Grandma’s Classic Apple Pie Recipe – Easy, Homemade, and Perfectly Flaky
If you’re searching for the best homemade apple pie recipe, look no further! This classic apple pie features a buttery, flaky crust and a warm, cinnamon-spiced apple filling that’s simply irresistible. Passed down through generations, this traditional apple pie is perfect for holidays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any cozy gathering.
In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to make the perfect apple pie from scratch, including the best apples to use, how to prevent a soggy crust, and expert tips for a golden-brown finish.
Let’s get baking!
Ingredients for Homemade Apple Pie
For the Pie Crust (Flaky & Buttery!):
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 6-8 tablespoons ice-cold water
For the Apple Pie Filling (Perfectly Spiced!):
- 6-7 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (prevents apples from browning)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (or flour for thickening)
For the Topping:
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for extra crunch)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Best Pie Crust
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or food processor until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Divide dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. (Chilling helps create a flaky pie crust!)
Step 2: Make the Apple Pie Filling
- Peel, core, and slice apples evenly for even baking.
- Toss apples with sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and cornstarch.
- Let the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the apples to release their natural juices.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie Like a Pro
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Roll out one dough disc into a 12-inch circle and place it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim excess dough.
- Pour the prepared apple filling into the crust and spread evenly.
- Roll out the second dough disc and place it over the apples. You can cover it completely (with small slits for steam) or make a lattice crust.
- Seal and crimp edges, then brush with an egg wash (egg + milk) for a golden finish.
- Sprinkle coarse sugar for extra crunch (optional).
Step 4: Bake the Apple Pie to Perfection
- Place pie on the middle oven rack and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil halfway through baking.
- Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This helps the filling set properly.
Expert Apple Pie Tips for Success
✔ Best Apples for Apple Pie: Use a mix of Granny Smith (tart) and Honeycrisp (sweet) for the best balance of flavors. Avoid apples that turn mushy, like Red Delicious.
✔ Prevent a Soggy Crust: Brush the bottom crust with egg white before adding the filling to create a moisture barrier. You can also pre-bake the crust for 5 minutes.
✔ Make Ahead & Storage:
- Pie dough: Store in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Baked apple pie: Keep at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
✔ Serving Suggestions: Pair with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel drizzle for the ultimate treat!
Final Thoughts – Why You’ll Love This Apple Pie
This homemade apple pie recipe is easy, delicious, and foolproof. With its flaky crust, perfectly spiced apples, and golden-brown topping, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just a weekend treat, this classic apple pie will always impress!
Now it’s your turn! Try this apple pie recipe and share your baking experience in the comments. Happy baking!
