Name: The BEST Apple Pie Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 recipe for double pie crust; 2 1/4 lbs Granny Smith apples (about 7 cups thinly sliced); 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 8 Tbsp unsalted butter; 3 Tbsp all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup water; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 egg; 1 Tbsp water

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If you have a soft spot for classic desserts that bring warmth and comfort to any occasion, I’m so excited to share The BEST Apple Pie Recipe with you. This pie is more than just a treat — it is a perfect harmony of tart Granny Smith apples lightly spiced with cinnamon, enveloped in a golden, flaky double crust woven into a beautiful lattice. Every slice bursts with sweet, buttery richness and a tender, juicy filling that feels like a cozy hug from a loved one. Whether you’re baking for a holiday feast or a simple family dessert, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for unbeatable apple pie bliss.

Ingredients You'll Need

The image shows eight green apples placed on a wooden surface with a few kitchen ingredients arranged around them. There are two round dough disks wrapped in plastic at the top center. To the right, a small white bowl with brown cinnamon powder, an orange bowl filled with flour, and a small glass jar with clear liquid are all visible. A small block of butter with a label is placed near the cinnamon bowl. A red bowl filled with white sugar is in the foreground near the apples. The scene is bright with natural light from the side. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic behind The BEST Apple Pie Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is essential to create the perfect balance of flavors and textures—from the crisp tartness of Granny Smith apples to the smooth richness of butter in the sauce, and of course, that buttery double crust that holds everything together. Here's what you'll gather:

Double pie crust: This flaky base is key to providing a tender yet sturdy shell for your filling.

Granny Smith Apples (2 ¼ lbs): Tart and firm, these apples keep the filling lively and hold their shape well after baking.
Cinnamon (1 ½ tsp): Adds warm, cozy spice that complements the tart apples beautifully.
Unsalted butter (8 Tbsp): Brings richness and silkiness to the filling.

All-purpose flour (3 Tbsp): Helps thicken the apple sauce, ensuring it’s luscious but not runny.
Water (¼ cup): Combined with flour and sugar to make that perfect caramel-like sauce.
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the filling just right, balancing the tartness of the apples.

Egg + water (1 egg + 1 tablespoon water): Used for the egg wash to give your crust a gorgeous golden shine and help seal the lattice.

How to Make The BEST Apple Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust and Preheat Oven

Start by making your double pie crust recipe according to your favorite method or the one you trust most, then chill it thoroughly. The chilled crust is easier to roll out and helps create that flaky texture we all love. While the crust chills, preheat your oven to a hot 425°F, setting the stage for a perfectly browned, bubbling pie.

Step 2: Make the Apple Sauce Filling

Next, melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a smooth roux and simmer it for about a minute, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Then, pour in the water and sugar, bringing it all to a boil before reducing heat to let it gently simmer into a thick, luscious sauce. This sauce is what gives the apple filling its irresistible juiciness and shine.

Step 3: Prepare the Apples

While the sauce simmers, peel, core, and slice your apples thinly—about 7 cups sliced in total. Toss them in a large bowl with cinnamon to infuse that lovely warmth into each slice. Then pour your freshly made apple sauce over the apples, stirring gently to coat each slice evenly. This mixture is the heart of The BEST Apple Pie Recipe, with its balance of tart, sweet, and spiced flavors.

Step 4: Roll Out and Fill the Bottom Crust

Lightly flour your workspace and roll out the bottom crust into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer it to your 9-inch pie plate, making sure it fits snugly without tearing. Spoon the apple mixture into the crust, mounding it just slightly in the center. Be careful not to spill filling on the crust edges—it can make sealing your pie tricky.

Step 5: Create the Lattice Top Crust

Roll out the second crust into an 11-inch circle and cut it into 10 strips of even thickness using a pizza cutter. Now the fun part begins: weave the strips over and under in a lattice pattern across the apples, crafting that classic and beautiful pie look. Once your lattice is perfect, beat the egg with water and brush the entire top crust for a golden, glossy finish once baked.

Step 6: Bake Your Pie to Perfection

Place your pie in the oven’s center rack and bake at 425°F for 15 minutes to set the crust edges and start caramelizing the filling. Then reduce the temperature to 350°F and continue baking for 45 more minutes, or until the apples are tender and bubbling through the lattice for at least 5 minutes. Once done, allow the pie to rest at room temperature for an hour to let the filling fully set for slicing.

How to Serve The BEST Apple Pie Recipe

A close-up of a slice of apple pie sitting on a white plate, showing three visible layers: the top golden brown lattice crust with its light flaky texture, the middle layer of soft apple slices mixed with cinnamon and sugar that look slightly juicy, and the bottom layer of the pie crust holding everything together. The pie edge has a crimped pattern with a golden shine. In the front, a silver fork rests on the plate, and behind are two blurred green apples. The plate is placed on a red and white checkered cloth on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The BEST Apple Pie Recipe is stunning on its own, but you can add an extra touch by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce also complements the warm spices and sweet apples beautifully.

Side Dishes

This apple pie pairs wonderfully with simple, cozy sides like a cup of hot tea, a latte, or even a scoop of creamy vanilla yogurt on the side to balance the sweetness. For a festive occasion, pair it with warm mulled apple cider for a full apple-inspired treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your presentation to the next level by serving individual mini pies using tart tins or transforming leftovers into apple pie parfaits layered with granola and whipped cream. You can also garnish slices with thinly sliced fresh apples or even edible flowers for a charming, rustic touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, cover your pie with foil or plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to two days. For longer freshness, refrigerate it to keep the apples tender and the crust crisp. Proper storage ensures each bite tastes just as delicious as when it was freshly baked.

Freezing

The BEST Apple Pie Recipe freezes beautifully if you want to prepare in advance. Wrap your cooled pie tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to two months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to bring back that fresh-baked warmth.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore that flaky crust and warm, gooey filling. Avoid microwaving if possible, since the crust can become soggy. A warm slice tastes like a fresh slice of heaven and is truly worth the extra steps.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples for this pie?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness and firmness, you can blend in sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a more complex flavor and balanced sweetness.

Is it necessary to use a double crust for this pie?

Using a double crust, especially a lattice top, is traditional and adds a beautiful texture and appearance, but you can opt for a single crust with a full top if you prefer. Just make sure to cut vents for steam to escape.

How do I prevent the crust edges from burning?

To protect the crust edges during baking, cover them with foil or a pie crust shield after about 20-25 minutes. This keeps the edges golden without over-browning.

Can I make this pie vegan?

You can! Substitute butter with a plant-based margarine and use a flax or chia seed egg wash to get a nice golden top on your crust.

What is the best way to serve leftover pie?

Leftover pie tastes amazing cold or warmed up. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or scoop of ice cream for a simple yet delightful dessert.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about The BEST Apple Pie Recipe that fills your kitchen with warmth and your heart with joy. Once you try this recipe, I promise it will become one of your treasured classics to share with family and friends. Don’t hesitate—grab those apples and get baking today. Your perfect slice of homemade happiness awaits!

The BEST Apple Pie Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need

How to Make The BEST Apple Pie Recipe