There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of a homemade apple pie baking in the oven. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, making an easy homemade apple pie recipe from scratch is a rewarding experience that fills your home with warmth and nostalgia.
This fresh apple pie recipe is simple, yet incredibly delicious. It features a buttery, flaky crust and a perfectly spiced homemade apple pie filling, making it the ultimate home made apple pie for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering, the holidays, or just because, this guide will walk you through the entire process, from how to make apple pie from scratch to storage tips and serving suggestions.
2: Introduction
The History and Tradition of Homemade Apple Pie
Apple pie is one of the most iconic desserts in American and European baking. While many people associate homemade apple pie with the United States, its origins actually date back to the 14th century in England, where the first written recipe appeared. Early versions used a variety of apples, spices, and even figs or pears to enhance the flavor. By the time European settlers arrived in North America, they brought their love of apple pie from scratch with them, leading to the creation of the beloved home made apple pie recipe we enjoy today.
Why This Easy Homemade Apple Pie Recipe is Worth Trying
There’s something special about making a fresh apple pie recipe from scratch. The process of peeling, slicing, and seasoning the apples allows you to control the flavors and sweetness to your preference. This homemade apple pie recipe is:
- Easy to follow – even for beginners.
- Made with simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find.
- Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday dessert, a weekend treat, or a comforting slice with coffee.
- Customizable – you can adjust the sweetness, add nuts, or experiment with different apple varieties.
Many store-bought pies use artificial ingredients and preservatives, but making your own apple pie from scratch recipe ensures a healthier, more flavorful dessert. Plus, the combination of a buttery crust and a warm, cinnamon-spiced homemade apple pie filling is simply irresistible.
3: Ingredients for Easy Homemade Apple Pie
A great homemade apple pie recipe starts with quality ingredients. Below, you’ll find a detailed list of everything you need to make both the homemade apple pie filling and the flaky pie crust from scratch.
Ingredients for the Pie Crust
To make the best homemade apple pie, you need a buttery, flaky crust that holds up well to the filling. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour (for a tender, crisp crust)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional, for a hint of sweetness)
- 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 6–8 tablespoons ice water (just enough to bring the dough together)
Substitutes:
- For a gluten-free crust, use gluten-free all-purpose flour.
- For a dairy-free option, substitute butter with vegan butter or coconut oil.
Ingredients for the Homemade Apple Pie Filling
A good apple pie filling homemade recipe should be well-balanced—sweet, spiced, and slightly tart. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 6–7 medium apples (about 2 ½ pounds), peeled, cored, and sliced
- Best apple varieties: Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Braeburn for a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (55g) brown sugar (adds depth and caramel notes)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional but enhances flavor)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (prevents apples from browning and balances sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch or flour (to thicken the filling)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for extra warmth)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces (adds richness)
Optional Add-Ins:
- ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy twist.
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves for a spicier flavor.
Egg Wash (for a Golden-Brown Crust)
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tablespoon milk or water
4: How to Make Homemade Apple Pie – Step by Step
Now that we have all the ingredients, let’s go through each step of making the best homemade apple pie recipe from scratch. Follow these simple instructions to create a flaky pie crust and a delicious homemade apple pie filling.
Step4.1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar.
- Cut in the Butter: Add cold, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Using a pastry cutter or your hands, mix until the butter pieces are the size of small peas.
- Add Ice Water: Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough holds together.
- Form the Dough: Divide the dough into two equal portions, shape each into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours).
Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, you can use a food processor to blend the dough quickly.
Step4.2: Make the Homemade Apple Pie Filling
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice 6–7 apples into ¼-inch thick slices.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
- Let it Rest: Allow the mixture to sit for 15–20 minutes to release the apple juices. Stir occasionally.
Pro Tip: If your apples release too much liquid, drain some to prevent a soggy crust.
Step4.3: Roll Out the Pie Dough
- Flour Your Surface: Lightly dust your work surface with flour to prevent sticking.
- Roll Out the Dough: Using a rolling pin, roll out one dough disc into a 12-inch circle (about ⅛-inch thick).
- Transfer to Pie Dish: Carefully lift the dough and place it into a 9-inch pie dish. Press gently to fit the bottom and sides.
Step4.4: Assemble the Pie
- Fill the Pie: Spoon the homemade apple pie filling into the crust, spreading it evenly.
- Add Butter: Dot the filling with small pieces of unsalted butter for extra richness.
Step4.5: Top the Pie
- Classic Double Crust: Roll out the second dough disc and place it over the filling. Trim excess, seal the edges, and cut slits in the top to release steam.
- Lattice Crust (Optional): Cut the second dough disc into strips and weave a lattice pattern on top.
- Egg Wash: Brush the crust with a beaten egg mixed with milk or water for a golden finish.
Step4.6: Bake the Apple Pie
- Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie on the middle rack and bake for 45–50 minutes until golden brown. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil or a pie shield.
- Cool Before Serving: Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set.
Pro Tip: Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for the ultimate dessert experience.
5: Helpful Tips for Homemade Apple Pie
To make the best homemade apple pie recipe, here are some expert tips that will enhance flavor, texture, and overall success when baking this classic dessert.
1. Choose the Right Apples
The key to a great fresh apple pie recipe is using the right apples. Some apples hold their shape better and have the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
- Best apples for homemade apple pie:
- Granny Smith – Tart, firm, and holds up well during baking.
- Honeycrisp – Sweet and crisp, adds natural sweetness.
- Fuji – Juicy and slightly tart, balances flavors well.
- Braeburn – Firm and aromatic, adds depth to the pie.
Avoid using overly soft apples like Red Delicious, as they turn mushy when baked.
2. Prevent a Soggy Bottom Crust
A crispy pie crust is essential for the perfect homemade apple pie. Here’s how to avoid a soggy crust:
- Blind bake the crust – Pre-bake the bottom crust for 5–7 minutes before adding the filling.
- Use a cornstarch mixture – Toss the apples with cornstarch to absorb excess juices.
- Bake on the lower oven rack – This helps the bottom crust crisp up faster.
3. Chill the Dough for a Flaky Crust
For the best apple pie from scratch recipe, always chill the dough before rolling it out. Cold butter creates steam pockets during baking, leading to a perfectly flaky texture.
4. Adjust the Sweetness to Your Taste
- If you prefer a less sweet pie, reduce the sugar by ¼ cup.
- For a sweeter apple pie, add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar or drizzle with honey before baking.
5. Enhance the Flavor with Extra Spices
While cinnamon is a staple, adding other spices can take your homemade apple pie filling to the next level:
- Nutmeg – Adds warmth and depth.
- Cloves – Gives a hint of spice.
- Allspice – Brings a slightly peppery note.
6. Make-Ahead and Freezing Tips
- Make the dough ahead: Pie dough can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Prepare the filling in advance: The apple mixture can be refrigerated overnight before baking.
- Freeze the whole pie: Assemble the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 60–70 minutes.
6: Cooking Tips for the Best Homemade Apple Pie
Baking a homemade apple pie that turns out golden, flaky, and full of perfectly spiced apples requires attention to technique. Here are some expert cooking tips for homemade apple pie to ensure the best results.
1. Keep Everything Cold for a Flaky Crust
For the best home made apple pie recipe, always keep your ingredients cold:
- Use cold butter and ice water when making the crust.
- Chill the dough for at least 1 hour before rolling it out.
- If your kitchen is warm, chill the pie for 15 minutes before baking.
2. Bake at the Right Temperature
A well-baked fresh apple pie recipe requires a two-step baking temperature:
- Start at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes to crisp the crust.
- Reduce to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 30–35 minutes to cook the filling evenly.
Pro Tip: If the crust browns too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil or a pie shield.
3. Use a Thickening Agent for the Filling
To prevent a runny filling, use cornstarch or flour to absorb excess moisture:
- Cornstarch: Creates a clear, glossy filling.
- Flour: Gives a slightly thicker, rustic texture.
4. Let the Pie Cool Completely
After baking, allow the homemade apple pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This helps the apple pie filling homemade recipe set properly.
5. Brush the Crust for a Perfect Golden Finish
Before baking, apply an egg wash to achieve a golden brown crust:
- For a deep golden color: Use 1 egg yolk + 1 tablespoon heavy cream.
- For a lighter crust: Use 1 whole egg + 1 tablespoon milk.
6. Bake with a Tray Underneath
Place a baking sheet on the lower oven rack to catch any juice overflow and keep your oven clean.
7. Add a Crunchy Sugar Topping (Optional)
For extra texture and a bakery-style finish, sprinkle the crust with:
- Turbinado sugar
- Cinnamon sugar
7: Serving Suggestions for Homemade Apple Pie
A warm slice of homemade apple pie is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments can take it to the next level. Here are some of the best ways to serve your easy homemade apple pie recipe for an unforgettable dessert experience.
1. Classic Pairings
The traditional homemade apple pie recipe is best served with:
- Vanilla ice cream – The contrast between warm pie and cold ice cream is a classic combination.
- Whipped cream – Light and airy, whipped cream balances the rich flavors.
- Caramel sauce – Drizzle warm caramel over the pie for extra sweetness.
2. Warm or Chilled?
- Warm: If you love a fresh-from-the-oven taste, reheat slices at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes before serving.
- Chilled: Some people prefer cold homemade apple pie, especially during summer. Chill it in the fridge for at least 2 hours before serving.
3. Creative Toppings and Add-Ons
For a unique twist, try these flavorful additions:
- Cinnamon sugar dusting – Adds extra spice and crunch.
- Toasted pecans or walnuts – A nutty crunch enhances the texture.
- Cheddar cheese – A surprising but traditional combination; the sharpness of the cheese complements the sweetness of the apples.
4. Drinks That Pair Well with Homemade Apple Pie
Complete your fresh apple pie recipe experience with the perfect drink pairing:
- Coffee or espresso – A rich, dark roast balances the sweetness.
- Spiced chai tea – The warm spices complement the cinnamon in the pie.
- Apple cider (hot or cold) – A cozy autumn-inspired pairing.
- Bourbon or whiskey – Adds warmth and depth when served with pie.
5. Presentation Tips for a Stunning Dessert
Make your home made apple pie look bakery-worthy with these plating techniques:
- Serve slices on decorative plates with a drizzle of caramel or powdered sugar.
- Garnish with a sprig of mint or cinnamon stick for extra visual appeal.
- Use a warm knife (dip in hot water and wipe dry) for clean, precise slices.
8: Nutritional Information for Homemade Apple Pie
Understanding the nutritional content of your homemade apple pie recipe can help you enjoy this classic dessert while keeping track of your dietary needs. Below, we break down the essential nutrients found in a single slice of home made apple pie.
Health Benefits of Homemade Apple Pie
While apple pie is considered an indulgent treat, it does offer some nutritional benefits:
- Apples are rich in fiber – A key ingredient in homemade apple pie filling, apples provide dietary fiber, which supports digestion and promotes satiety.
- Cinnamon has antioxidant properties – The spices in apple pie, particularly cinnamon, contain antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation.
- Homemade crusts contain less processed ingredients – Unlike store-bought pies, making an apple pie from scratch recipe allows you to control the ingredients, avoiding artificial additives.
Is Homemade Apple Pie Healthy?
While a traditional homemade apple pie recipe is not low in calories, you can make some adjustments to create a healthier version:
- Reduce sugar – Use ½ cup of sugar instead of ¾ cup.
- Use whole wheat flour – A more fiber-rich alternative for the crust.
- Choose a lattice crust – Reduces the amount of dough used, lowering the calorie count.
9: Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values per slice of homemade apple pie (based on an 8-slice pie):
Nutritional Facts Per Serving (1 Slice of Homemade Apple Pie)
- Calories: 350–400 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 50g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 30g
- Protein: 3g
- Calcium: 30mg
- Iron: 1mg
- Potassium: 170mg
Nutritional Adjustments for Dietary Preferences
- Lower-calorie option: Reduce sugar by 25% and use a lattice crust to cut down on dough.
- Gluten-free alternative: Substitute gluten-free flour for the pie crust.
- Dairy-free alternative: Use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter.
- Keto-friendly version: Use a low-carb almond flour crust and sugar substitutes like erythritol.
This nutritional information for homemade apple pie can help you make informed choices while enjoying this classic dessert.
10: Storage and Leftovers for Homemade Apple Pie
Properly storing your homemade apple pie ensures it stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible. Whether you want to keep it at room temperature, refrigerate it, or freeze it for later, here’s the best way to store your easy homemade apple pie recipe.
1. How to Store Homemade Apple Pie at Room Temperature
If you plan to eat your fresh apple pie recipe within 1–2 days, it can be stored at room temperature.
- Cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess.
- Cover loosely with aluminum foil or a clean kitchen towel.
- Keep in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
2. How to Store Homemade Apple Pie in the Refrigerator
For longer storage, keep your homemade apple pie recipe in the fridge:
- Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days.
- Before serving, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.
3. How to Freeze Homemade Apple Pie
If you want to make ahead and freeze apple pie, follow these steps:
Freezing a Baked Apple Pie
- Let the pie cool completely after baking.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30–40 minutes until warmed through.
Freezing an Unbaked Apple Pie
- Assemble the apple pie from scratch recipe as usual, but do not bake.
- Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
- When ready to bake, do not thaw—bake directly from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 50–60 minutes.
4. How to Prevent a Soggy Pie When Reheating
- Use an oven instead of a microwave for better texture.
- Reheat on a baking sheet to crisp up the bottom crust.
- If reheating a whole pie, cover the edges with foil to prevent burning.
11: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Homemade Apple Pie
Making a homemade apple pie comes with common questions, especially for beginners. Below are some frequently asked questions with detailed answers to help you perfect your easy homemade apple pie recipe.
1. What Are the Best Apples for Homemade Apple Pie?
For the best homemade apple pie filling, use apples that hold their shape and have a balance of tart and sweet flavors. Some of the best choices include:
- Granny Smith – Tart and firm, perfect for a well-balanced pie.
- Honeycrisp – Naturally sweet with a crisp texture.
- Fuji – Juicy and sweet, pairs well with cinnamon.
- Braeburn – Slightly tart with a firm texture.
Avoid overly soft apples like Red Delicious or McIntosh, as they become mushy when baked.
2. How Do I Keep the Bottom Crust from Getting Soggy?
A soggy crust can ruin your homemade apple pie recipe. Here’s how to prevent it:
- Blind bake the crust – Pre-bake the bottom crust for 5–7 minutes before adding the filling.
- Use cornstarch or flour in the filling – This helps absorb excess apple juices.
- Bake at a high temperature initially – Starting at 400°F (200°C) helps set the crust before the filling softens it.
- Place the pie on the lower oven rack – This ensures the bottom crust cooks evenly.
3. Can I Make Apple Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes! Here’s how:
- Make the pie dough and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
- Prepare the filling ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before assembling the pie.
- Fully bake the pie and store it at room temperature for 1–2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freeze the entire pie (baked or unbaked) for up to 3 months.
4. How Do I Get a Golden-Brown Crust?
For a perfectly golden homemade apple pie crust, use an egg wash before baking:
- For a deep golden crust – Mix 1 egg yolk with 1 tablespoon heavy cream.
- For a lighter crust – Mix 1 whole egg with 1 tablespoon milk.
- For a shiny finish – Brush with a little melted butter after baking.
12: 2 Related Recipes for Homemade Apple Pie Lovers
If you love this homemade apple pie recipe, you might also enjoy these delicious apple-inspired desserts. These recipes use similar ingredients but offer different textures and flavors, making them perfect alternatives to traditional home made apple pie.
1. Apple Crumble – A Quick and Easy Alternative
Apple crumble is a simpler version of apple pie that skips the crust and replaces it with a crunchy, buttery topping. It’s perfect for when you’re craving the flavors of homemade apple pie filling but want a faster, easier dessert.
Ingredients for Apple Crumble
- 4–5 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
How to Make Apple Crumble
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Toss the apple slices with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
- In a separate bowl, mix flour, oats, brown sugar, salt, and melted butter until crumbly.
- Spread the apples in the dish and sprinkle the crumble topping over them.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes until the top is golden brown.
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Try this easy apple crumble recipe for a quick and comforting dessert!
2. Caramel Apple Galette – A Rustic Apple Pie Alternative
A galette is a free-form, rustic apple pie that requires no pie dish. It’s easier to make than traditional apple pie but just as delicious.
Ingredients for Caramel Apple Galette
- 1 homemade or store-bought pie crust
- 3 medium apples, thinly sliced
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons caramel sauce
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon milk
How to Make Caramel Apple Galette
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the pie dough into a 12-inch circle and place it on the sheet.
- Toss the apple slices with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch.
- Arrange the apples in the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges.
- Fold the edges over the apples, pleating as you go.
- Brush the crust with egg wash (1 egg + 1 tablespoon milk) for a golden finish.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes until golden brown.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving.
Try this rustic caramel apple galette for an effortless yet stunning dessert!
Conclusion – Make the Best Homemade Apple Pie Today!
Now that you have the ultimate easy homemade apple pie recipe, it’s time to get baking! Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, a family gathering, or just because you love the comforting flavors of homemade apple pie, this recipe will always deliver a golden, flaky crust and a perfectly spiced homemade apple pie filling.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Easy to follow – Simple, step-by-step instructions for beginners and experienced bakers alike.
Customizable – Adjust the sweetness, add different spices, or try new apple varieties.
Perfect texture – A crisp, buttery crust with a soft, flavorful filling.
Great for any occasion – Whether it’s a holiday dessert or a cozy weekend treat, this apple pie from scratch recipe is always a hit.
Try It and Share Your Thoughts!
Now that you know how to make homemade apple pie, we’d love to hear from you! Have you tried this fresh apple pie recipe? Do you have any special variations or baking tips?
👉 Leave a comment below and let us know how your pie turned out! If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it with friends and family.
Looking for More Delicious Desserts?
Check out our related apple recipes:
🍏 Apple Crumble – A Quick and Easy Dessert
🍏 Rustic Caramel Apple Galette