Best Apple Pie Recipe From Scratch

There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a homemade Apple Pie baking in the oven. With its flaky, buttery crust and tender cinnamon-kissed apples, this timeless dessert is the definition of comfort food. Whether you’re celebrating Thanksgiving, enjoying a cozy fall afternoon, or simply craving a classic homemade treat, this Best Apple Pie Recipe From Scratch is guaranteed to impress.

Made with just a handful of simple ingredients, this pie features a perfectly crisp homemade crust wrapped around juicy apples that bake into a sweet, flavorful filling. Every slice is bursting with warm, nostalgic flavors that pair beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Made completely from scratch with simple pantry ingredients.
• Flaky, buttery homemade pie crust.
• Tender, juicy apple filling with classic fall flavors.
• Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, and special occasions.
• Easy to customize with your favorite spices and apple varieties.

Ingredients

For the Homemade Pie Crust

• 2⅓ cups all-purpose flour – Creates a tender yet sturdy pie crust.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor of the pastry.
• ½ teaspoon granulated sugar – Adds a subtle sweetness to the crust.
• 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into pieces – Produces an irresistibly flaky texture.
• 6–8 tablespoons ice-cold water – Brings the dough together while keeping it tender.

For the Apple Filling

• 2½ pounds sweet baking apples, peeled, cored, and sliced – The star ingredient, creating a juicy and flavorful filling.
• ½ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the apples while balancing their natural tartness.
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour – Thickens the juices as the pie bakes.
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – Brightens the flavors and prevents the apples from browning.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional) – Adds warmth and depth.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional) – Brings classic apple pie spice and cozy flavor.

For the Egg Wash

• 1 large egg – Gives the crust a beautiful golden shine.
• 2 tablespoons water – Thins the egg for easier brushing.
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar – Sprinkled over the crust for a lightly crisp, sparkling finish.

How to Make the Best Apple Pie From Scratch

Prepare the Pie Dough

In a food processor, combine the flour, salt, sugar, and cold butter.

Pulse several times until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter pieces still visible.

Gradually add the ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, pulsing briefly after each addition until the dough begins to come together.

If you don’t have a food processor, combine the flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl and cut the butter into the flour using a pastry cutter or two forks until coarse crumbs form.

Add the water gradually until the dough holds together.

Divide the dough into two equal portions.

Shape each into a disk about 1 inch thick.

Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.

Prepare the Apple Filling

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, flour, lemon juice, vanilla extract (if using), and cinnamon (if using).

Mix gently until the apples are evenly coated.

Let the mixture rest for 15 minutes.

Assemble the Pie

On a lightly floured surface, roll one chilled dough disk into a 12-inch circle.

Transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, allowing the excess dough to hang over the edges.

Using a slotted spoon if necessary, transfer only the apples into the crust, leaving excess liquid behind.

This helps prevent a soggy bottom crust.

Roll out the second dough disk.

Place it over the apples, or cut it into strips to create a decorative lattice crust.

Trim any excess dough.

Seal and crimp the edges.

Cut several small slits in the top crust if not using a lattice design to allow steam to escape.

Add the Egg Wash

Whisk together the egg and water.

Brush the entire top crust generously with the egg wash.

Sprinkle evenly with granulated sugar.

Bake

Bake for 45 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

If the edges begin browning too quickly, loosely cover them with parchment paper or a pie shield during the last 10 minutes of baking.

Allow the pie to cool completely.

For the cleanest slices, refrigerate for at least 4 hours before serving.

Tips for Success

• Use very cold butter for an ultra-flaky crust.
• Avoid overworking the dough to keep it tender.
• Let the apples rest before assembling to release excess juices.
• Leave extra liquid behind when filling the pie.
• Chill the assembled pie briefly before baking for an even flakier crust.
• Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing.

Equipment Needed

• Food processor (optional)
• Large mixing bowl
• Rolling pin
• 9-inch pie dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pastry brush
• Sharp knife
• Cooling rack

Recipe Variations

Classic Cinnamon Apple Pie

Increase the cinnamon and add a pinch of nutmeg and allspice for a richer fall flavor.

Caramel Apple Pie

Drizzle homemade caramel sauce over the apples before adding the top crust.

Dutch Apple Pie

Replace the top crust with a buttery brown sugar oat crumble topping.

Apple Cranberry Pie

Mix fresh cranberries into the apple filling for a tart holiday twist.

Salted Caramel Pecan Apple Pie

Add chopped toasted pecans and a drizzle of salted caramel for a decadent variation.

Serving Suggestions

This Best Apple Pie Recipe From Scratch is delicious served with:

• Vanilla ice cream
• Fresh whipped cream
• Salted caramel sauce
• Cinnamon ice cream
• Cheddar cheese slices (a traditional pairing)
• Hot coffee
• Chai tea
• Apple cider
• Vanilla custard

FAQs

What are the best apples for homemade apple pie?

Firm baking apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, Pink Lady, Fuji, and Jonagold all work wonderfully. Mixing two varieties creates the best flavor and texture.

Why should I chill the pie dough?

Cold butter creates steam as the pie bakes, resulting in a flaky, tender crust.

Why do I leave the extra liquid behind?

Removing excess liquid prevents the bottom crust from becoming soggy during baking.

Can I make the pie ahead of time?

Yes! Apple pie can be baked one day in advance and stored covered at room temperature or refrigerated.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze apple pie?

Absolutely. Freeze either the baked or unbaked pie for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking or reheating.

Conclusion

This Best Apple Pie Recipe From Scratch is everything a homemade apple pie should be—golden, flaky, buttery, and filled with tender, juicy apples in every bite. Simple ingredients come together to create a timeless dessert that’s perfect for holidays, celebrations, or cozy weekends at home.

Whether you serve it warm with melting vanilla ice cream or enjoy a chilled slice with your morning coffee, this easy homemade Apple Pie is sure to become a treasured family favorite. Try it for your next gathering, experiment with your favorite apple varieties, and let us know how it turned out in the comments. Happy baking!

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