If you’re ready to fall in love with baking all over again, let me introduce you to The Easiest Apple Pie Recipe (Beginner Friendly) – Simple, Comforting, and Foolproof Recipe. This classic apple pie brings together tender, perfectly spiced apples wrapped in a golden, flaky crust that’s surprisingly easy to make, even if you’re new to pie baking! It’s a warm hug of sweetness and spice that feels like home in every bite. Whether you want to impress guests or just enjoy a slice with your favorite cozy drink, this recipe is your new go-to for effortless homemade comfort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple yet essential, each ingredient plays a special role in crafting this delicious apple pie. From the crisp apples that provide texture and tang, to the spices and sugars that layer the comforting flavors, these ingredients create a harmonious balance in every slice.
- 2 pie crusts: Store-bought refrigerated dough or homemade, these form the buttery, flaky base and top that hold the pie together.
- 6–7 medium apples: Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix offer the perfect sweet-tart flavor and firm texture needed for pie filling.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the apples without overpowering their natural flavor.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds a deeper, caramel-like richness to the filling (optional but highly recommended).
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Vital for thickening the juicy filling so it isn’t runny.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Extra thickening power, especially for juicier apple varieties.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Infuses the filling with warm spice that defines classic apple pie.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds subtle aromatic depth (optional but lovely).
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the sweetness and brings all the flavors into harmony.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brightens the filling with a sweet, creamy note.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Keeps apples from browning and balances sweetness with acidity.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Cut into small pieces to dot the filling, enriching flavor and texture.
- 1 egg + 1 tablespoon water: Beaten for an egg wash that creates a golden, shiny crust.
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar: Sprinkled on top for crunch and sparkle (optional but fun).
How to Make The Easiest Apple Pie Recipe (Beginner Friendly) – Simple, Comforting, and Foolproof Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by setting your oven to 425°F (220°C), positioning the rack in the lower third to ensure the bottom crust bakes evenly. If you’re using store-bought crusts, let them soften slightly at room temperature for easier handling.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Peeling, coring, and slicing your apples about 1/4 inch thick is the foundation of this pie’s wonderful texture. Toss them gently with lemon juice right away to keep their fresh appearance and prevent browning, making the filling as inviting as it tastes.
Step 3: Mix the Filling
In the same bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract with the apple slices. Toss until every apple slice is coated in this fragrant mixture. Let the filling rest for 5 to 10 minutes to draw out juices that will contribute to a luscious, bubbling filling.
Step 4: Line the Pie Dish
Gently roll out one pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan, pressing it carefully into the bottom and sides. Trim off any extra dough, leaving about half an inch overhang so you can seal the top crust securely later on.
Step 5: Fill the Pie
Pour your apple mixture into the crust, creating a slight mound in the center. Dot the filling with small chunks of butter to add richness and a glossy finish after baking. This simple step elevates the flavor wonderfully.
Step 6: Add the Top Crust
Cover the pie with the second crust, trimming and folding the edges under the bottom crust’s overhang. Crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork to seal everything in. Don’t forget to cut 4 to 5 small slits in the top crust to let steam escape – or try weaving strips for a beautiful lattice topping.
Step 7: Brush and Sprinkle
Brush the entire top crust with the egg wash for a golden, shiny finish. For a sweet crunch, sprinkle with coarse sugar if you like a textural surprise on top that’s as pretty as it is tasty.
Step 8: Bake Hot, then Lower
Bake the pie initially at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes to set the crust, then reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for 30 to 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the crust turns a perfect golden brown and you see the apple juices bubbling through the vents.
Step 9: Protect the Edges
If the edges of your crust start browning too quickly, cover them loosely with foil or a pie shield during the last 20 minutes to prevent burning, keeping the pie looking flawless.
Step 10: Cool before Slicing
Patience here is key – let the pie cool completely on a rack for at least two hours. This gives the filling time to set, so when you slice the pie, you get beautiful, neat servings instead of a runny mess.
How to Serve The Easiest Apple Pie Recipe (Beginner Friendly) – Simple, Comforting, and Foolproof Recipe
Garnishes
Top your slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an irresistible, creamy contrast to the warm spiced apples. A sprinkle of cinnamon sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce adds a lovely touch of sweetness and sparkle.
Side Dishes
This pie shines on its own but pairing it with a hot cup of coffee or a cinnamon-spiced tea creates a cozy, inviting dessert experience. For a heartier twist, serve alongside sharp cheddar cheese slices for a flavor combination that’s both surprising and delightful.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut smaller wedges for a charming dessert platter, or serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar and a sprig of fresh mint. Got leftover pie filling? Use it as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or even swirl it into oatmeal for a breakfast treat inspired by this pie’s comforting flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your pie loosely with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for 3 to 4 days, making it a perfect treat to enjoy throughout the week.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully! Wrap the whole baked pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently in the oven before serving.
Reheating
Reheat leftover slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. This brings back the flakiness of the crust and the warmth of the filling without turning soggy, making every bite taste fresh from the oven.
FAQs
Can I use different types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp creates a wonderful balance of flavor and texture. Just make sure to choose apples that hold their shape well when baked.
Is it okay to use store-bought pie crust?
Yes, store-bought pie crusts are a perfect time-saver and work wonderfully in this recipe, especially for beginners. Just ensure they are slightly softened before rolling out for easier handling.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Blind baking the bottom crust is not necessary here if you follow the baking instructions carefully. Placing the pie on the lower rack and letting it cool fully will help the crust stay crisp. You can also use a pie shield or foil on the edges to prevent over-browning.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for the filling thickener, and use a gluten-free pie crust available at many stores or homemade if you prefer.
What’s the secret to a glossy, golden crust?
The egg wash is the magic step for that beautiful shiny finish. A simple mixture of beaten egg and water brushed over the crust before baking gives it that inviting golden color and subtle sheen.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about mastering The Easiest Apple Pie Recipe (Beginner Friendly) – Simple, Comforting, and Foolproof Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of approachable baking and delicious reward that makes you feel like a kitchen legend. Whether it’s your first pie or your fifteenth, this recipe promises a classic taste with joyous simplicity, inviting you to share warmth and a sweet slice of happiness with everyone around your table. Go ahead, give it a try — your next favorite pie experience is just a baking step away!
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The Easiest Apple Pie Recipe (Beginner Friendly) – Simple, Comforting, and Foolproof Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 3 hours 15 minutes (including cooling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This beginner-friendly apple pie recipe is simple, comforting, and foolproof, featuring a classic combination of tart and sweet apples, warm spices, and a buttery flaky crust. Perfect for any occasion, this pie offers a delicious homemade treat that’s surprisingly easy to make using store-bought or homemade pie crusts.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 2 pie crusts (store-bought refrigerated dough or homemade)
Filling
- 6–7 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional, for deeper flavor)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (extra thickening help, especially for juicier apples)
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (keeps apples bright and balances sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Finishing
- 1 egg, beaten with 1 tablespoon water (egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Preheat and prep: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a rack in the lower third of the oven to help the bottom crust cook through. Set out your pie crusts to soften slightly if using store-bought.
- Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into even slices about 1/4 inch thick. Place them in a large bowl and toss with lemon juice to prevent browning.
- Mix the filling: In the same bowl, add granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla. Toss until the apples are evenly coated. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to draw out some juices.
- Line the pie dish: Unroll one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan. Press it gently into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess hanging over the rim, leaving about 1/2 inch.
- Fill the pie: Add the apple mixture to the crust, mounding slightly in the center. Dot the top with small pieces of butter to add richness and help the filling gloss up.
- Top crust: Place the second crust over the apple filling. Trim and tuck the edges under, then crimp with your fingers or a fork to seal. Cut 4–5 small slits in the top to let steam escape. For a lattice, slice the crust into strips and weave them over the filling before sealing.
- Brush and sprinkle: Brush the top with egg wash for shine and color. Sprinkle with coarse sugar if you like a little crunch.
- Bake hot, then lower: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20 minutes. Then reduce the heat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for another 30–35 minutes, until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling through the vents.
- Protect the edges: If the crust edges brown too quickly, cover them loosely with foil or use a pie shield during the last 20 minutes.
- Cool before slicing: Let the pie cool on a rack for at least 2 hours. This helps the filling set so you get neat slices instead of a runny mess.
Notes
- Using a mix of tart and sweet apples (like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp) balances flavor and texture.
- Keeping lemon juice on the apples prevents browning and adds a subtle tang.
- Letting the filling rest draws out juices and helps thicken the filling during baking.
- Egg wash on the crust promotes even browning and adds a glossy finish.
- Cover crust edges with foil or a pie shield if they brown too quickly to avoid burning.
- Cooling the pie completely before slicing ensures clean slices and prevents a messy filling.
- Use coarse sugar on top for a crunchy texture and a touch of extra sweetness.
