Easy Apple Pie

This Easy Apple Pie is a beloved dessert that everyone can enjoy! With its flaky crust and sweet, spiced apple filling, it’s perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or simply as a comforting treat after dinner. This recipe stands out for its simplicity and the delightful combination of flavors that make it a crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Simple: This recipe requires minimal prep time, making it perfect even for beginner bakers.
• Delicious Flavor: The blend of Granny Smith apples with cinnamon and nutmeg creates a warm, inviting taste.
• Versatile Occasion: Great for any occasion, whether it’s Thanksgiving, birthday parties, or just a cozy night at home.
• Homemade Goodness: Enjoy the satisfaction of baking from scratch with a flaky pie crust and fresh ingredients.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite spices or toppings to make it your own.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe for Easy Apple Pie, ensure you have the right tools ready. Having the right equipment will streamline your baking process and help achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pie plate
• Rolling pin
• Large mixing bowl
• Sharp knife
• Baking sheet
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Pie plate: A deep dish pie plate allows for ample space for your filling without spilling over.
• Rolling pin: Essential for rolling out your pie crust to the perfect thickness.
• Sharp knife: Necessary for slicing apples evenly and trimming excess dough.

Ingredients

This is hands down the BEST and easiest apple pie recipe! It has a tender, flaky, homemade pie crust with apple slices drenched in sugar and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.

Ingredients:
– 2 (9) pie crusts
– 7 large Granny Smith apples (peeled, cored and sliced into 1/2 inch slices)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar (loosely packed)
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice (plus the zest of half of a lemon)
– 1 large egg (lightly beaten in a small bowl for egg wash)
– 2 tablespoons sanding sugar (optional)

How to Make Easy Apple Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Start by preparing this flaky pie crust recipe which makes 2 (9) pie crusts—one for the bottom and one for the top of the pie.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Place oven rack in the center position. Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C).

Step 3: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and lemon zest; toss to coat evenly.

Step 4: Roll Out the Bottom Crust

Remove pie crust dough from the fridge and let rest at room temperature for 5–10 minutes. On a lightly floured surface:
1. Roll one disc into a 12 circle that is 1/8 thick.
2. Carefully lay the crust into the bottom of a deep dish pie plate.

Step 5: Add Apple Filling

Spoon apple filling over the bottom crust and discard juices at the bottom of the bowl.

Step 6: Roll Out Top Crust

Roll out second disc of pie crust until it is 1/8 thick. Lay it over apple filling.

Step 7: Seal Edges

Use a sharp knife to trim dough along outside edge of pie plate. Lift edges where two pie crusts meet:
1. Gently press to seal.
2. Fold them under neatly.
3. Cut four slits in top dough to allow steam to vent.

Step 8: Bake Your Pie

Brush surface of pie crust with egg wash and sprinkle with sanding sugar if desired:
1. Cover edges with a pie shield or foil strip during first 25 minutes.
2. Bake at 400°F (204°C) for 25 minutes.
3. Remove shield; turn oven down to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking an additional 30–35 minutes until golden brown with bubbly juices.
4. Cool at room temperature for at least three hours before serving.

Enjoy every slice of this delightful Easy Apple Pie!

How to Serve Easy Apple Pie

Serving Easy Apple Pie can be a delightful experience for you and your guests. There are several creative ways to elevate this classic dessert to make it even more enjoyable.

A La Mode

• Serve warm slices of apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The creaminess perfectly complements the warm, spiced apples.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream. This adds a light and airy texture that balances the dense pie.

Caramel Drizzle

• Drizzle warm caramel sauce over the pie before serving. The sweetness of the caramel enhances the flavors of the cinnamon and nutmeg.

Nutty Crumble

• Add crushed nuts like pecans or walnuts on top for an added crunch. This gives a nice contrast to the soft apples.

Coffee Pairing

• Serve slices alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage enhances the flavors of the pie.

Fresh Fruits

• Garnish with slices of fresh fruits like strawberries or raspberries for a refreshing contrast. This adds color and freshness to your dessert presentation.

How to Perfect Easy Apple Pie

To make your Easy Apple Pie truly standout, consider these helpful tips that ensure excellent results every time.

• Choose the right apples: Select tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor balance against the sweetness.
• Keep ingredients cold: Use cold butter and chilled water when making your crust for a flaky texture.
• Don’t overfill: Leave some space in the pie to allow juices to bubble without overflowing.
• Use a pie shield: Protect your edges from burning by covering them with a pie shield or foil during baking.
• Cool before slicing: Let it cool for at least 3 hours; this helps set the filling and makes slicing easier.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices like ginger or allspice for a unique flavor twist.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Apple Pie

Pairing side dishes with your Easy Apple Pie can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great suggestions:

1. Cheese platter: A selection of sharp cheddar or creamy brie can complement the sweetness of apple pie beautifully.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: Classic and simple, it melts into warm pie creating a delicious blend.
3. Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: These fluffy pancakes have similar flavors and make for an indulgent breakfast option.
4. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts provide a crunchy contrast that pairs well with soft apple filling.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and balances out the richness of the pie.
6. Sweet Potato Casserole: This dish offers its own sweet notes that harmonize wonderfully with apple pie.
7. Pumpkin Soup: A warm, comforting soup can serve as a lovely start before moving on to dessert.
8. Chai Tea: A warm chai tea brings aromatic spices that pair well with the flavors in apple pie.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Easy Apple Pie, a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Using the wrong apples: Not all apples are created equal. Choose tart varieties like Granny Smith for the best flavor and texture.
• Skipping the chilling step: Chilling the pie crust is crucial. It helps prevent shrinkage and ensures a flaky texture.
• Not adjusting sugar levels: Depending on the sweetness of your apples, you may need to adjust the sugar. Taste your filling before sealing the pie.
• Overbaking or underbaking: Bake until golden brown and bubbly. Use a timer but keep an eye on your pie to ensure perfect doneness.
• Neglecting steam vents: Cutting slits in the top crust allows steam to escape, preventing sogginess. Don’t skip this step!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep it covered with plastic wrap if you don’t have a container.

Freezing Easy Apple Pie

• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Easy Apple Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pie on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Easy Apple Pie.

Can I use store-bought crusts for Easy Apple Pie?

Yes, using store-bought crusts can save time. Just follow package instructions for best results.

What types of apples work best for this Easy Apple Pie?

Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal. They hold their shape and provide great flavor.

How do I prevent my apple pie from becoming soggy?

To prevent sogginess, drain excess juices from the apple filling and ensure proper venting by cutting slits in the top crust.

How long does Easy Apple Pie last when stored?

When stored properly, Easy Apple Pie lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator and up to 2-3 months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Apple Pie recipe is not only simple but also incredibly delicious, making it a must-try dessert. You can customize it by adding nuts or raisins or even experimenting with different spices. Whichever way you choose, this pie is sure to impress!