Best Recipe for Apple Pie

I used to be a total Apple Pie hater. It’s always too mushy and bland. But no longer! I’ve found the perfect method to make the Best Homemade Apple Pie of your life! This classic recipe has a double crust (you won’t miss that crumble), a cooked filling for the best texture and flavor, and is super easy. I’ll show you how to make it from scratch!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet and tart apples, along with aromatic spices, creates an unforgettable taste.
• Perfect Texture: The cooked filling ensures each bite is firm yet tender, avoiding that dreaded mushiness.
• Versatile Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a birthday party, or just a cozy family dinner, this pie fits right in.
• Easy-to-Follow Steps: With straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can master this recipe.
• Homemade Goodness: Making your own pie crust and filling brings the comfort of homemade baking to your kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the Best Recipe for Apple Pie, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch pie dish
• High-sided skillet
• Microplane grater
• Potato peeler or apple peeler
• Rubber spatula
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch pie dish: A deep dish allows for ample filling and proper baking without overflow.
• High-sided skillet: Ideal for cooking the apple mixture evenly while preventing spillage.
• Microplane grater: Perfect for quickly zesting lemons without wasting any fruit.
• Rubber spatula: Helps scrape every bit of filling into your pie crust without damaging it.

Ingredients

• 1 homemade double pie crust (2 sheets of pie dough)
• 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
• juice from half a lemon (2 tablespoons)
• 5 pounds apples (5 pounds before peeling and coring*)
• 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 & 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 3/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 tablespoon milk (for brushing on pie)
• 1 tablespoon beaten egg (optional, for brushing on pie)
• 1 tablespoon raw sugar (for topping pie)

How to Make Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Step 1: Choose Your Apples

You need 5 pounds of apples for this recipe, which is about 11 large apples. I like to use a mix of apples for the best flavor. For this pie I used Granny Smith, Gala, and Golden Delicious.

Step 2: Make the Filling

Use a microplane grater to zest 1/4 teaspoon lemon peel into a high-sided skillet.

Step 3: Add Lemon Juice

Add the juice from half the lemon to the skillet, about 2 tablespoons.

Step 4: Prepare the Apples

Use a potato peeler or handy apple peeler to peel the apples. Slice them into 1/8 inch pieces. Stir them occasionally in the pan to coat with lemon juice.

Step 5: Cook the Apples

Set the skillet over medium heat on the stove once all apples are prepared.

Step 6: Mix Ingredients

Add brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom to the skillet. Stir gently so as not to break all the apples.

Step 7: Simmer

Cover with a lid but stir every few minutes. Cook for about 20 minutes until apples are fork-tender but still hold their shape.

Step 8: Add Vanilla

Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.

Step 9: Cool Filling

Transfer apple filling to a half sheet pan. Spread it out fully and cool it completely in the fridge or freezer for about 30 minutes.

Step 10: Roll Out Dough

Roll out your pie dough and place it in a deep pie dish with excess hanging over edges.

Step 11: Fill Pie Dish

Use a rubber spatula to scrape all chilled apple filling into the pie dish.

Step 12: Top with Crust

Place remaining dough over filling; you can do lattice or a full cover—both work deliciously!

Step 13: Crimp Edges

Fold edges in and crimp as desired. Vent by poking holes if not using lattice crust.

Step 14: Chill Pie

Place whole pie in fridge or freezer for about 20–30 minutes to achieve flakiness.

Step 15: Preheat Oven

Preheat oven to 425 degrees F while placing a baking sheet on center rack.

Step 16: Brush Crust

Right before baking, brush crust with milk or beat together with egg wash for shine.

Step 17: Add Sugar Topping

Sprinkle raw sugar on top of your pie before baking.

Step 18: Bake Initial Time

Bake chilled pie on baking sheet for about 15 minutes until edges start browning lightly.

Step 19: Prepare Foil Shield

Cut out center from foil square; place over crust after initial bake time.

Step 20: Lower Heat

Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees F; bake another 40–45 minutes, covered with foil shield.

Step 21: Check Doneness

Look for golden brown edges and bubbling filling in center as indicators it’s done.

Step 22: Cool Completely

Allow cooling on wire rack for about 4 hours. Patience is key!

Step23 : Serve

Once cooled slice up that delicious apple pie! Consider serving with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce!

Storage

Store at room temperature covered for up to two days; afterward transfer leftovers into refrigerator.

How to Serve Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Serving your Best Recipe for Apple Pie can elevate the experience and make it even more delightful. Here are some fantastic ideas on how to serve this classic dessert.

A La Mode

• Serve warm apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The creaminess of the ice cream complements the warm, spiced apples beautifully.

Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream. This adds a light and airy texture that balances the richness of the pie.

Caramel Drizzle

• Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the pie or individual slices. This sweet addition enhances the flavor and gives a gourmet touch.

Cheese Pairing

• Serve with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese. The savory notes from the cheese contrast well with the sweetness of the pie.

Coffee or Tea

• Pair your slice with a cup of coffee or herbal tea. The warmth from these beverages brings out the flavors in the pie and makes for a cozy dessert experience.

Nutty Toppings

• Sprinkle chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch. This introduces a different texture and flavor profile to every bite.

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How to Perfect Best Recipe for Apple Pie

To ensure your Best Recipe for Apple Pie turns out perfectly, consider these helpful tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Choose Quality Apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for depth of flavor. Granny Smith, Gala, and Honeycrisp work wonderfully together.
• Don’t Skip Chilling: Chill your pie crust before baking. This helps prevent shrinkage and ensures a flaky texture after baking.
• Taste as You Cook: Adjust sweetness by tasting the filling while cooking. You can easily modify sugar levels to suit your preference.
• Use Foil Wisely: Protect your crust from burning by using foil during part of the baking process, especially if making a double-crust pie.
• Let It Cool: Allowing the pie to cool completely before serving helps set the filling, resulting in neat slices without spilling.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices like cinnamon or nutmeg according to your taste, adding warmth and complexity to each bite.

Best Side Dishes for Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Pairing side dishes with your Best Recipe for Apple Pie can create an unforgettable meal experience. Here are some great options that complement this dessert perfectly.

1. Ice Cream: Vanilla or caramel ice cream pairs beautifully, offering creamy contrast against warm apple slices.
2. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, including sharp cheddar or creamy brie, provides savory balance alongside sweet apple pie.
3. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds freshness and brightens up your dessert table.
4. Coffee Cake: Serving slices of cinnamon coffee cake brings additional spice flavors that harmonize well with apple pie.
5. Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup as an appetizer creates a comforting combination, setting up guests nicely for dessert.
6. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts can be served as an appetizer or snack before dessert; they add crunch and warmth.
7. Whipped Cream Topping Bar: Offer various toppings like chocolate shavings or toasted coconut alongside whipped cream for customization.
8. Chai Latte: Serve chai lattes alongside pie; their spices echo those in apple pie making them perfect companions.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Best Recipe for Apple Pie can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using the wrong apples: Not all apples are created equal. Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples for depth of flavor.
• Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the pie filling to cool is crucial for the right texture. Don’t rush this step!
• Overworking the crust: Handling your dough too much can lead to a tough crust. Be gentle and keep it chilled.
• Not venting the pie: Poking holes in the crust allows steam to escape, preventing a soggy bottom. Don’t forget this important step!
• Ignoring baking temperatures: Preheating your oven ensures even baking. Make sure it’s hot enough before placing your pie inside.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your apple pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you have leftovers beyond that, transfer it to the refrigerator, where it will last for about 5 days.

Freezing Best Recipe for Apple Pie

• Wrap your cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Best Recipe for Apple Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Use medium power and heat individual slices for about 30-60 seconds.
• Stovetop: Heat slices covered in a skillet over low heat until warm, adding a little water to create steam if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What apples are best for apple pie?

The best recipe for apple pie typically uses a mix of Granny Smith, Gala, and Golden Delicious apples. This combination balances sweetness with tartness, enhancing flavor.

Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare your pie crust in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to use it.

How do I prevent my apple pie from getting soggy?

To avoid a soggy bottom, make sure to bake your pie on a preheated baking sheet and consider using a thickener like flour or cornstarch in your filling.

How long does it take to bake an apple pie?

The best recipe for apple pie requires about 15 minutes at 425°F followed by 40-45 minutes at 350°F. Keep an eye on it during baking!

Can I customize this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different spices or add-ins like raisins or cranberries for unique flavors that suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

This Best Recipe for Apple Pie is not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize it with different spices or toppings according to your preferences. So gather your ingredients and give this classic dessert a try; you won’t be disappointed!