If you have a sweet tooth and a soft spot for cozy, comforting desserts, then this Classic Spiced Baked Apple Pie Recipe will quickly become one of your absolute favorites. Imagine biting into a warm, fragrant pie with tender, cinnamon-kissed apples nestled beneath a perfectly golden, buttery crust. This recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in the most delightful way, bringing a homely charm and rich flavor that makes every slice unforgettable. Whether it’s a weekend treat or a festive centerpiece, this pie promises to fill your kitchen with the comforting scent of fall and put a smile on everyone’s face.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Classic Spiced Baked Apple Pie Recipe plays a crucial role, from lending texture to delivering the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. These simple, wholesome staples are what transform basic pantry items into a memorable homemade dessert.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a flaky, tender crust that encases the filling beautifully.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness of the apples.
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar (for the dough): Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced: The secret to that melt-in-your-mouth crust texture.
- 6 to 8 tbsp ice water: Helps bring the dough together without melting the butter, ensuring flakiness.
- 6 to 8 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced: Their tartness balances out the sweetness perfectly and holds up well during baking.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar (for the filling): Sweetens the spiced apples to just the right degree.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Thickens the filling, keeping it from becoming soggy.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Infuses the filling with warm, comforting spice.
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle layer of earthy flavor.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice: Brightens the filling and helps prevent apple browning.
- 1 egg yolk: Used to create a glossy, beautiful crust finish.
- 1 tbsp milk: Mixed with the egg yolk for easy brushing.
- Additional sugar for sprinkling: Creates a delightful crunchy and sparkling topping.
How to Make Classic Spiced Baked Apple Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dry Ingredients
Preheating your oven to a sizzling 425°F (220°C) is the first exciting step toward a golden pie crust. While it heats, combine the flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl—these dry ingredients set the stage to create the perfect pie dough texture.
Step 2: Cut in the Butter
This is where the magic of flakiness begins. Add in your chilled, diced butter and work it into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers. Aim for coarse crumbs—that tells you the butter is perfectly incorporated, promising a crust that’s both tender and flaky.
Step 3: Bring the Dough Together
Add ice water one tablespoon at a time, stirring gently with a fork. The goal is a dough that just holds together when pressed. Be careful not to overwork it as that will make the crust tough. Then, divide your dough into two disks, wrap them, and chill for at least an hour to firm up the butter once more.
Step 4: Mix the Apple Filling
While your dough chills, toss sliced Granny Smith apples with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. This mixture will ensure your filling is fragrant, perfectly spiced, and thickened just right to avoid a soggy crust after baking.
Step 5: Roll Out and Assemble
Flour your surface lightly and roll out one dough disk into a 12-inch circle. Gently transfer it to a 9-inch pie plate, letting any extra dough hang over the sides. Pour the luscious apple filling into the crust, then roll out the second disk and layer it over the top. Trim excess dough, fold and press edges to seal, then flute for a pretty finish.
Step 6: Egg Wash and Venting
This step is all about gorgeous presentation. Whisk together egg yolk and milk, then brush it evenly over the top crust, giving it that lovely golden shine. Don’t forget to cut small slits in the crust so steam can escape, preventing any sogginess and helping the top brown evenly.
Step 7: Sugar Sprinkling and Baking
Sprinkle some sugar over the top to add a sparkling crunch that’s pure joy with every bite. Bake the pie at 425°F for 15 minutes before lowering the heat to 350°F (175°C) and continuing to bake for 35 to 45 minutes until apples are tender and the crust gleams a beautiful golden brown.
Step 8: Cooling
Patience is key! Let the pie cool on a wire rack to set the filling perfectly. This step means every slice holds together with the perfect balance of juicy apples and flaky crust.
How to Serve Classic Spiced Baked Apple Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate your slice to dessert heaven. A light dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar on top adds an elegant, inviting touch that makes this pie feel a little extra special.
Side Dishes
Serve your pie alongside a hot cup of spiced tea or rich coffee to complement the warm cinnamon and nutmeg flavors. For brunch, pair it with a simple green salad to contrast the sweetness and keep things balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Think about individual mini apple pies for easy sharing or use the filling inside puff pastry for an impressive twist. You could even create a spiced apple crumble topping instead of a traditional crust for an exciting variation that still honors the heart of the Classic Spiced Baked Apple Pie Recipe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your pie loosely with foil or plastic wrap. It will keep beautifully at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for about five days—perfect for enjoying a slice (or two) whenever the craving hits.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to prevent freezer burn. It will maintain its flavor and texture for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.
Reheating
Warm slices gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes to restore that fresh-baked aroma and preserve the crust’s crispiness. Avoid microwaving when possible, as it can make the crust soggy.
FAQs
Can I use apples other than Granny Smith?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples hold their shape and provide a nice tartness, a mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji can add more complex flavor and texture.
Is it necessary to chill the dough?
Yes, chilling the dough solidifies the butter and relaxes the gluten, which helps you create a flaky, tender crust and makes rolling the dough much easier.
How do I prevent the bottom crust from getting soggy?
Using a bit of flour in the apple filling and baking at the higher temperature initially helps set the crust. Also, letting the pie cool completely before slicing ensures the juices thicken properly.
Can I make this pie vegan?
Definitely! Swap the butter for a vegan butter alternative and replace the egg wash with a plant-based milk wash for a lovely golden crust. Just be mindful that texture may vary slightly.
How long will the pie last after baking?
This Classic Spiced Baked Apple Pie Recipe is best enjoyed within five days when stored in the fridge. The crust and filling flavors mature wonderfully but keep an eye out for signs of drying out.
Final Thoughts
Making this Classic Spiced Baked Apple Pie Recipe is like inviting a warm hug into your kitchen. With every step, you’re crafting a timeless dessert that brings people together and turns simple ingredients into pure joy. Trust me, once you make this pie, it will become your go-to recipe for celebrations or whenever you want to enjoy a little slice of comfort. So roll up your sleeves, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to something truly special.
Print
Classic Spiced Baked Apple Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 1h 0m
- Cook Time: 1h 0m
- Total Time: 2h 0m
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Classic Spiced Baked Apple Pie features a flaky, buttery crust filled with tender, cinnamon- and nutmeg-spiced Granny Smith apples. This timeless dessert combines a crisp, golden top with a warm, fragrant apple filling, perfect for gatherings or a comforting treat.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 6 to 8 tbsp ice water
Filling
- 6 to 8 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Topping
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tbsp milk
- Additional sugar for sprinkling
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the pie.
- Mix dry crust ingredients: In a large bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups flour, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tbsp granulated sugar to form the base of your crust.
- Add butter: Incorporate the chilled, diced butter using a pastry cutter or fingertips until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
- Add ice water: Slowly add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing with a fork until the dough begins to come together.
- Chill dough: Divide dough into two equal disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Prepare filling: In another large bowl, combine sliced apples with 3/4 cup sugar, 2 tbsp flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice, tossing well to coat all slices evenly.
- Roll out bottom crust: Roll one dough disk on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle, then fit it into a 9-inch pie plate with some overhang.
- Fill pie: Pour the apple mixture into the dough-lined pie plate, spreading evenly.
- Add top crust: Roll out second dough disk and place over filling. Trim excess to 1-inch overhang, then tuck and flute edges to seal.
- Prepare glaze: Beat egg yolk with milk and brush it over the top crust for a glossy finish. Cut slits in the crust to vent steam.
- Add sugar topping: Sprinkle additional sugar over the top crust for a sweet, sparkling effect.
- Bake: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes, then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for another 35 to 45 minutes until crust is golden and apples are soft.
- Cool: Transfer the baked pie to a wire rack and let it cool before serving to ensure the filling sets properly.
Notes
- Using chilled butter and ice water helps achieve a flaky pie crust texture.
- Granny Smith apples provide the perfect balance of tartness and firmness for baking.
- Make sure to chill the dough sufficiently to prevent shrinking during baking.
- Create vent slits on the top crust to avoid sogginess from trapped steam.
- Let the pie cool completely for at least 2 hours before slicing to allow filling to thicken.
