The Classic Apple Pie is a quintessential American dessert featuring a buttery, flaky crust filled with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples. This comforting and nostalgic pie is perfect for family gatherings, holiday dinners, or cozy afternoons with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
Cut in the Butter:
Add the cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture.
Use a pastry cutter or fork to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Add Ice Water:
Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough begins to clump together.
Divide the dough in half, shape each half into a disk, and wrap in plastic wrap.
Chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour.
Slice the Apples:
Peel, core, and slice the apples into 1/4-inch thick slices.
Place the slices in a large bowl.
Mix the Filling:
Add sugar, brown sugar, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt to the apples.
Toss to coat the apples evenly and set aside.
Roll Out the Bottom Crust:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the first dough disk into a 12-inch circle.
Gently transfer it to a 9-inch pie pan, pressing it into the bottom and sides.
Add the Filling:
Pour the apple mixture into the crust and spread evenly.
Dot the top with butter cubes.
Roll Out the Top Crust:
Roll out the second dough disk into another 12-inch circle.
Place it over the apples and trim the excess, leaving a 1-inch overhang.
Seal and Crimp:
Fold the overhang under itself and crimp the edges with a fork or your fingers.
Cut 4-5 slits in the top crust for steam to escape.
Prepare the Egg Wash:
In a small bowl, whisk together egg and milk.
Brush the egg wash over the top crust for a golden, glossy finish.
Bake the Pie:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Place the pie on the center rack and bake for 20 minutes.
Reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 35-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
If the crust is browning too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil.
Cool the Pie:
Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for 2 hours before slicing. This ensures the filling sets properly.
Slice and Serve:
Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Serve the apple pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of salted caramel sauce for an extra indulgence.
For a more rustic presentation, dust the top crust with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar before baking.
Caramel Apple Pie: Add a drizzle of caramel sauce to the apple filling for extra richness.
Crumble Topping: Replace the top crust with a brown sugar and oat crumble for a different texture.
Nutty Apple Pie: Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple filling for a nutty crunch.
Spiced Apple Pie: Increase the cinnamon to 1 1/2 tsp and add a pinch of allspice for a spicier pie.
Mini Apple Pies: Use a muffin tin to create individual servings for parties or gatherings.
8 servings