The smell hits firstwarm cinnamon, buttery crust, tart apples bubbling in the oven. This easy apple pie is everything joyful and familiar, wrapped in flaky golden goodness. It’s making a cozy comeback on TikTok and Pinterest, and for good reason: stress-free, classic, and just plain lovely.
We’re talking simple steps, pantry staples, and no fuss. Just crisp apples, warm spice, and a flaky pie crust that tastes like fall hugs. The flavor? Like your grandma’s piebut on a tighter timeline. Perfect for weeknights, holidays, or just-because. Full details in the blog!
My mom taught me pie crust with a fork and wishful thinking. We made a spectacular mess and somehow nailed it. Now I’ve tested this version over and over for a balance of flaky, juicy, and quick. I tested it. You’ll love the secret!
Enjoy this easy apple pie that delivers a simple apple pie recipe experience with a flaky pie crust and cinnamon-spiced filling. It’s a homemade apple pie that’s perfect for family-friendly gatherings and festive fall desserts.
Ingredients
Scale
2 (9 inch) pie crusts
7 large Granny Smith apples peeled cored and sliced into ½ inch slices
½ cup granulated sugar
½ cup light brown sugar loosely packed
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice plus the zest of half of a lemon
1 large egg lightly beaten in a small bowl for egg wash
2 tablespoons sanding sugar optional
Instructions
Prepare the flaky pie crust dough or use store-bought crust and chill it for at least an hour before rolling.
Preheat your oven to 400°F 204°C and position the rack in the center.
Mix sliced apples with granulated sugar, light brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and zest until well coated.
Roll out one dough disc to 12 inch diameter and place it in a deep dish pie plate.
Pour the apple mixture into the crust, discarding excess juices, then cover with the second rolled-out dough disc.
Trim and seal the edges by folding and pressing them under; cut four vents on top to release steam.
Brush the pie top with egg wash and sprinkle optional sanding sugar.
Cover edges with foil or a pie shield and bake at 400°F for 25 minutes.
Remove the shield, reduce oven to 375°F, and bake for another 30 to 35 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Let the pie cool at room temperature for at least three hours before serving.
Notes
For crisp tops, broil 2–3 minutes at the end
Prep Time:1 hour
Cook Time:1 hour
Category:Dessert
Method:Baked
Cuisine:American
Nutrition
Calories:417kcal
Sugar:46g
Sodium:189mg
Fat:12g
Saturated Fat:4g
Unsaturated Fat:2g + 5g
Trans Fat:1g
Carbohydrates:77g
Fiber:6g
Protein:4g
Cholesterol:23mg
Why You’ll Love This Easy Apple Pie
This easy apple pie recipe is truly the ultimate fall treat. It’s wonderfully nostalgiceach bite evokes memories of cozy family dinners and heartwarming holiday gatherings. Best of all, it’s stress-free! With no overly complicated steps, just simple ingredients and clear directions, you’ll feel like a seasoned baker, even if pies aren’t your usual go-to.
You’ll also adore the perfect balance of textures. Tart Granny Smith apples soften beautifully in the oven, mingling with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, while the wonderfully flaky pie crust adds a buttery crunch. And that heavenly aroma that will fill your kitchen? Pure magic!
Key Ingredients & Tools
Every great apple pie begins with the right ingredients and a few essential tools. This recipe keeps it simple yet delivers incredible flavor:
Granny Smith apples: Their tartness balances the sweetness and holds up beautifully when baked.
Warm spices: Ground cinnamon and a touch of nutmeg bring that cozy fall vibe we all crave.
Lemon juice: A hint of acidity brightens up the filling and keeps those apple slices fresh.
Homemade or store-bought pie crust: Use homemade for extra applause or opt for store-bought for convenienceboth work wonderfully!
Essential tools for this recipe include a deep-dish pie plate, a rolling pin, and a sharp knife, plus a pastry brush for that beautiful golden egg wash finish.
Simple Steps to Make It
If you’re hesitant about pie-making, don’t be. This easy apple pie recipe simplifies the process into these fuss-free steps:
Prep your crust: Roll out your dough for the base, place it into your pie dish, and chill while you make the filling.
Make the filling: Toss apple slices with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and zest. Toss until the apples are evenly coated with the mixture. Don’t be afraid to use your hands for thorough mixing!
Assemble: Layer the filling into your pie crust, roll out the second crust, and place it over the filling. Seal the edges by folding and crimping, then cut steam vents in the top.
Egg wash and sugar: Brush the top crust with beaten egg and, for an extra sparkle, sprinkle with sanding sugar.
Bake: Start at 400°F, then reduce to 375°F after 25 minutes. This dual-temp trick guarantees a golden, flaky crust and perfectly tender apples. Let the pie cool for at least three hours before slicing.
Pro Tip: Place your pie dish on a baking sheet to catch any juices that bubble over. Less mess is always a win!
Pro Tips & Variations
Pies aren’t one-size-fits-all, which is why we encourage you to customize and play:
No Granny Smith on hand? If Granny Smith apples aren’t on hand, substitute with Honeycrisp or Braeburn apples for a sweeter twist.
Want extra spice? Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom to the filling for a unique flavor boost.
Gluten-free crust? There are excellent pre-made options at most grocery stores, or use your favorite homemade recipe.
Shortcut: Short on time? Go with a pre-made pie crustit’s a lifesaver without sacrificing flavor.
Serving, Storage, & Reheating
Serving: Pair slices of this apple pie dessert with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate cozy treat. A drizzle of caramel wouldn’t hurt either!
Storage: Store any leftover pie covered on the counter for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 20–30 seconds, or pop the entire pie in a 350°F oven for about 10–15 minutes to revive that fresh-baked feel.
Storage Method
Duration
Reheating Tip
Room Temperature (covered)
Up to 2 days
N/A
Refrigerator
Up to 4 days
Microwave for 20–30 seconds
Freezer (wrapped tightly)
Up to 3 months
Thaw overnight, then bake at 350°F for 15 minutes
Pro Tip: Freeze individual slices for quick treat-sized portions whenever the craving hits!
Expert Says
Using a simple mix of tart and sweet apples enhances the flavor balance in an EASY APPLE PIE, while the natural pectin in apples helps thicken the filling as it bakes. To ensure a tender crust, keep ingredients cold and avoid overworking the dough for the best texture.
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The Journey to an Easy Apple Pie
It took me several attempts to get this easy apple pie just rightone time I rushed and ended up with soggy crust, another time I went heavy on the spices. After tweaking and tasting through the seasons, I’m excited to share the recipe that finally hits that cozy, balanced note every time.
FAQs ( Easy Apple Pie )
How do I make a flaky pie crust for this recipe?
Use cold butter or shortening cut into the flour and work quickly to keep the ingredients chilled. Avoid overmixing dough; small lumps of butter create flaky layers. Chill the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling out and bake on a lower oven rack for even browning and crispness.
Can I use frozen apples in this dish?
Fresh apples work best to maintain texture, but if using frozen, thaw completely and drain excess liquid to avoid soggy filling. Pat apples dry with paper towels and consider adding a bit more thickener like flour or cornstarch to absorb moisture during baking.
What type of apples are best for a simple apple pie recipe?
Tart and firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn hold up well during baking and provide a nice balance of sweetness and acidity. Mixing a couple of types can add depth of flavor and texture for a classic taste that complements the cinnamon and spices used.
How can I prevent the pie crust from getting soggy?
Brush the pie crust with a thin layer of beaten egg or melted butter before adding the filling to create a moisture barrier. Bake the bottom crust blind for 10 minutes prior to adding the filling to firm it up. Also, avoid overloading with filling and use a thickener like flour to keep juices contained.
Can this apple pie be made ahead of time?
This dish can be assembled a day ahead and stored in the fridge covered tightly. Bake it just before serving to keep the crust flaky. Leftover pie also reheats well at a low temperature for about 10-15 minutes to refresh the crust texture.
Conclusion
After just about an hour in the kitchen, you’ll have a simple apple pie recipe that fills your home with that unbeatable aroma of cinnamon and flaky crust. You’ll love how the tender, juicy apples peek through golden edges, offering a cozy slice of fall in every bite. It’s the kind of classic apple pie that makes weeknights feel like holidayseffortless comfort with a little wow.
For a twist, try sprinkling a hint of cardamom or swapping Granny Smiths for a sweeter variety like Honeycrisp. Don’t worry if you’re short on timea store-bought crust still ensures flaky success. For leftovers, simply pop your pie slice in the microwave for 20 seconds to revive that warm, spiced goodness and fresh-baked magic.
I’d love to see your cozy creationssnap a photo or share your apple pie stories in the comments. Did this family friendly apple pie remind you of a beloved recipe from your past? Save it, share it, and let’s keep the warmth of homemade desserts flowing. Because around here, every slice is a little taste of home.
Sharing a handpicked collection of easy, healthy recipes made in our family kitchen. Rachel brings comforting classics, while Emily adds fresh, modern ideas together creating meals that are simple, flavorful, and family-friendly.
