This homemade apple pie features a buttery flaky crust and a warm cinnamon apple filling that tastes like classic fall comfort. The apples stay tender but not mushy, the filling sets perfectly, and the crust bakes golden and crisp. It is a dependable recipe ideal for holidays, family gatherings, or weekend baking.

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust

  • 2 and 1/2 cups all purpose flour
  • 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water

For the Cinnamon Apple Filling

  • 6 cups peeled sliced apples (Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji or a mix)
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter

For Assembly

  • 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon water for egg wash
  • 1 tablespoon sugar for sprinkling

Instructions

1. Prepare the crust

  1. Mix flour, salt and sugar in a bowl.
  2. Add cold butter and cut it into the flour using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until coarse crumbs form.
  3. Add ice water a little at a time until the dough comes together.
  4. Divide dough into two discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for 1 hour.

2. Make the filling

  1. In a large bowl combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice and melted butter.
  2. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.

3. Assemble the pie

  1. Roll out the first dough disc and place it in a 9 inch pie dish.
  2. Add the cinnamon apple filling.
  3. Roll out the second disc and place it on top or create a lattice.
  4. Seal the edges and trim any excess.
  5. Brush the top with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar.

4. Bake

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (205°C).
  2. Bake for 20 minutes.
  3. Reduce heat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 35 to 40 more minutes until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
  4. Cool at least 2 hours before slicing so the filling sets.

Tips for a Perfect Flaky Crust

  • Keep all ingredients very cold to prevent the butter from melting.
  • Do not overwork the dough; visible butter pieces create flakiness.
  • Use a mix of apple varieties for better texture and flavor.
  • If the crust browns too quickly, cover the edges with foil.
  • Let the pie cool completely before cutting for clean slices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did my filling become watery?
The pie may have been cut before cooling. The filling thickens as it cools.

Can I use store bought crust?
Yes, but homemade crust gives the best flaky texture.

Which apples are best?
Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Gala, Fuji or Granny Smith hold their shape and do not turn mushy.

Can I make the pie ahead of time?
Yes. Bake the pie one day before serving and store covered at room temperature.

Yield, Time and Nutrition

  • Yield: 1 pie, 8 slices
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Chill Time: 1 hour
  • Cook Time: 55 to 60 minutes
  • Total Time: about 2 hours 30 minutes

Estimated Nutrition per slice:
260 to 310 calories depending on slice size, 12g fat, 40g carbs, 3g fiber, 3g protein.

Conclusion

This is the ultimate homemade apple pie for anyone who loves a flaky crust and a warm cinnamon apple filling. The balance of sweetness, spice and buttery pastry makes it a timeless favorite perfect for holidays and cozy occasions.