If you have a soft spot for classic desserts that bring warmth and comfort with every bite, you are going to adore The BEST Apple Pie Recipe from Scratch Recipe. This homemade pie captures the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with tender, cinnamon-kissed apples nestled in a flaky, buttery crust made entirely from scratch. From the first slice to the last crumb, it’s a celebration of cozy autumn afternoons and family gatherings, all baked into one unforgettable dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll find that the ingredients for this recipe are wonderfully simple and refreshingly wholesome. Each plays a crucial role—whether it’s highlighting the natural sweetness of the apples, adding spice, or ensuring a perfect, golden crust that’s just the right texture.
- 6 large apples (Granny Smith, Pink Lady, or Honeycrisp): These varieties bring the right combo of tartness and sweetness for that ideal apple pie flavor and texture.
- ⅔ cup sugar: Sweetens the filling naturally without overpowering the apples.
- 2-3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the juicy apple filling as it bakes.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the apple flavor while preventing browning.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Adds a subtle citrusy freshness to enhance the pie’s complexity.
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Infuses the pie with warm, aromatic spice that defines the classic taste.
- ⅛ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and rounds out the flavors.
- 1 recipe double pie crust: A homemade crust is key for the perfect flaky texture and buttery richness.
- 1 large egg (for egg wash): Gives the crust a beautiful, golden shine.
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash): Helps the egg wash spread evenly for that perfect finish.
- Raw sugar (for sprinkling): Adds a subtle crunch and sparkle on top of the crust.
How to Make The BEST Apple Pie Recipe from Scratch Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Apples
Start by peeling, coring, and slicing your apples into ¼-inch thick pieces. Toss them gently in a large bowl with fresh lemon juice and zest to keep the fruit bright and fresh while you prepare the filling.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
Sprinkle sugar, flour, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt over the apples. Stir until every slice is evenly coated with this delicious blend. Let this mixture sit for about 15 minutes; this rest time allows the apples to release their natural juices and soften slightly, making your pie even more flavorful.
Step 3: Prepare the Pie Crust
Roll out your bottom pie crust to a 12-inch circle, then gently place it into a 9-inch pie plate. Let the dough hang over the edges—it’s crucial for securing the top crust later and ensuring a sturdy, flaky rim.
Step 4: Fill the Crust
Pour the apple mixture into the crust, spreading it out evenly. Dot the filling with small pads of butter; these little morsels melt during baking to add richness and a velvety texture to your filling.
Step 5: Add the Top Crust
If you’re feeling creative, roll out and cut your top dough into strips to weave a classic lattice. Otherwise, place the second solid crust over the filling and trim any excess dough. Pinch the edges together to seal in all those delicious juices.
Step 6: Apply the Egg Wash
Whisk together the egg and milk, then brush this mixture generously over the top crust. This step gives your pie a gorgeous golden shine and helps the raw sugar adhere, adding a tempting sparkle and slight crunch.
Step 7: Bake Your Pie
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Bake the pie for 15 minutes to set the crust, then reduce the temperature to 350°F. Continue baking for another 40 minutes until the filling is bubbling and the apples are tender. The crust will be perfectly golden and crisp, promising a blissful first bite every time.
How to Serve The BEST Apple Pie Recipe from Scratch Recipe
Garnishes
A simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream transforms this pie into an indulgent treat. For a little extra pop, sprinkle cinnamon or drizzle caramel sauce on top.
Side Dishes
Serve alongside a warm cup of spiced cider or a fragrant cup of tea to complement the pie’s cozy flavors. A slice paired with sharp cheddar cheese can add an unexpectedly delightful twist too.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the pie into rustic wedges and serving on individual wooden boards for a charming, homemade feel. Or, turn leftovers into mini hand pies or turnovers for an easy grab-and-go snack that keeps the spirit of The BEST Apple Pie Recipe from Scratch Recipe alive in every bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover apple pie keeps beautifully covered at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate it to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze the fully baked pie or the unbaked pie dough wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Baked pies freeze best when sliced and stored in airtight containers or wrapped well to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, warm slices in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes, which revives the flaky crust and melty filling. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep that crisp texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use any type of apples for this pie?
While you can use different apple varieties, Granny Smith, Pink Lady, or Honeycrisp are recommended because they hold their shape well and offer a great balance of sweetness and tartness that makes The BEST Apple Pie Recipe from Scratch Recipe truly shine.
Is it necessary to make the pie crust from scratch?
Making the crust from scratch adds a fresh, buttery flakiness that really lifts this recipe; however, store-bought crusts can be used in a pinch, although you might miss out on some of that homemade charm.
Why do you add lemon juice and zest to the apples?
Lemon juice prevents the apples from browning and adds a subtle brightness that enhances the flavor, while the zest gives a hint of fresh citrus aroma to complement the cinnamon-spiced filling.
Can I prepare the pie a day in advance?
Absolutely! Assemble your pie and keep it refrigerated, then bake it fresh on the day you plan to serve. This keeps the crust flaky and the filling perfectly juicy.
What if I want a gluten-free version?
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for the filling, and use a gluten-free pie crust recipe or pre-made crust to enjoy The BEST Apple Pie Recipe from Scratch Recipe without gluten worries.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about pulling a homemade apple pie fresh out of the oven—its inviting aroma and comforting flavors never fail to warm the heart. I hope you dive into this The BEST Apple Pie Recipe from Scratch Recipe with joy and share it with those you love. Once you try this classic done right, you’ll find yourself reaching for your rolling pin again and again!
Print
The BEST Apple Pie Recipe from Scratch Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This classic homemade apple pie recipe combines tart and sweet apples with a buttery double crust, creating a perfectly balanced dessert. Fresh lemon juice and zest enhance the apple flavors, while cinnamon adds a comforting warmth. The pie is baked to golden perfection with a crispy lattice or full crust, making it an irresistible treat for family and friends.
Ingredients
Filling
- 6 large apples (Granny Smith, Pink Lady, or Honeycrisp)
- ⅔ cup sugar
- 2–3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter (small pads for dotting)
Crust and Topping
- 1 recipe double pie crust
- 1 large egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
- Raw sugar (for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Prepare Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into ¼-inch thick slices. Place them in a large bowl and add fresh lemon juice and lemon zest to prevent browning and enhance flavor.
- Mix Filling Ingredients: Sprinkle sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and salt evenly over the apples. Mix gently until the apples are well coated to help thicken the filling during baking and add spice.
- Rest Apple Mixture: Let the apple mixture sit for 15 minutes. This allows the juices to release and the apples to become slightly tender, improving the texture of the filling.
- Prepare Pie Crust: Roll out the bottom pie crust into a 12-inch circle and transfer it to a 9-inch pie plate, letting the dough hang over the edges to prepare for sealing the top crust.
- Add Filling: Fill the crust with the apple mixture and evenly distribute small pads of butter on top to add richness and buttery flavor during baking.
- Create Top Crust: If making a lattice crust, roll out the second crust and cut into strips, then weave across the pie alternately. Otherwise, place the second crust whole over the apples and trim excess dough, sealing edges by crimping.
- Egg Wash and Sugar: Whisk together the egg and milk, then brush this egg wash evenly over the top crust to achieve a golden color. Sprinkle raw sugar on top for added sweetness and a crunchy texture.
- Bake Pie: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the pie at this temperature for 15 minutes to set the crust, then reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 40 minutes, until the filling is bubbling and apples are tender.
Notes
- Use tart and firm apples like Granny Smith, Pink Lady, or Honeycrisp to maintain texture during baking.
- Adjust sugar quantity depending on apple sweetness.
- Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before serving to allow filling to set properly.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute pie crust with a gluten-free recipe.
- Use chilled butter and ice water for making the crust to achieve a flakier texture.
- If the crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil during baking.
