before serving.

Conclusion

Apple pie with graham cracker crust is a sweet and satisfying twist on the traditional favorite. It’s easy to make, full of cozy flavor, and the perfect balance of crunchy crust and tender apple filling. Whether you’re baking for a holiday or a weeknight dessert, this pie is sure to be a crowd-pleaser that disappears fast.