Apple Pie - Fraîche Living

Name: Apple Pie - Fraîche Living
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 6 cups of sliced apples (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp recommended); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the warmth of homemade Apple Pie that's bursting with fresh flavors and a buttery crust.

Created by

Gwendolyn Reed

Last updated on 2025-12-19T15:01:00.165Z

This classic Apple Pie recipe is perfect for any occasion, combining sweet and tart apples with warm spices.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Warm, comforting flavors that remind you of home
Perfectly flaky crust that pairs beautifully with the filling
A delightful mix of sweet and tart apples for the ultimate taste

      

The History of Apple Pie

Apple pie has long been regarded as an iconic symbol of American culture, often referred to as 'as American as apple pie.' Its roots, however, can be traced back to ancient civilizations where apples were cultivated and sweetened pies were created. The earliest known recipe for apple pie dates back to the 14th century in England, where it was made with apples, spices, and sometimes even meat. Over the centuries, this delightful dessert has evolved, leading to the modern version that we know and love today.

As settlers made their way to America, they brought with them the tradition of making pies. The abundant apple orchards in the New World provided the perfect opportunity to create the sweet and comforting dessert that would become a staple in American households. Today, apple pie is often associated with family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions, celebrating the timeless joy of sharing a homemade treat.

Choosing the Right Apples

Selecting the right apples is crucial for crafting the perfect apple pie. Granny Smith apples are a popular choice due to their tartness, which balances well with the sweetness of sugar and other ingredients. Honeycrisp apples, on the other hand, add a delightful crunch and natural sweetness that enhances the overall flavor profile. Combining these two varieties creates a beautifully balanced filling that offers both sweet and tart notes in every bite.

When choosing apples, look for those that are firm and free of bruises. Fresh, in-season apples will yield the best flavor and texture. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding other types of apples like Fuji or Braeburn to your mix. This not only adds complexity to the flavor but also creates a delightful texture contrast in your pie.

Tips for a Perfect Crust

Achieving a perfectly flaky pie crust is an art that takes practice, but with a few tips, you can master it. First, ensure your butter is cold; this is key to creating that desired flakiness. When cutting the butter into the flour, stop when the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Overworking the dough can lead to a tough crust, so handle it as little as possible.

Another essential tip is to chill the dough before rolling it out. This helps the gluten relax, resulting in a more tender crust. After shaping the dough into discs, wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least an hour. This not only improves the texture but also makes it easier to roll out later.

Ingredients

For the Pie Filling

6 cups of sliced apples (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp recommended)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

For the Pie Crust

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon sugar
1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
6 to 8 tablespoons ice water

Instructions

Prepare the Pie Crust

In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the ice water a tablespoon at a time until the dough comes together.

Roll Out the Dough

Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Roll out one disc on a floured surface to fit your pie dish.

Make the Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Toss until the apples are well coated.

Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pour the apple filling into the prepared crust. Roll out the second disc and place over the filling. Seal the edges and cut slits in the top for steam to escape.

Bake the Pie

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 30 minutes, until the apples are soft and the crust is golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

Apple pie is delightful on its own, but serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream elevates the experience. The creaminess of the ice cream against the warm spiced apples creates a heavenly combination that is hard to resist. For an extra touch, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top for added sweetness and richness.

If you want to get creative, consider pairing your apple pie with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese. This classic combination offers a unique flavor contrast that many find irresistible. The savory notes of the cheddar complement the sweet and tart flavors of the pie beautifully, making each bite a memorable one.

Storage Tips

To store leftover apple pie, allow it to cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be kept at room temperature for up to two days. If you want to store it for a longer period, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for about a week. Just be sure to reheat it in the oven for the best texture and flavor.

For those who wish to enjoy apple pie later, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap the unbaked pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to bake it, there's no need to thaw; just add a few extra minutes to the baking time for a deliciously fresh pie straight from the freezer.

Variations to Try

While the classic apple pie is beloved, there are many variations to explore. For a unique twist, consider adding other fruits such as berries or pears to the filling. This not only adds flavor complexity but also enhances the pie's visual appeal. A combination of apples and cranberries, for example, offers a delightful tartness that perfectly complements the sweetness of the apples.

For those who prefer a different crust, consider making a crumb topping instead of a traditional pie crust. Combining oats, brown sugar, and butter creates a crunchy topping that pairs beautifully with the soft apple filling. This option adds a rustic feel to your pie and can be a delightful change from the norm.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?

Yes, frozen apples can be used, but ensure they're fully thawed and drained before using.

→ How do I store leftover apple pie?

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make the pie crust ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pie crust and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

→ What type of apples are best for apple pie?

A mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, works best for a balanced flavor.