This best apple pie recipe features a perfectly spiced filling made with Granny Smith apples, cinnamon, and a buttery, flaky crust. The lattice pie crust adds a rustic touch, making it not only delicious but visually stunning. Easy to make and perfect for any occasion, this homemade apple pie will be a hit at your next holiday gathering or family dinner. The combination of sweet and tart apples with a rich, golden crust is the epitome of comfort food. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate treat!

Ingredients:

1 recipe for double pie crust
2 1/4 lbs Granny Smith apples (about 6-7 apples or 7 cups thinly sliced), peeled and cored
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
8 Tbsp unsalted butter
3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
1/4 cup water
1 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg (for egg wash) + 1 Tbsp water

Instructions:

Prepare the pie crust according to your recipe, then chill it while you prepare the filling.
Preheat your oven to 425˚F (220˚C).
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and let it simmer for about 1 minute while whisking constantly.
Gradually whisk in the water and sugar, bringing the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Remove from heat.
Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples into 7 cups. Toss the apple slices with the cinnamon in a large mixing bowl.
Pour the butter-flour sauce over the apples and stir gently to coat them evenly.
Roll out the bottom pie crust to a 12-inch circle and place it into a 9-inch pie plate. Spoon the apple mixture into the crust, mounding it slightly in the center, making sure not to spill any filling on the crust edges.
Roll the second pie crust into an 11-inch round and cut it into 10 even strips using a pizza cutter. Lay the strips over the pie in a woven lattice pattern (see video tutorial for help).
Beat the egg with 1 Tbsp of water to make an egg wash, and brush the lattice top with the mixture.
Bake the pie for 15 minutes at 425˚F. Then reduce the temperature to 350˚F (175˚C) and bake for another 45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the filling is bubbling through the lattice.
Let the pie cool for 1 hour before serving to allow the filling to set.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This best apple pie recipe is a timeless classic with a rich, buttery, flaky crust and a perfectly spiced filling. The Granny Smith apples give the pie the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, making it irresistible for dessert lovers. Whether it’s for a holiday or a family gathering, this pie will surely be a crowd-pleaser. The lattice crust adds a touch of elegance, making it not only delicious but visually stunning!

Tips:

Chill your pie dough: Make sure your pie dough is properly chilled before rolling it out. This ensures a flaky, tender crust.
Use a mix of apples: While Granny Smith apples are perfect for the tartness, you can mix them with sweeter apples like Honeycrisp for a more complex flavor.
Prevent soggy crust: If you’re worried about a soggy bottom crust, pre-bake the bottom crust for 5-7 minutes before adding the filling.
Make ahead: You can prepare the pie crust and apple filling the day before and store them separately in the fridge until ready to assemble and bake.

Variations and Substitutions:

Add a touch of nutmeg: For an added layer of spice, mix a pinch of ground nutmeg with the cinnamon.
Different crust: If you prefer a different crust, try using a graham cracker crust for a twist on the traditional.
Vegan: For a vegan option, swap the butter for a plant-based butter alternative and use a flax egg wash instead of the egg wash.

FAQs:

Can I use a different type of apple? Yes, you can use other tart apples like Jonathan or Braeburn, but Granny Smiths are typically preferred for their tartness and firmness.

Can I make this ahead? Yes, you can prepare the apple pie and refrigerate it before baking, or you can bake it in advance and store it for up to 3 days at room temperature.

How do I prevent the top crust from over-browning? If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking until the pie is fully cooked.

Serving:

This apple pie is best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It also pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot cinnamon-spiced tea or coffee for the ultimate dessert experience.

Suggestions:

For an extra indulgence, top your slice with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a sweet touch. If you’re feeling adventurous, serve it with a side of cheddar cheese—a popular pairing in some regions for a savory contrast to the sweet filling.