When you need a show-stopping dessert that appeals to everyone, this Best Apple Pie Recipe is the ultimate solution. Among easy dessert recipes for a crowd, a classic apple pie stands out for its nostalgic flavor and ability to feed a large group. With a flaky, buttery crust and a filling that perfectly balances tart apples with sweet spices, this pie is guaranteed to be the highlight of your gathering.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Perfect for Entertaining
Apple pie is the quintessential sharing dessert. One large deep-dish pie can easily yield 8 to 10 slices. It transports well, holds its temperature, and tastes just as good at room temperature as it does warm, making it stress-free for hosts.
Texture Perfection
The secret to this recipe lies in the apple selection. By using firm apples, the filling maintains a pleasant bite rather than turning into mush. Combined with a crust that shatters when you slice it, every bite offers a delightful contrast of textures.
Ingredients
- 2 rounds Pie dough (homemade or store-bought)
- 6 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
- 0.75 cup Granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp All-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp Lemon juice
- 1 tbsp Butter, cubed
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss apple slices with sugar, flour, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
- Line pie plate with dough, fill with apples, and dot with butter.
- Cover with top crust, seal edges, and cut vents.
- Bake for 15 mins at 425°F, then reduce to 375°F for 45 mins.
Ingredient Highlights & Substitutions
Essential Ingredients
Granny Smith apples are the gold standard for baking due to their tartness and firmness. You will also need cold unsalted butter for the pastry, cinnamon, nutmeg, fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavor, and sugar.
Smart Substitutions
If you find Granny Smiths too tart, try a mix of Granny Smith and Braeburn or Honeycrisp apples. You can use a high-quality store-bought pie crust if you are short on time. For a unique twist, add a handful of dried cranberries or raisins to the filling.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prep Phase
Prepare your pie dough and let it chill in the fridge for at least an hour. Peel, core, and slice your apples into uniform 1/4-inch slices. In a large bowl, toss the apples with lemon juice, sugar, flour, and spices until evenly coated.
Cooking Phase
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out the bottom crust and line your pie plate. Mound the apples high in the center to prevent a gap from forming as they cook. Top with the second crust, trim and crimp the edges, and cut slits for steam to escape. Brush with egg wash and bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the heat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for another 45-50 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Technique Secrets
To prevent a soggy bottom, bake the pie on a preheated baking sheet or pizza stone. This delivers a blast of heat to the bottom crust immediately. Also, let the macerated apples sit for 15 minutes and discard some of the excess liquid before filling the pie if you prefer a less runny filling.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Patience is key. Do not slice into the pie while it is hot! The filling needs at least 3-4 hours to cool and set. If you cut it too early, the juices will run out, leaving you with a messy plate and a dry pie.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Presentation & Plating
Serve generous wedges with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cinnamon-spiced whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce adds an extra layer of indulgence.
Pairing Suggestions
If you are building a dessert buffet, this pie pairs beautifully with other handheld treats. Consider adding these Chocolate Chip Cookies to the table for those who prefer a grab-and-go option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1? Can I freeze this apple pie?
Yes, you can freeze it unbaked. Assemble the pie completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding extra time.
Q2? How do I keep the crust from burning?
If the edges are browning too fast, use a pie shield or fashion one out of aluminum foil to cover the crimped edges for the last 20 minutes of baking.
Q3? What is the best thickener?
All-purpose flour works well for a classic texture, but cornstarch or tapioca flour will result in a clearer, glossier filling.
Conclusion
Mastering this Best Apple Pie Recipe will make you the most popular person at any potluck or holiday dinner. It is a timeless classic that comforts the soul and satisfies the sweet tooth.
| Granny Smith | Tart, Firm, Holds Shape Best |
|---|---|
| Honeycrisp | Sweet, Crisp, Juicy |
| Golden Delicious | Milder, Softer Texture |
| Pink Lady | Balance of Sweet & Tart |
