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 Recipe for 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 creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Perfect Texture: With a cooked filling, this apple pie avoids mushiness while ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.
• Easy to Follow: This straightforward recipe guides you step-by-step, making it accessible even for beginner bakers.
• Versatile for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday, a family gathering, or just a special treat, this pie fits perfectly into any event.
• Homemade Goodness: Nothing beats the satisfaction of serving a warm, homemade dessert straight from your kitchen.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch pie dish
• Mixing bowls
• Skillet
• Microplane grater
• Rubber spatula
• Baking sheet

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch pie dish: A deep dish allows for ample filling and ensures even baking throughout.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls and ensuring you get every last bit of filling into your pie crust.

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

Select about 11 large apples to reach the required weight of five pounds. A mix such as Granny Smith, Gala, and Golden Delicious offers great flavor balance.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Use a microplane grater to zest 1/4 teaspoon lemon peel into a skillet. Add juice from half the lemon, about two tablespoons.

Step 3: Peel and Slice Apples

Using an apple peeler or potato peeler, peel your apples. Slice them into 1/8 inch pieces. To prevent browning, peel one apple at a time, immediately slicing it before moving to the next.

Step 4: Cook the Filling

Place the sliced apples in the skillet over medium heat. Add 3/4 cup packed brown sugar, 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 5 tablespoons flour, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1 & 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon, 3/4 teaspoon nutmeg, and 1/2 teaspoon cardamom. Stir gently to combine without breaking the apples.

Step 5: Simmer

Cover with a lid and cook for twenty minutes. Stir every three minutes until the apples are fork-tender but still hold their shape.

Step 6: Add Vanilla

Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla. Let cool completely in a pan or transfer to another container.

Step 7: Prepare Pie Crust

Roll out your dough and place it in your deep dish. Ensure there is excess dough hanging over the edges.

Step 8: Fill Pie Dish

Transfer cooled apple filling into the prepared crust using a rubber spatula to scrape every last bit in.

Step 9: Top with Second Crust

Place the other sheet of dough over the filling. Crimp edges or create vents as desired.

Step 10: Chill Before Baking

Refrigerate or freeze your assembled pie for about twenty to thirty minutes for optimal flakiness.

Step 11: Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F, allowing at least twenty-five minutes for it to reach temperature.

Step 12: Brush with Milk or Egg

Before baking, brush the top crust with milk or beaten egg for color.

Step 13: Bake Initially

Bake on a baking sheet for fifteen minutes until edges start turning light brown.

Step 14: Create Foil Shield

Prepare foil by cutting out a circle in its center. This will protect your crust from burning during longer baking times.

Step 15: Reduce Heat & Continue Baking

Lower oven temperature to 350°F, cover with foil shield, and bake an additional forty-five minutes until done.

Step 16: Cool Down

Let your pie cool on wire racks for about four hours before slicing. Patience is key here!

Once completely cool, slice up your Best Recipe for Apple Pie! Enjoy it plain or add ice cream or caramel sauce for an extra treat!

How to Serve Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Serving the Best Recipe for Apple Pie is all about enhancing its delicious flavors while providing a cozy experience. Here are some delightful ways to serve this classic dessert.

Classic Pairings

• Vanilla Ice Cream – A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a rich contrast to the warm pie.
• Whipped Cream – Light and airy, whipped cream complements the pie’s sweetness perfectly.

Drizzles and Sauces

• Caramel Sauce – A drizzle of caramel sauce over each slice adds a touch of indulgence.
• Chocolate Sauce – For chocolate lovers, a touch of chocolate sauce can create a delightful fusion.

Fresh Fruits

• Berries – Fresh blueberries or raspberries provide a tart balance that brightens each bite.
• Sliced Bananas – Adding banana slices introduces a different texture and flavor profile.

How to Perfect Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Perfecting the Best Recipe for Apple Pie requires attention to detail and some tried-and-true techniques. Here are some tips to elevate your pie-making skills.

• Bold Apple Selection – Choose a mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Gala, for balanced flavor.
• Bold Dough Preparation – Ensure your pie crust is cold before baking; this helps achieve that flaky texture.
• Bold Filling Cooling – Allow the apple filling to cool completely before assembling; this prevents a soggy bottom crust.
• Bold Baking Temperature – Start with high heat to set the crust, then lower it to ensure even cooking throughout.
• Bold Venting Crust – If not using a lattice top, make sure to cut vents in the crust to let steam escape.

Best Side Dishes for Best Recipe for Apple Pie

Pairing side dishes with your Best Recipe for Apple Pie can enhance your meal experience. Here are some wonderful options.

1. Cheddar Cheese – Sharp cheddar offers a savory contrast that pairs wonderfully with sweet apple pie.
2. Coffee – A cup of strong coffee complements the pie’s flavors, making it perfect for after dinner.
3. Cinnamon Sugar Toast – Simple yet effective, cinnamon sugar toast brings extra warmth and sweetness to your dessert table.
4. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad can cleanse the palate between bites of rich apple pie.
5. Yogurt Parfait – A yogurt parfait layered with granola adds crunch and creaminess alongside the pie.
6. Nutty Granola Bars – Chewy granola bars can serve as a hearty side option that complements the soft pie well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making the Best Recipe for Apple Pie can be simple, but there are a few common pitfalls that can ruin your pie. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Using the wrong apple variety: Not all apples are made for pie. Choose a mix of tart and sweet varieties like Granny Smith and Gala for the best flavor.
• Skipping the cooling step: Rushing to slice your pie while it’s still hot can lead to a messy filling. Allow it to cool completely for the right texture.
• Overworking the dough: If you knead your pie crust too much, it can become tough. Handle it gently and keep it cold for a flaky crust.
• Not seasoning enough: Failing to add spices can result in a bland pie. Don’t skip on the cinnamon and nutmeg; they enhance the apple flavor significantly.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at inconsistent temperatures can lead to uneven cooking. Preheat your oven properly and monitor the temperature throughout.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with plastic wrap.
• If you need more time, transfer it into the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Best Recipe for Apple Pie

• Wrap your completely cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, before freezing.
• It can last up to 3 months in the freezer without losing flavor.

Reheating Best Recipe for Apple Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for about 30-60 seconds, checking regularly.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm together with a bit of water for moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions people have when making the Best Recipe for Apple Pie.

How do I prevent my apple pie from being watery?

To prevent a soggy bottom crust, ensure you cook your apple filling before adding it to the crust. This will help evaporate excess moisture.

Can I use frozen apples in this recipe?

Yes! You can use frozen apples, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using them in your filling.

What is the best way to slice apples?

Use a sharp knife or an apple slicer for even slices that will cook uniformly. Thin slices (about 1/8 inch) work best.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use non-dairy milk instead of egg or milk wash on top of the crust.

How long should I let my apple pie cool?

Letting your pie cool for about four hours is essential. This allows the filling to set properly so it won’t spill out when sliced.

Final Thoughts

The Best Recipe for Apple Pie is not just delicious; its versatility allows you to customize it with various spices or even different types of fruit. Whether serving at a gathering or enjoying at home, this classic dessert is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy experimenting with flavors!