There’s just something magical about baking with fresh apples, isn’t there? The sweet, crisp aroma wafting through the kitchen instantly lifts my spirits, and I can’t help but smile! If you’re looking for recipes with apples that are simple yet incredibly delicious, you’ve found it. This recipe combines tender, spiced apples with a buttery crust, creating a comforting dessert that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this easy apple pie recipe is sure to impress friends and family alike. Let’s dive into this delightful baking adventure together!
Ingredients List
- 4 medium apples, peeled and sliced (I love using a mix of sweet and tart varieties for depth of flavor)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (this helps to balance the acidity of the apples)
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (the warm spice brings everything together)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (it brightens the flavors and keeps the apples from browning)
- 1 pie crust (store-bought works just fine, but homemade adds a special touch!)
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, let’s get that oven ready! Preheat it to 375°F (190°C). This is crucial for achieving that perfect golden crust.
- While your oven is warming up, grab a big mixing bowl. Toss in your sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Give it a good stir until everything is nicely coated. Trust me, the smell at this point is heavenly!
- Now, take your pie crust and place it in a pie dish. If you’re using a store-bought crust, it should fit perfectly, but if you’re making your own, just roll it out to about 1/8 inch thick.
- Pour that delicious apple mixture right into the crust. Make sure to spread it evenly so every slice gets a taste of those juicy apples!
- Time to bake! Pop the pie into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the apples to be tender and the top crust to be a lovely golden brown. If the edges brown too quickly, don’t be shy about covering them with a bit of foil.
- Once it’s done, pull it out of the oven and let it cool for a bit. This will help the juices settle, making it easier to slice. I know it’s hard to wait, but it’ll be worth it when you dive into that first piece!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation: You can whip this up in just 15 minutes before it heads into the oven!
- Easy to cook: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Delicious flavor: The combination of sweet apples, warm cinnamon, and a buttery crust is simply irresistible.
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner, a holiday gathering, or just a treat for yourself, this pie fits right in.
- Customizable: You can easily tweak it with your favorite spices or toppings to make it your own.
- Comforting dessert: There’s nothing quite like a slice of homemade apple pie to warm your heart and soul.
Tips for Success
To ensure your apple pie turns out absolutely perfect, here are some tips that I swear by:
- Choose the right apples: For a well-balanced flavor, I like to mix sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp with tart ones like Granny Smith. This combo gives you that delightful complexity in every bite!
- Don’t skimp on the spices: If you love a little extra warmth, feel free to sprinkle in some nutmeg or allspice with your cinnamon. It adds an extra layer of cozy flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Monitor your baking: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your pie as it bakes. If the top crust is browning too quickly, just tent it with a piece of foil to protect it while the apples finish cooking.
- Let it cool: I know the temptation to dive right in is strong, but letting the pie cool for at least 30 minutes helps the filling set up nicely. This way, you’ll get those perfect slices instead of a gooey mess!
- Serve warm with a scoop of ice cream: Trust me, a warm slice of pie topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream is pure bliss. The creaminess complements the warm spices and tender apples beautifully!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are so many fun ways to customize this apple pie recipe! Here are some of my favorite variations that you can try:
- Spice it up: Instead of just cinnamon, why not add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger? These spices bring a warm, cozy flavor that pairs beautifully with the apples.
- Nutty crunch: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the apple mixture for an extra texture and a delightful nutty flavor. It adds a lovely crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender apples!
- Caramel twist: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the apple filling before topping with the crust for a rich, gooey addition that will make your pie even more indulgent.
- Berry blend: Mix in a handful of fresh or frozen berries like blueberries or raspberries with the apples for a fruity twist that adds a pop of color and a tangy flavor.
- Alternative crusts: For a fun twist, try using a graham cracker crust or a crumbly oat topping instead of a traditional pie crust. It gives your pie a different texture that’s equally delicious!
- Vegan option: Swap the butter in your crust for coconut oil or vegan butter, and use a plant-based milk for brushing the top crust. You’ll have a delightful vegan apple pie that everyone can enjoy!
These variations not only make the recipe your own but also keep things exciting in the kitchen. So go ahead, experiment a little, and discover your favorite twist on this classic dessert!
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for each slice of this delightful apple pie. Keep in mind that these numbers can vary based on the specific ingredients and portion sizes you use, but this should give you a good idea:
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Sugar: 15g
This pie may be a sweet treat, but it’s also packed with the goodness of apples! Enjoy every bite, and remember, a little indulgence now and then is part of the joy of baking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Once you’ve baked this delicious apple pie and have some leftovers (if that ever happens!), storing it properly is key to keeping it fresh and tasty. Here’s how I like to do it:
- Cool completely: First, let your pie cool to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation from forming in the storage container, which could make the crust soggy.
- Wrap it up: Once cooled, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. If you have a pie dish with a lid, that works great too! You want to keep those flavors locked in.
- Store in the fridge: Place the wrapped pie in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to 3-4 days. Trust me, it’ll be just as delicious when you go back for that second slice!
- Freezing option: If you want to save it for later, you can freeze the pie! Just wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It’ll keep well in the freezer for about 2 months. Perfect for those days when you need a sweet treat but don’t want to bake!
When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, here’s how to reheat them for optimal taste and texture:
- Oven reheating: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil to prevent over-browning. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. It’ll make the crust nice and crispy again!
- Microwave option: If you’re in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Just place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat for 30-60 seconds, checking to make sure it doesn’t get too hot.
With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your apple pie just as much as the first time you took a bite. Happy baking and savoring!
FAQ Section
Can I use different types of apples for this pie?
Absolutely! I love using a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith, for a balanced flavor. Feel free to experiment with your favorites!
What if I don’t have a pie crust?
No worries! You can make a simple crumble topping with oats and flour, or even use puff pastry for a different twist. Just ensure it covers the apple filling well!
How do I know when my apple pie is done?
The pie is ready when the apples are tender and the crust is a beautiful golden brown. If you gently poke the apples with a fork and they give easily, you’re good to go!
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the pie and keep it unbaked in the fridge for a day or two, or bake it ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it before serving for the best taste!
What should I serve with apple pie?
A scoop of vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing that I highly recommend! Whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce also makes for a delicious addition.
Can I freeze the apple pie?
Definitely! Just wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It’ll stay fresh in the freezer for about 2 months. Perfect for those cravings later on!
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this apple pie recipe is vegetarian-friendly! Just make sure to use a vegetable-based pie crust if you’re making it from scratch.
Serving Suggestions
Now that your delicious apple pie is ready to be enjoyed, let’s talk about how to elevate the experience even further! Here are some mouthwatering ideas that pair beautifully with your homemade pie:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: This classic pairing is a must! The creamy, cold ice cream melts into the warm pie, creating a heavenly contrast that you simply can’t resist.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a light and airy touch. You can even sprinkle a little cinnamon on top for extra flavor!
- Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice takes it to the next level of indulgence. It adds a rich, buttery sweetness that complements the spiced apples perfectly.
- Tea or Coffee: A warm cup of chai, herbal tea, or freshly brewed coffee makes for a cozy drink to sip alongside your pie. The warmth of the beverage enhances the comforting flavors of the dessert.
- Cheese: For a unique twist, serve a slice with a sharp cheddar cheese. The savory notes of the cheese balance the sweetness of the pie in a delightful way.
- Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing fruit salad on the side can be a great contrast to the richness of the pie. Consider a mix of berries and citrus for a burst of flavor!
These suggestions not only enhance your apple pie experience but also make for a delightful meal that your friends and family will remember. So go ahead, serve it up with love and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Recipes with Apples: 7 Comforting Desserts to Delight
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious recipe using fresh apples.
Ingredients
- 4 medium apples, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 pie crust
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix apples with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
- Place the apple mixture in the pie crust.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes until apples are tender.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- Use any variety of apples you prefer.
- Serve with ice cream for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 1g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
Keywords: recipes with apples