🇺🇸 USA · Dessert
Classic American Apple Pie
By eatmundo · July 3, 2026
🇺🇸 USA quintessential American dessert, this apple pie features a flaky, buttery crust generously filled with tender, spiced apples. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a comforting treat that evokes warmth and tradition.
Ingredients
check them off as you prepareHow to Make It
- 1
Prepare the pie crust: In a large bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour and 1 tsp salt. Cut in 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, diced, until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add 1/2 cup ice water, mixing until dough just comes together. Divide in half, flatten into discs, wrap, and chill for 30 minutes.
- 2
Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine 6-7 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp). Add 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 1 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, and 1 tbsp lemon juice. Toss to coat evenly.
- 3
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out one dough disc on a lightly floured surface to a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer to a 9-inch pie plate. Trim edges, leaving a 1/2-inch overhang.
- 4
Pour the apple filling into the pie crust. Roll out the second dough disc for the top crust or lattice. Place over the filling. Trim and crimp edges to seal. Cut several slits in the top crust for steam to escape.
- 5
Bake for 15 minutes at 400°F (200°C), then reduce heat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for another 45-55 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and apples are tender. If crust browns too quickly, cover edges with foil.
- 6
Cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing and serving. Enjoy plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which types of apples are best for Classic American Apple Pie, and why?+
A mix of tart (like Granny Smith) and sweet-tart (like Honeycrisp or Fuji) apples is ideal. This combination provides a complex flavor profile and ensures some apples hold their shape while others soften beautifully.
What is the ideal oven temperature and baking time for a Classic American Apple Pie to ensure a golden crust and tender filling?+
Bake at 425°F (220°C) for the first 15-20 minutes, then reduce to 375°F (190°C) for another 35-45 minutes. This initial high heat helps set the crust, while the lower temperature ensures the apples cook through without burning the top.
What is a common mistake that leads to a soggy bottom crust, and how can I prevent it?+
A common mistake is not pre-baking or adequately chilling the bottom crust. To prevent a soggy bottom, blind bake your bottom crust for 10-15 minutes before adding the filling, or ensure it's very cold before baking and bake on the lowest rack for direct heat.
How can I tell if the apple filling is perfectly cooked and tender, without being mushy?+
The filling is done when you can easily pierce an apple slice through a vent hole with a thin skewer or knife, and the juices are bubbling thickly. Let the pie cool completely to allow the filling to set properly, preventing it from being too runny.
🇺🇸 USMundo Match
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