Best Homemade Apple Pie Recipe with Real Apples : A Step-by-Step Classic

Few things are as comforting and iconic as a homemade apple pie. With its flaky golden crust, tender slices of real apples, and warm cinnamon-sugar filling, this dessert is the definition of timeless. Whether you’re learning how to make traditional apple pie or looking for an apple pie recipe with precooked apples, this guide has everything you need to master the art of the perfect pie.

Ideal for holiday gatherings, Sunday dinners, or anytime you’re craving a nostalgic treat, this is the best apple pie recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Save

Why This Is the Best Homemade Apple Pie Recipe

This recipe checks every box: it’s simple, flavorful, and delivers consistent results. Whether you’re channeling Grandma’s apple pie from your childhood or just need an easy apple pie recipe to impress your guests, this one never fails.

Here’s why it stands out:

• Uses fresh, real apples for authentic taste and texture
• Includes tips for using precooked apples if preferred
• Simple, flaky homemade pie crust
• Balanced spices that enhance (not overpower) the fruit
• Clear, step-by-step instructions—perfect for beginners

If you love desserts like Strawberry Cheesecake Cinnamon Rolls or cozy seasonal pies, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients for Homemade Apple Pie with Real Apples

For the Pie Filling

• 6–7 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (about 6 cups)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/8 tsp ground cloves (optional)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Pie Crust (Double Crust)

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 6–8 tbsp ice water

Optional for Top

• 1 egg + 1 tbsp water (egg wash)
• Coarse sugar for sprinkling

Prefer to bake with whole food ingredients? This pie works well with Cheesy Zucchini Bread or Mini Pumpkin Pie Cups for a fall dessert board.

Recommended Kitchen Equipment

Make sure you have these essentials before starting:

• 9-inch pie dish
• Rolling pin
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pastry blender or food processor
• Apple peeler/corer
• Pastry brush
• Sharp knife

These tools ensure your pie comes together smoothly from crust to crumble.

How to Make Traditional Apple Pie – Step by Step

1. Prepare the Pie Crust

In a bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, just until the dough holds together. Divide in two, shape into disks, wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

2. Make the Apple Pie Filling

In a large bowl, combine sliced apples with sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, lemon juice, and vanilla. Stir well to coat the apples evenly. Let sit for 15 minutes to allow the juices to release.

3. Assemble the Pie

Roll out one disk of chilled dough and place it into the pie dish. Fill with the apple mixture and spread evenly. Dot with a few cubes of butter (optional). Roll out the second crust and place it over the apples. Trim excess dough, crimp the edges, and cut slits on top for steam to escape.

4. Bake the Pie

Brush the top with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes, then reduce the oven to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for 35–40 minutes until golden brown and bubbly.

5. Cool and Serve

Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set. Slice and enjoy with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Love baking from scratch? You’ll also enjoy our Cream Cheese Pumpkin Bread for cozy autumn flavors.

Save

How to Use Precooked Apples in Apple Pie

Precooking apples helps control the moisture level and ensures a more compact filling. Here’s how:

1. Cook sliced apples in a pan with sugars, spices, and lemon juice for 10 minutes until slightly softened.
2. Add flour and stir until thickened.
3. Let cool completely before using in the pie.

This method is great if you love pies with a jammy texture like Pumpkin Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Tips for a Flaky Pie Crust Every Time

• Use cold butter and cold water—this is key to flakiness
• Chill the dough for at least 1 hour before rolling
• Don’t overwork the dough—handle it just enough to bring it together
• Bake on the lower rack to avoid a soggy bottom

For more flaky dough recipes, explore Artisan Pizza Dough for savory pie crust techniques.

Grandma’s Apple Pie Secrets You Should Know

Every family has their version of grandma’s apple pie, and here are the timeless tips passed down through generations:

• Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for depth of flavor
• Always add a touch of lemon juice to enhance the fruit
• Brush with egg wash for a shiny, golden crust
• Let it cool completely before slicing for the perfect filling texture

Want more vintage-inspired recipes? Try our Authentic Irish Potato Farls for a classic breakfast treat.

Apple Pie Recipe Variations and Flavor Twists

Craving something beyond the traditional? Try these ideas:

• Add caramel drizzle to make caramel apple pie
• Mix in cranberries or raisins for a holiday twist
• Use a streusel topping instead of a second crust
• Add cheddar cheese to the crust for a sweet-savory combo

Feeling inspired? Pair it with a unique dessert like Pumpkin Crunch Dessert for an unforgettable holiday table.

Serving Suggestions and Toppings

Apple pie is always better with extras. Try these:

• A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream
• Freshly whipped cream
• A drizzle of caramel or maple syrup
• Chopped toasted pecans on top

Want to impress your guests? Serve it alongside No Bake Pumpkin Pie Balls for a decadent dessert duo.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Apple Pie Baking

1. Using the wrong apples – Avoid soft apples that turn mushy
2. Skipping the cooling time – This helps the filling set
3. Overfilling the pie – Causes overflow and soggy crust
4. Not venting the top crust – Leads to steam buildup and soggy filling

Avoiding these mistakes will keep your pie as perfect as your favorite Apple Crisp.

How to Store and Reheat Apple Pie Properly

To Store

• Keep at room temperature, covered, for up to 2 days
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days
• Wrap well and freeze for up to 3 months

To Reheat

• Warm slices in the oven at 350°F for 10–15 minutes
• Microwave individual slices for 30 seconds (but crust may soften)

Reheating tip: Use the oven to keep the crust crisp—just like with Cheesy Mexican Tortilla Casserole.

Best Desserts to Serve with Apple Pie

Planning a dessert table? Complement your homemade apple pie with:

• Mini Pumpkin Bread with Cinnamon Swirl
• Frozen Banana Snickers
• White Chocolate Halloween Oreo Bark
• Peach Sorbet Recipe

These make perfect additions to a fall or holiday-themed dessert spread.

Save

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the best apples for apple pie?
Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Braeburn are excellent choices for their firm texture and balanced flavor.

Can I make the pie crust ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

How do I know when my apple pie is done?
The crust should be golden brown, and the filling should bubble through the vents.

Can I freeze the whole pie?
Yes. Freeze the assembled unbaked pie and bake it straight from frozen, adding 15–20 extra minutes to the baking time.

What’s the difference between this and Dutch apple pie?
Dutch apple pie has a crumb topping instead of a full top crust.

Final Thoughts on This Easy Apple Pie Recipe

This homemade apple pie recipe is everything a traditional dessert should be—flaky, flavorful, and filled with real apples. Whether you’re baking it for Thanksgiving, a birthday, or a quiet Sunday at home, this pie brings warmth and joy to any table.

If you’ve been looking for the best apple pie or a nostalgic slice of Grandma’s apple pie, this recipe delivers the comfort you crave with the ease you need.

Love baking? Don’t miss other pie and sweet bread favorites like Pumpkin Bread with Cream Cheese Frosting and Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls.

Print