There’s just something magical about the smell of a fresh apple pie baking in the oven, isn’t there? It’s like a warm hug that fills your home with sweet, comforting aromas! If you’ve never tried baking one before, don’t worry—this simple recipe is perfect for beginners and will have you feeling like a pro in no time. Trust me, with just a few easy steps, you’ll create a delicious pie that’s sure to impress friends and family. Plus, it’s one of those classic recipes with apples that never goes out of style! So, let’s dive in and get you on the path to pie perfection!
Ingredients List
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to pie-making success! Here’s what you’ll need for this delightful apple pie:
- 6 cups sliced apples – I recommend using a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a balanced flavor that’ll make your taste buds dance!
- 3/4 cup sugar – This will sweeten the apples just right. You can adjust it a bit depending on how sweet your apples are.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – This helps thicken the filling, so it’s not too runny when you slice into that beautiful pie.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon – This adds that warm, cozy flavor we all love in apple pie. You can even sprinkle a little extra on top if you’re feeling fancy!
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – This is a secret weapon! It brightens up the flavors and helps keep those apples from browning.
- 1 tablespoon butter – A little dab of butter on top of the apples adds richness and enhances the flavor.
- 2 pie crusts – You can use store-bought or homemade; either way, you’ll want a bottom and a top crust to keep all that deliciousness inside!
That’s it! Simple ingredients for a classic dessert that will warm your heart and home. Let’s get ready to bake!
How to Prepare Instructions
Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making that delicious apple pie! Don’t worry; I’ll walk you through each step so you can nail it like a pro!
Preheat the Oven
First things first, you want to preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This is super important because starting with a hot oven ensures that your pie crust bakes evenly and gets that beautiful golden brown color. So, go ahead and turn it on now while we prepare the apple filling!
Prepare the Apple Mixture
Grab a large bowl, and let’s mix those apples! Toss in the sliced apples, followed by the sugar, flour, cinnamon, and lemon juice. The sugar will sweeten up the apples, while the flour thickens the filling, so it’s nice and gooey when you slice into the pie. The cinnamon adds that warm, comforting flavor we all adore, and the lemon juice—oh, don’t skip it!—it brightens everything up and keeps the apples looking fresh. Give it a good mix until everything is well-coated.
Assemble the Pie
Now, let’s get that pie together! Take one of your pie crusts and gently lay it into your pie dish. It should fit snugly—don’t worry if it’s a little wrinkled; it’ll bake beautifully! Next, pour in that scrumptious apple mixture, spreading it out evenly. Now, take tiny pieces of butter and dot them on top of the apples. This little touch adds richness to each bite! Finally, place the second pie crust on top and crimp the edges together to seal it all in. You want to make sure those precious apples stay cozy!
Add Steam Vents
Before we pop it in the oven, let’s cut some small slits in the top crust. This is essential because it allows steam to escape while baking, preventing your pie from becoming a soggy mess. Plus, it gives that classic pie look—how cute!
Bake the Pie
It’s time to bake! Slide your pie into the preheated oven and let it cook for about 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end; you’ll know it’s done when the crust is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling up through those steam vents. If the edges start to brown too quickly, don’t hesitate to cover them with a bit of foil!
Cool and Serve
Once it’s out of the oven, let the pie cool for about 15-20 minutes. This cooling time is crucial because it helps the filling set up nicely, making it easier to slice. When you’re ready to serve, I highly recommend pairing it with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Trust me; it’s the cherry on top of this delightful dessert!
Tips for Success
Here are a few handy tips to ensure your apple pie turns out perfectly every time! First, make sure to slice your apples evenly so they cook at the same rate—no one wants mushy bits in their pie! If you find your apples are too juicy, don’t hesitate to sprinkle in a bit more flour to help absorb that moisture.
Also, remember to let the pie cool after baking. I know it’s tempting to dig in right away, but cooling helps the filling set, making for cleaner slices. And don’t forget to check on your pie as it bakes! If the edges start to brown too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning. With these simple tips, you’ll be on your way to pie perfection!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Please note that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands used in this recipe. The typical values for one slice of apple pie are approximately 250 calories, 10g of fat, 15g of sugar, 2g of protein, and 38g of carbohydrates. For the most accurate information, it’s best to calculate based on your exact ingredients. Enjoy your pie with a sprinkle of awareness!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making the perfect apple pie? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries folks often have when it comes to recipes with apples:
What types of apples are best?
I love using a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor! Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are my go-to choices. The tartness of Granny Smith balances beautifully with the sweetness of Honeycrisp. You can also try Fuji or Braeburn for a delicious twist!
Can I use store-bought pie crusts?
Absolutely! Store-bought pie crusts are a fantastic time-saver and can still yield a delicious pie. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for the best results. I promise, no one will judge you for taking a shortcut!
How can I make the pie healthier?
If you want to lighten things up a bit, try using less sugar or substituting with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You can also opt for whole wheat flour in the crust for added fiber. Every little change helps!
How do I store leftovers?
To store your leftover pie, simply cover it loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before diving back in!
What can I serve with apple pie?
Oh, the possibilities are endless! A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream are classics, but you could also serve it with caramel sauce for a decadent touch. Some folks even enjoy it with a slice of sharp cheddar cheese for a fun flavor contrast!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Prep: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious pie in no time!
- Beginner-Friendly: Even if you’ve never baked before, this recipe is super straightforward and easy to follow.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet and tart apples, warm cinnamon, and buttery crust creates an irresistible treat.
- Versatile: Perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or just a cozy night in with a slice and a scoop of ice cream.
- Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different types of apples or add in your favorite spices to make it your own!
Once you try this recipe, you’ll see why apple pie is a timeless favorite and a must-have in any baker’s repertoire!
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Recipes with Apples: 5 Steps to Perfect Pie Bliss
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple and delicious apple pie recipe perfect for beginners.
Ingredients
- 6 cups sliced apples
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 pie crusts
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, mix sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
- Place one pie crust in a pie dish and fill it with the apple mixture.
- Add small pieces of butter on top of the apple mixture.
- Cover with the second pie crust and seal the edges.
- Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
- Let it cool for a bit before serving.
Notes
- Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for better flavor.
- Don’t skip the lemon juice; it helps balance the sweetness.
- Cover edges with foil if they brown too quickly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: recipes with apples
