There’s something absolutely magical about a classic apple pie that fills the kitchen with warmth and nostalgia. Just think about it—coming home to the sweet aroma of cinnamon and baked apples, it’s like a hug in dessert form! This pie has been a staple in many households, and it’s no wonder why. With its flaky, golden crust and tender, spiced apple filling, each slice brings comfort and joy. Whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just a cozy night in, this classic apple pie is a must-try recipe that never fails to impress. Trust me, once you take that first bite, you’ll be transported to a world of delicious memories. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get baking!
Ingredients List
Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this delectable classic apple pie. I promise, these ingredients come together beautifully to create that perfect balance of sweet and spicy. Let’s gather:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
- 6 to 8 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (I like a mix of tart and sweet apples!)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (for that fresh zing!)
Make sure your butter is nice and cold—it helps create that flaky crust we all dream about! Now, let’s get ready to bake!
How to Prepare Classic Apple Pie
Now, let’s dive into the fun part—putting this classic apple pie together! Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to baking a pie that’ll make your taste buds dance. First things first, preheat your oven to a toasty 425°F (220°C). This is crucial for that perfect golden crust!
Preparing the Pie Crust
In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and sugar until well combined. Then, add the chilled, diced butter. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix it all together until it resembles coarse crumbs—this is where the magic for a flaky crust happens! Next, gradually add in ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough forms. Don’t overwork it! Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, and wrap in plastic wrap. Chill them in the fridge for at least 30 minutes—this step is key for a tender crust!
Making the Apple Filling
While the dough chills, let’s prepare the apple filling! In a large bowl, toss your peeled, cored, and sliced apples with the sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Make sure every slice is coated in that sweet, spicy goodness! The lemon juice adds a lovely brightness that balances the sweetness of the apples. Set this mixture aside to let the flavors meld together for about 10 minutes.
Assembling the Classic Apple Pie
Once your dough is chilled, roll out one disc on a lightly floured surface until it’s about 1/8 inch thick. Carefully place it in your pie pan, letting the excess hang over the edges. Now, pour the apple filling into the crust, spreading it evenly. Roll out the second disc and place it over the filling. Trim any excess dough and pinch the edges to seal the pie, making sure it’s nice and secure. Finally, cut a few slits in the top crust to let steam escape—this helps prevent a soggy pie!
Baking Instructions
Time to bake! Place your pie in the preheated oven and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 35-45 minutes. Keep an eye on it—when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling, it’s done! If the edges start to brown too quickly, you can cover them with foil. Let your pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing; this allows the filling to set up beautifully. Get ready for that first delicious bite!
Tips for Success
Here are some of my top tips to ensure your classic apple pie turns out perfect every time! First, don’t skip chilling the dough—it’s essential for a flaky crust. I also love using a mix of apple varieties for depth of flavor; think sweet and tart! If you want a little extra richness, brush the top crust with an egg wash before baking. And finally, let your pie cool completely before slicing to avoid a soupy filling. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are approximate. For a single slice of this classic apple pie, you can expect around 320 calories, along with a delightful balance of carbohydrates, sugar, and fats. Enjoy every bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This classic apple pie is not just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings everyone together! Here’s why you’re going to adore this recipe:
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any baking level.
- Bursts with flavor from the sweet and tart apples.
- A family favorite that brings smiles to every gathering.
- Classic comfort food that’s perfect with a scoop of ice cream.
- Versatile enough to enjoy any time of year!
FAQ Section
Got questions? I’ve got answers! Here are some common queries about making this classic apple pie:
Can I use different types of apples? Absolutely! A mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, creates a fantastic flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers? Store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. Just reheat individual slices in the oven for a few minutes to warm through.
Can I freeze the pie? Yes! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. It’s best enjoyed within 2 months.
What if I don’t have all-purpose flour? You can substitute with a gluten-free blend or use a mix of almond and coconut flour, but the texture may vary slightly.
Can I add other spices? Definitely! Feel free to experiment with a pinch of allspice or ginger for a unique twist!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To keep your classic apple pie fresh and delicious, store any leftovers in the refrigerator. Just cover it with plastic wrap or foil to protect it from drying out. It’ll stay good for about 3 days, but trust me, it might not last that long! When you’re ready to enjoy another slice, simply reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. This helps maintain that lovely flaky crust and warm, gooey filling. You could even pop it in the microwave for a quick fix, but I always prefer the oven for that perfect texture!
For more tips on baking, check out this guide on pie baking from King Arthur Baking.
If you’re interested in exploring more delicious recipes, you might enjoy this classic apple pie recipe for a different twist!
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Classic Apple Pie: 5 Steps to Irresistible Comfort
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A classic apple pie featuring a flaky crust and tender apples.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
- 6 to 8 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar.
- Add butter and mix until crumbly.
- Stir in ice water until dough forms.
- Divide dough in half and roll out each half.
- Place one rolled-out dough in a pie pan.
- In another bowl, combine apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
- Pour apple mixture into the pie crust.
- Cover with the second rolled-out dough and seal edges.
- Cut slits in the top crust for steam to escape.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 35-45 minutes.
Notes
- Allow the pie to cool before serving.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: apple pie, dessert, classic pie
