Name: Classic American Apple Pie
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 discs pie crust (for top and bottom) 4 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced 2 Honeycrisp apples, peeled and sliced 1/3 cup brown sugar 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 teaspoon lemon zest 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg 2 tablespoons cornstarch 2 tablespoons butter, cubed 1 egg 1 tablespoon milk 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for topping)

Few desserts evoke the warmth and comfort of home quite like a Classic American Apple Pie. With its buttery, flaky crust and tender apple filling spiced just right, this pie has earned its place on every holiday table and Sunday dinner spread. The contrast of crisp tart apples and warm cinnamon wrapped in golden, sugared lattice crust is nothing short of nostalgic bliss.

Whether you’re baking it for a potluck, Thanksgiving feast, or just a cozy night in, this recipe never fails to impress. The secret lies in balancing tart and sweet apples with a touch of lemon and rich brown sugar for a depth of flavor that feels familiar yet bold. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top? Non-negotiable.

What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

The key to a perfect apple pie is using a mix of apple varieties to create a balance of flavor and texture. I love combining tart Granny Smith apples with a sweeter variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji. The tartness holds its shape while the sweet apples soften and bring juiciness. Avoid overly soft apples like Red Delicious, which turn mushy during baking.

Ingredients for the Classic American Apple Pie

Pie Crust (Double Crust) – A homemade buttery crust gives this pie its flaky signature. You can use store-bought, but from-scratch dough really elevates the texture and flavor.

Granny Smith Apples – These firm, tart apples are perfect for holding shape and cutting through the sweetness of the filling.

Honeycrisp Apples – For sweetness and juiciness, this variety brings a delightful contrast to the tart apples.

Brown Sugar – Adds depth and a touch of molasses flavor to the filling.

Granulated Sugar – Balances the tart apples and gives the filling a syrupy consistency.

Cinnamon and Nutmeg – Classic spices that warm up the flavor profile of the pie.

Lemon Juice and Zest – Brightens the flavor and prevents the apples from browning.

Cornstarch – Helps thicken the filling so the pie isn’t runny.

Butter – Small cubes of butter dotted into the filling add richness.

Egg Wash – A mix of egg and milk brushed on the crust before baking gives it that golden, glossy finish.

Coarse Sugar (optional) – Sprinkled on top for sparkle and a slight crunch.

How To Make the Classic American Apple Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Make your pie dough in advance. Combine flour, salt, butter, and ice water until it forms a rough dough. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least one hour.

Step 2: Preheat and Roll

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out one disc of the chilled dough and press it into your pie dish, letting the excess hang over the edges. Keep the second disc chilled for the top crust.

Step 3: Make the Apple Filling

Peel and slice the apples about 1/4 inch thick. In a large bowl, toss them with brown sugar, granulated sugar, lemon juice, zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Let them sit while you prepare the lattice.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Pour the apple mixture into the prepared crust and dot with cubes of butter. Roll out the second dough disc and slice it into strips for a lattice or place it whole with slits. Crimp or flute the edges to seal.

Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake

Brush the top crust with egg wash and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired. Bake for 20 minutes at 400°F, then reduce heat to 350°F and bake an additional 35–40 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the pie cool for at least 3 hours before slicing. This helps the filling set. Serve with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

How to Serve and Store Classic Apple Pie

A slice of apple pie is best enjoyed slightly warm with a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For extra indulgence, drizzle with salted caramel sauce or pair it with sharp cheddar cheese—the savory bite complements the sweet filling beautifully.

To store, let the pie cool completely and cover it loosely with foil or plastic wrap. It will keep at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave or warm the whole pie in a 325°F oven until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the best way to prevent a soggy bottom crust?

Blind baking isn’t necessary for apple pie, but chilling your crust and sprinkling a bit of flour or breadcrumbs on the bottom before adding the filling can help absorb excess juices.

Can I freeze apple pie?

Yes! Freeze the fully baked pie (once cooled) by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat straight from the freezer at 350°F for 30–40 minutes.

What if I don’t want to make a lattice top?

No problem—just place the second crust on top, cut a few vents, and crimp the edges. It’s still beautiful and just as delicious.

How thick should I slice the apples?

Slice them about 1/4 inch thick. Too thin, and they’ll turn mushy; too thick, and they won’t cook through evenly.

Can I use all one type of apple?

You can, but mixing tart and sweet apples gives a better flavor and texture contrast. If using just one, Granny Smith is the most reliable choice.

Do I need to cook the filling before baking?

Not for this recipe. Letting the apple mixture sit while preparing the crust helps release some juices naturally.

Want More Pie Ideas?

If this Classic American Apple Pie warmed your heart, you might fall in love with these other homemade favorites:

• Try the Old-Fashioned Egg Custard Pie for a silky smooth bite of Southern tradition.
• Bake up the Shamrock Mint Milkshake Pie if you’re feeling whimsical and minty.
• The Amish Applesauce Cake delivers warm spice in every forkful.
• Feeling bold? Check out the Salted Caramel Kentucky Butter Cake for something sticky-sweet.
• And for another fruity classic, the Old Time Oven Peach Cobbler is an absolute comfort dessert.

Want more cozy desserts and everyday baking inspiration? Visit my Pinterest board where I share my daily recipes: Life with Jam on Pinterest

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you mix apple types or go with a classic Granny Smith? Maybe added a twist with maple syrup?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.