If you’ve ever dreamed of creating a perfect slice of homemade goodness, look no further than this Homemade Apple Pie: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for 8 Servings Recipe. It’s the kind of pie that fills your kitchen with the warm, spicy aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg while delivering a sweet-tart apple filling wrapped in a buttery, flaky crust. Trust me, there’s nothing quite like biting into a slice of this pie to make you feel like you’ve mastered the art of classic American baking. Whether it’s for a cozy family gathering or a special holiday treat, this incredible recipe is guaranteed to impress and satisfy every crowd.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this homemade apple pie lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, from the buttery crust that provides a tender, flaky base to the perfectly spiced filling that bursts with flavor and just the right amount of sweetness. Here’s what you’ll need to bring your pie to life:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour for the crust: Gives the dough structure and flakiness.
- 1 teaspoon salt for the crust: Enhances all the flavors subtly.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar for the crust: Adds a touch of sweetness and helps with browning.
- 1 cup unsalted butter chilled and cubed: The secret to that coveted flaky texture in the crust.
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water: Keeps the dough cold and helps bring it together without toughness.
- 6 cups peeled and thinly sliced Granny Smith apples for the filling: Tart and firm apples hold up beautifully during baking.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar for the filling: Sweetens and balances the tartness of the apples.
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar: Brings a deep, caramel-like richness.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the filling juices so they’re not runny.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Adds extra thickening power to the filling.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The classic spice that pairs perfectly with apples.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds just a hint of warm spice complexity.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the flavor and prevents browning of the apples.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth and a sweet aroma.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter cut into small pieces: Dotting on top creates a luscious, buttery finish inside the pie.
- 1 large egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water for egg wash: Gives the crust a beautiful golden shine.
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar for topping (optional): Adds sparkle and a satisfying crunch.
How to Make Homemade Apple Pie: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for 8 Servings Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by whisking together the flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl—this is the foundation of your crust. Then, cut in the chilled butter using a pastry cutter or just your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. The key here is to keep the butter cold, which creates those perfect flakey pockets you’re aiming for. Slowly add ice water, a tablespoon at a time, mixing lightly until the dough just holds together. Divide into two discs, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and pop them into the fridge for at least one hour. This rest time chills the dough and relaxes gluten, making it easier to roll out later.
Step 2: Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Filling
Preheat your oven to 400°F so it’s ready when you need it. While it warms, toss your sliced Granny Smith apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix gently but thoroughly—your goal is even coating without bruising the apples. These seasonings and thickeners transform fresh apples into a luscious, bubbling filling that’s bursting with flavor.
Step 3: Roll Out and Assemble the Pie
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one dough disc into a 12-inch circle and carefully lay it into a 9-inch pie dish, making sure it fits without stretching. Pour the apple filling into the crust, spreading it evenly, then dot the filling with small pieces of butter—that little touch makes the inside silky and rich. Roll out the second disc and cover the pie, trimming any excess dough from the edges and crimping to seal perfectly. Don’t forget to cut a few small slits on top to help steam escape during baking. Brush the crust with the beaten egg wash for that golden finish, and sprinkle with coarse sugar if you want a little extra sparkle.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake your pie for 45 to 55 minutes, watching for a golden brown crust and bubbling filling as your signals that the pie is done. If the edges brown too quickly, loosely cover them with foil halfway through baking to prevent burning. The slow transformation happening in your oven is exactly where the magic happens, turning simple ingredients into a slice of happiness.
Step 5: Cool Before Serving
After baking, patience is your friend here. Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This allows the juices to thicken and the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring each slice holds together and tastes perfectly balanced.
How to Serve Homemade Apple Pie: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for 8 Servings Recipe
Garnishes
Added garnishes can take your pie to the next level. A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream is a no-brainer classic, melting just right over warm slices. Whipped cream dusted with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce also complements the flavors wonderfully. If you’re feeling fancy, a few toasted pecans sprinkled on top add a delightful crunch and nutty contrast.
Side Dishes
This pie shines as a dessert star but pairs beautifully with a hot cup of spiced tea, fresh brewed coffee, or even a subtle glass of apple cider to echo those fresh apple flavors. For an extra indulgent touch, try serving alongside a dollop of crème fraîche or a small wedge of sharp cheddar cheese—yes, this unexpected pairing works amazingly well!
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve your pie on a rustic wooden board and garnish the plate with fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks. If you’re hosting, slice the pie ahead and arrange the slices on pretty dessert plates with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. You could even create mini individual pies using this recipe for a charming presentation perfect for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Homemade Apple Pie: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for 8 Servings Recipe is equally delightful the next day. Store any leftover slices covered at room temperature for up to two days to keep the crust crisp. If you want to stretch it further, refrigerate for up to four days; just allow the pie to come to room temperature or warm slightly before serving to enjoy that fresh-baked texture.
Freezing
You can definitely freeze your apple pie for future enjoyment. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To bring your pie back to life, reheat slices in a preheated 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until warmed through and the crust regains a bit of crispness. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the flaky texture intact—oven reheating is the way to go!
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are perfect for their tartness and firm texture, mixing in sweeter apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji adds a lovely balance and complexity to your filling.
What if I don’t have cornstarch? Can I skip it?
You can substitute the cornstarch with an equal amount of all-purpose flour, but keep in mind the thickening might not be as strong. The filling could be slightly looser but still delicious.
How do I prevent the crust edges from burning?
Cover the edges with foil or a pie crust shield halfway through baking to protect them from over-browning while the rest of the pie finishes baking perfectly.
Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Yes! The crust dough can be made up to two days ahead and kept securely wrapped in the refrigerator. Just let it come to a cooler temperature before rolling out.
What is the best way to slice this pie?
Use a sharp, serrated knife and wipe it clean between cuts to ensure clean, beautiful slices. Cooling the pie completely helps maintain the integrity of each slice when cutting.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about baking and sharing this Homemade Apple Pie: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for 8 Servings Recipe. Its rich flavors and classic texture bring comfort and joy no matter the occasion. So grab your rolling pin and apples, because this pie is waiting to become one of your favorite go-to dessert recipes for family, friends, and anyone who appreciates a slice of homemade happiness.
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Homemade Apple Pie: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe for 8 Servings Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic homemade apple pie recipe delivers the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors with a flaky, buttery crust. Made from scratch using Granny Smith apples and warm spices, it bakes to golden perfection and is ideal as a comforting dessert for family gatherings or holiday celebrations. With a tender yet crisp crust and a luscious, bubbling filling, this pie is sure to become a cherished favorite.
Ingredients
For the Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 6 cups peeled and thinly sliced Granny Smith apples
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
For Assembly:
- 1 large egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the chilled butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water one tablespoon at a time, mixing just until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) to get it ready for baking the pie.
- Make the filling: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Toss everything until the apples are evenly coated.
- Roll out the bottom crust: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish, ensuring it covers the bottom and sides evenly.
- Add the filling: Pour the apple mixture into the crust and dot the filling with the small pieces of butter to add richness.
- Top crust and seal: Roll out the second dough disc and place it over the filling. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal the pie securely. Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Apply egg wash and sugar: Brush the top crust with the beaten egg wash to create a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired for added texture and sweetness.
- Bake the pie: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them loosely with foil to prevent burning.
- Cool before serving: Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set properly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For best flavor, use a mixture of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith combined with Honeycrisp.
- Letting the pie cool completely helps the filling set and makes slicing easier and less messy.
- Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
