There’s just something magical about a freshly baked apple pie. This Easy Apple Pie recipe has it all: a buttery crust, tender spiced apples, and that perfect golden-brown finish. Whether you’ve never baked before or you consider yourself a pie pro, this recipe is an absolute must-try. You’ll not only enjoy making it, but you’ll also love the smiles it brings. This pie is ideal for family dinners, holidays, or even a cozy weeknight treat.
Table of content
- About The Recipe
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- How to Make the Recipe(Step-by-Step)
- Expert Tips for Success
- Variations and Customizations
- Nutritional Information
- Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Recipe Card
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Comments & Reviews
- Social Sharing Options
About The Easy Apple Pie Recipe
When you think of desserts that bring comfort, warmth, and a little crunchy sweetness, apple pie has to be at the top of the list. It’s a dessert that isn’t just delicious but also steeped in a rich history. Did you know pies like this date back centuries? It’s believed apple pie made its way to the U.S. with European settlers and has become a symbol of home-cooked goodness. What makes this recipe extra special is that it takes apple pie back to basics while ensuring ease and flavor come out on top. The Easy Apple Pie recipe we’re sharing today will fill your kitchen with the smell of cinnamon and apples. Plus, it’s forgiving, so even if you’re not comfortable in the kitchen, you’ll still end up with something that tastes amazing. Pro-tip from all of us at BellRecipes: making an apple pie can be a bonding moment for families. Imagine peeling apples with the kids or sharing a slice with your significant other while it’s still warm from the oven. It’s a dessert that’s about more than just taste – it’s about creating memories.Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A simple-to-follow recipe perfect for beginners
- Uses everyday ingredients you probably already have
- The perfect balance of sweet apples and warm cinnamon
- Versatile – great for Thanksgiving, birthdays, or just because
- Ideal for making ahead and storing
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- Apples – Granny Smith apples work best for their tart flavor, but Honeycrisp or Fuji are great substitutions.
- Pie Crust – Pre-made is fine for simplicity, but you can use a homemade crust if you’re feeling adventurous.
- Cinnamon – Adds the warm, spicy note that makes apple pie irresistible.
- Sugar – Adjust to taste depending on how tart your apples are.
- Butter – For that rich, golden topping.
- Lemon Juice – Helps balance the sweetness and keeps your apples from browning.
How to Make the Recipe (Step-by-Step)
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready when your pie is.
- Peel, core, and slice your apples into thin pieces. Toss them with cinnamon, sugar, and a splash of lemon juice in a big bowl.
- Roll out your pie crust and drape it across your pie dish. Make sure it fits snugly so there’s no air between the crust and the dish.
- Fill the crust with your apple mixture, making sure to mound it high – the apples will cook down!
- Add the top crust (lattice-style if you’re feeling fancy) and seal the edges by crimping with a fork.
- Brush the crust with some melted butter and sprinkle sugar on top for a delicious golden finish.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the apples look bubbly.
- Cool for at least 15-20 minutes before slicing so the filling can set.
Expert Tips for Success
Use cold butter for the flakiest crust.
Toss your apple slices in lemon juice as soon as you cut them to keep them from turning brown.
Pie shields or foil edges protect your crust from browning too fast.
Always let your pie cool before cutting; it’ll help secure the filling.
If you like a sweeter pie, mix in a touch of brown sugar with your white sugar.
Variations and Customizations
Want to give your pie a twist? Swap out regular sugar for brown sugar for a deeper caramel-like sweetness or mix in a handful of cranberries for a tart punch. Try adding a bit of nutmeg or even cloves for a spicier pie. For a modern twist, bake individual apple hand pies instead of one big pie – perfect for parties or picnics. If you prefer gluten-free, use gluten-free pie crust and check your spices too.
Nutritional Information
This Easy Apple Pie comes in at approximately 350 calories per slice (assuming 8 slices). It’s got around 50g carbs, 15g fat (from that buttery crust – worth it, trust us), and 2g protein. Apples and cinnamon bring some antioxidants to the table as well. It’s not something to eat every day, but it’s a perfect indulgence for special moments or Sunday dinners.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Leftover pie? Simply cover and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat slices in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes, or pop a single serving in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. The oven method keeps the crust flaky, while the microwave is great for a quick fix. Bonus tip: warm it up and serve with vanilla ice cream for a next-level dessert.
Recipe Card of Easy Apple Pie
Ingredients list
- 1 (14.1 ounce) package pastry for a 9-inch double-crust pie
- 0.75 cup white sugar or more to taste
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 6 cups thinly sliced apples
- 1 tablespoon butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Set your oven to preheat at 450°F (230°C).
- Line a 9-inch pie plate with one of the pastry crusts; reserve the second crust for later.
- Blend 3/4 cup sugar with cinnamon in a small bowl. Add more sugar if your apples are quite tart.
- In the pie dish, layer your apple slices evenly, dusting each layer with the cinnamon sugar mix.
- Dot the top apple layer with small butter chunks, then gently place the reserved top crust over everything.
- Bake your pie on the oven's lowest rack for 10 minutes, then lower the heat to 350°F (175°C). Let it bake until it turns a golden brown and the filling is bubbly, approximately 30-35 more minutes.
- Enjoy your pie either warm or chilled; the choice is yours!
Recipe Video
Notes
Nutrition
All Your Questions About This Recipe
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the entire pie and store it in the fridge before baking or bake it, let it cool, and reheat before serving.
What are the best apples for this recipe?
Granny Smith is a fan favorite because they’re tart, but Honeycrisp, Fuji, or even Golden Delicious work well too. A mix of apples can also add depth to your pie.
Do I have to use store-bought crust?
Nope! While store-bought saves time, a homemade crust can add a layer of personal touch and taste.
How can I tell if my pie is done?
Look for a golden-brown crust and bubbling filling. You might want to place a baking sheet underneath to catch any drips while baking.
Can I freeze this pie?
Yes! Make sure it’s completely cooled before wrapping it in plastic wrap and foil. It’ll last in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat for a delicious treat any time.