Introduction to Easy Apple Pie
Homemade desserts, like easy apple pie, have a unique way of bringing warmth and joy to our lives. There's something truly special about baking in your own kitchen — the delightful aromas that fill the air, the anticipation of sharing your creation, and the smiles that follow with each slice served.
Making pie from scratch may seem daunting, but this easy apple pie recipe is designed for everyone, even if you've never baked before. The combination of tart Granny Smith apples, velvety spices, and a flaky crust makes this dessert a quintessential comfort food, perfect for cozy gatherings or family dinners. According to a survey conducted by the American Pie Council, apple pie remains a favorite among Americans, with 186 million pies consumed each year!
To elevate your baking game even further, consider exploring different topping options. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream can transform that delicious slice into an unforgettable treat, making it a hit at parties. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into this easy apple pie recipe that will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also create cherished memories in your kitchen.
Discover the joy of baking today!
Ingredients for Easy Apple Pie
Essential ingredients for the best apple pie
Creating a delicious easy apple pie starts with gathering a few essential ingredients that bring out the best flavors. Here's what you'll need:
- 2 (9") pie crusts: You can make your own flaky crust using this all-butter recipe or opt for store-bought for convenience.
- 7 large Granny Smith apples: These provide the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness when baked.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: This sweetens the filling and enhances the apples’ natural flavors.
- ½ cup light brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like taste.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: This helps thicken the filling.
- Seasonings: 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg for that warm, cozy flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Plus zest from half a lemon to brighten the dish.
Optional ingredients for customization
Customize your easy apple pie to suit your personal taste or what you have handy:
- Additional spices: Experiment with cloves or ginger for more depth.
- Vanilla extract: A teaspoon can add a lovely aromatic touch.
- Sanding sugar: For sprinkling on the crust for extra sparkle and crunch.
- Dried fruit or nuts: Consider adding raisins, cranberries, or chopped walnuts for a unique twist.
Feel free to get creative—your apple pie can be as unique as you are!
Step-by-step Preparation for Easy Apple Pie
Creating a delicious easy apple pie might sound intimidating, but I assure you, it's a simple joy anyone can master. Let’s walk through this delightful process together!
Prepare the pie crust
First things first – a good pie starts with a fantastic crust. You can use a homemade flaky pie crust recipe, which makes two 9-inch crusts, or opt for a store-bought version if you're short on time. If you're making your own, ensure to chill the dough for at least an hour before rolling it out. This resting time helps achieve that perfect flaky texture we all love. Once chilled, roll out one disc into a 12-inch circle, about ⅛-inch thick, and carefully fit it into the bottom of your pie plate.
Preheat the oven
While you’re working on the crust, it’s a good idea to get your oven preheating. Place the oven rack in the center position and set the temperature to 400°F (204°C). Preheating ensures that our easy apple pie begins baking immediately, which is essential for that mouthwatering crust.
Prepare the apple filling
Now, let’s move on to the star of the show – the apple filling! In a large bowl, combine 7 large Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored, and sliced into ½ inch slices) with both granulated and light brown sugars, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a splash of lemon juice and zest. Toss everything together until the apples are well-coated. The acidity of the lemon helps brighten up the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Assemble the pie
With your filling ready, it’s time to bring your pie together. Take the first crust from your pie plate and spoon the apple mixture over it, making sure to discard any excess juices at the bottom of the bowl. Roll out the second crust into a circle and lay it gently over the apple filling. Use a sharp knife to trim away any excess dough and then tuck and crimp the edges to seal them. Create four small slits in the top crust to let the steam escape—this helps prevent any pie explosions!
Bake to perfection
Before placing your pie in the oven, brush the crust with a lightly beaten egg for that gorgeous golden finish. If you want a touch of sparkle, sprinkle some sanding sugar on top. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and start baking. Initially, bake it at 400°F for 25 minutes, then cover the edges with a pie shield or foil to prevent over-browning. Reduce the heat to 375°F (190°C) and continue cooking for 30-35 minutes until you see a beautifully golden crust.
Once done, allow your pie to cool at room temperature for at least 3 hours before slicing. This wait is crucial for letting the filling set. And there you have it—a perfect easy apple pie ready to impress!
Variations on Easy Apple Pie
Caramel Apple Pie
For a luxurious twist on the classic easy apple pie, how about adding a layer of rich caramel? Simply drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the apple filling before placing on the top crust. This adds decadence, making each bite feel like a treat! If you want an extra boost, sprinkle some chopped nuts for added texture.
Apple Pie with a Crumb Topping
If you're a fan of crispy toppings, try swapping the top crust for a buttery crumb topping. Mix together equal parts flour, butter, and brown sugar until crumbly, then sprinkle it over the apples before baking. This variation creates a delightful contrast of flavors and textures that complements the tartness of the apples beautifully.
For even more inspiration on customizing your easy apple pie, check out these ideas for flavor variations. Enjoy experimenting!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Apple Pie
Achieving the Perfect Crust
To make your easy apple pie shine, start with chilled ingredients. If making your own crust, ensure the dough is cold before rolling it out. This helps create a flaky texture. Consider using a combination of butter and shortening for a rich flavor and superior flakiness. Don’t forget to gently work the dough; overmixing can make it tough.
Preventing a Soggy Bottom
A soggy crust is the nemesis of every pie lover! To avoid this, place a baking sheet under your pie while it bakes to catch any drips. Also, try sprinkling a thin layer of flour or cornstarch on the bottom crust before adding the juicy apple filling. This will help absorb excess moisture, keeping the bottom crisp and delicious. Enjoy your baking!
Serving Suggestions for Easy Apple Pie
Pairing with Ice Cream
Nothing complements a warm slice of easy apple pie quite like a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The creamy texture contrasts beautifully with the flaky crust and spiced apples. Whether you prefer classic vanilla or a more adventurous caramel swirl, ice cream adds an indulgent finish. Want to elevate your dessert? Try drizzling honey or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for an extra treat!
Creative Serving Ideas
Why not take your apple pie experience up a notch? Serve warm pie slices with a dollop of whipped cream or enjoy it as a decadent breakfast topped with yogurt and granola. For a unique twist, turn leftovers into apple pie French toast—simply layer slices between bread and grill until golden! With these ideas, your easy apple pie will impress at any gathering or cozy night in.
Time Breakdown for Easy Apple Pie
Preparation time
Getting your ingredients ready takes about 20-30 minutes. During this time, you’ll peel and slice those lovely Granny Smith apples and mix in the sugars and spices—total comfort food preparation!
Baking time
Once you've prepped your pie, it only bakes for about 55-60 minutes. That means you'll be enjoying delicious aromas wafting from the oven in no time!
Total time
Including the chilling time for the pie crust, the entire process will take around 4 hours. Most of that time is for cooling, so you can sit back and relax while your easy apple pie transforms into a masterpiece.
Nutritional Facts for Easy Apple Pie
When indulging in a slice of easy apple pie, it helps to know what you’re consuming. Here are the key nutritional facts to keep in mind:
Calories
Each slice of this delicious pie averages around 417 calories, making it a satisfying yet moderate dessert choice.
Sugar Content
With a total of 46 grams of sugar, this pie balances the sweetness from the apples and added sugars, providing a flavorful treat that isn’t overly sugary.
Dietary Fiber
Enjoying this pie also offers about 6 grams of dietary fiber per slice, thanks to the wholesome apples, which can aid in digestion and keep you feeling full longer.
Incorporating delicious and nutritious ingredients makes this easy apple pie not just a dessert but a delightful experience. For more on the health benefits of apples, check out Healthline’s article on apples.
FAQs about Easy Apple Pie
What type of apples are best for apple pie?
When making an easy apple pie, opt for tart and crisp varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These apples hold their shape well during baking and provide a delightful contrast to the sweetness of the sugars and spices in your pie. For a more complex flavor, consider mixing these with some sweeter apples like Fuji or Braeburn.
Can I make apple pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the easy apple pie filling a day in advance and store it in the fridge. If you'd like, you can even assemble the pie and freeze it uncooked for up to three months. When you're ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to your baking time.
How do I store leftover apple pie?
To keep your leftover easy apple pie fresh, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, refrigerate it, and enjoy the pie within five days. If you do have leftovers, reheating individual slices in the oven can bring back that fresh-baked taste!
Conclusion on Easy Apple Pie
Embracing the homemade experience means savoring every moment spent in your kitchen, especially when creating an easy apple pie. The aroma filling your home, the warmth of the oven, and that first slice enjoyed with loved ones all matter. Enjoy this delightful journey and let homemade comfort take center stage!
Embracing the Homemade Experience
Taking the time to bake an easy apple pie transforms a simple dessert into a heartfelt creation. Not only do you engage your senses, from chopping tart Granny Smith apples to smelling the buttery crust baking away, but you also create memories that linger long after the last slice is served.
Gather your friends or family for a fun baking day, or indulge in a solo moment of tranquility. The joy of baking is not just in the final product—it’s in the entire experience! Consider pairing your pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream for an extra treat.
If you enjoyed this recipe, explore more amazing tips on baking techniques or check out the art of pie crust perfection at Serious Eats. Happy baking!
Easy Apple Pie
Equipment
- Pie Plate
- mixing bowl
- Rolling Pin
- baking sheet
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 2 9" pie crusts homemade or store-bought
Filling
- 7 large Granny Smith apples peeled, cored, and sliced into ½ inch slices
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar loosely packed
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice plus zest of half a lemon
- 1 large egg lightly beaten for egg wash
- 2 tablespoons sanding sugar optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Prepare the flaky pie crust recipe which makes 2 (9") pie crusts, one for the bottom and one for the top of the pie. The pie dough will need to chill for at least 1 hour before rolling out, or use a store-bought pie crust and follow package directions.
- Place oven rack in the center position and preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice and lemon zest; toss to coat evenly.
- Remove the pie crust dough from the fridge and let rest at room temperature for 5-10 minutes. On a lightly floured surface, roll one disc into a 12" circle that is ⅛" thick and carefully lay the crust into the bottom of a deep dish pie plate.
- Spoon the apple filling over the bottom crust and discard juices at the bottom of the bowl. Roll out the second disc of pie crust until it is ⅛" thick and lay it over the apple filling.
- Use a sharp knife to trim the dough along the outside edge of the pie plate. Lift the edges where the two pie crusts meet, gently press to seal and fold them under. Rotate the pie plate and repeat this process until edges are neatly tucked under themselves. Cut 4 slits in the top of the dough to allow steam to vent. Place the pie on a baking sheet.
- Brush the surface of the pie crust with the egg wash and sprinkle with sanding sugar. Cover the edges with a pie shield or a strip of foil to keep them from over browning during the first 25 minutes.
- Bake at 400°F (204°C) for 25 minutes. Carefully remove the pie shield, turn the oven down to 375° and continue to bake for an additional 30-35 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the juices are bubbly.
- Cool at room temperature for at least 3 hours.
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