This famous apple pie recipe is a cherished family tradition passed down through generations. It has won multiple first-place awards in baking competitions and remains a favorite at family gatherings and holidays. With its perfectly balanced filling and flaky crust, this pie is sure to be a hit at your table.
Ingredients
For the Filling:
- 8 small Granny Smith apples (or another tart variety), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- ½ cup white sugar
- ½ cup packed brown sugar
- ¼ cup water
- For the Pie Crust:
- 1 (9-inch) double-crust pie pastry (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Apples:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Set them aside.
- Make the Caramel Filling:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Stir in the flour to form a paste and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the white sugar, brown sugar, and water, stirring well until the sugar dissolves completely.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
- Prepare the Crust:
Place one pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan, pressing it gently along the bottom and sides.
Roll out the second crust and cut it into 8 strips (about 1 inch wide each) for a lattice topping.
- Assemble the Pie:
Arrange the apple slices in the bottom crust, slightly mounding them in the center.
Lay four pastry strips vertically over the apples.
Weave the remaining four strips horizontally, lifting alternating vertical strips to create a lattice pattern.
Trim any excess dough and pinch the edges to seal the crust.
- Add the Caramel Sauce:
Slowly pour the butter-sugar mixture over the lattice crust, allowing it to seep through the apples.
Brush some of the mixture over the lattice to enhance its color and flavor during baking.
- Bake:
Place the pie in the oven and bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C).
Reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 35–45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
- Cool and Serve:
Allow the pie to cool before slicing to let the filling set.
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy it on its own!
Tips for the Best Apple Pie:
- Granny Smith apples are ideal for this recipe because they hold their shape and balance the sweetness of the sugar.
- Brushing the crust with an egg wash (1 beaten egg + 1 tbsp water) before baking will give it a shiny, golden finish.
- You can freeze the baked pie for up to 3 months—just reheat it in the oven before serving.
Enjoy this family-favorite pie, and let the sweet aroma fill your kitchen🥧🍏
If you love Sweet Potato Pie check this: 7 Secrets to a Flawless Sweet Potato Pie Every Time
