American apple pie is a timeless dessert, symbolizing comfort, tradition, and home-baked goodness. With a flaky, golden crust and a perfectly spiced apple filling, this recipe brings the classic taste of America straight to your kitchen. Whether you’re baking for the holidays, a family gathering, or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this homemade apple pie recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Why American Apple Pie is a Must-Try
Apple pie has been a staple of American cuisine for centuries. While its origins trace back to Europe, it became an American favorite due to its simple ingredients and heartwarming flavors. The combination of tart apples, warm spices, and a buttery crust makes it a beloved dessert across the country.
Ingredients for the Best American Apple Pie
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter (cold, cubed)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 6–8 tablespoons ice water
For the Apple Filling:
- 6–7 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Egg Wash (Optional for a Golden Crust):
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon milk
How to Make American Apple Pie
1. Prepare the Pie Crust
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in Butter: Using a pastry cutter or food processor, cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Ice Water: Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough into two disks, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Prepare the Apple Filling
- Peel & Slice Apples: Peel, core, and slice apples into thin, even slices.
- Mix with Sugar & Spices: In a large bowl, toss apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Let sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Assemble the Pie
- Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out one disk of dough into a 12-inch circle. Place it into a 9-inch pie pan, trimming any excess.
- Add Apple Filling: Spoon the apple mixture into the pie crust, spreading evenly.
- Prepare the Top Crust: Roll out the second disk of dough. You can either cover the pie with a full crust (cutting slits for ventilation) or create a lattice pattern by weaving strips of dough.
- Seal & Crimp Edges: Press the edges together to seal, then crimp with your fingers or a fork for a decorative touch.
- Brush with Egg Wash: In a small bowl, whisk together an egg and milk, then brush over the crust for a golden-brown finish.
4. Bake to Perfection
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie on the center rack and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Cool Before Serving: Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set before slicing.
Tips for the Perfect Apple Pie
✔ Use a Mix of Apples: Combining tart Granny Smith and sweet Honeycrisp apples gives the best balance of flavor and texture.
✔ Chill Your Dough: Keeping the dough cold ensures a flaky crust. If it gets too warm, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes.
✔ Prevent a Soggy Bottom: Sprinkle a little flour or cornstarch on the bottom crust before adding the filling to absorb excess moisture.
✔ Lattice vs. Full Crust: A lattice crust allows steam to escape and adds a decorative touch, while a full crust gives a classic look.
✔ Serve with Vanilla Ice Cream: Nothing pairs better with warm apple pie than a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream!
How to Store & Reheat Apple Pie
Room Temperature: Apple pie can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with foil or plastic wrap.
Refrigerator: Store leftover pie in the fridge for up to 5 days. Warm slices in the microwave or oven before serving.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the baked pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make the Pie Crust in Advance?
Yes! You can make the pie dough up to 3 days ahead and store it in the fridge. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
What Are the Best Apples for Apple Pie?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Jonagold, and Braeburn apples hold up well to baking and provide a perfect sweet-tart balance.
Why Does My Pie Filling Turn Watery?
If your filling is too runny, it may need more thickening agents like flour or cornstarch. Letting the pie cool completely before slicing also helps set the filling.
How Do I Get a Crispier Crust?
Brushing the bottom crust with egg white before adding the filling creates a barrier against moisture, keeping the crust crisp.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the taste of homemade American apple pie. With a perfectly spiced apple filling and a golden, flaky crust, this recipe is a true classic that never goes out of style. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast, a family gathering, or just because, this pie is guaranteed to bring warmth and joy to any occasion.
Try this recipe today and experience the ultimate homemade apple pie!
