Apple Pie - Fraîche Living

Name: Apple Pie - Fraîche Living
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 8.0
Ingredients: 6 cups thinly sliced apples; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 tablespoon cinnamon; 2 tablespoons flour; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 1/4 cup sugar; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Experience the comforting taste of homemade goodness with this classic Apple Pie recipe. Filled with sweet, spiced apples and wrapped in a flaky, golden crust, it's the perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether enjoyed warm with a scoop of ice cream or served chilled, this pie brings warmth and nostalgia to your table. Ideal for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or cozy nights in!

Created by

Madeline Archer

Last updated on 2025-12-13T18:51:42.225Z

This apple pie recipe is a family tradition passed down through generations. It's not just a dessert; it's a part of our celebration and togetherness.

The Perfect Balance of Flavor

One of the reasons why this Apple Pie stands out is its perfect balance of flavors. The sweet, juicy apples are combined with fragrant spices like cinnamon to create a comforting aroma that fills your kitchen. The lemon juice adds a subtle brightness, enhancing the natural sweetness of the apples. This harmonious blend makes each bite of the pie an exceptional experience, overflowing with warmth and nostalgia.

Additionally, the pie filling is thickened with flour, which helps to create a cohesive texture that allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Each slice offers the right amount of sweetness without being overwhelming, making it an ideal dessert for any occasion.

A Flaky, Buttery Crust

The allure of any great pie lies in its crust, and this recipe does not disappoint. Our pie crust is made with unsalted butter, lending a rich flavor and a delicate, flaky texture that’s simply irresistible. When baked, the crust turns golden brown, providing a perfect contrast to the soft, spiced apple filling.

Resting the dough in the refrigerator is crucial—it allows the gluten to relax, which leads to a more tender crust. Plus, the use of ice water keeps the butter cold, ensuring that the layers remain distinct and create a flaky finish. This attention to detail in the crust preparation makes a significant impact on the overall quality of the pie.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this classic Apple Pie is delightful on its own, there are numerous ways to elevate your dessert experience. Consider serving it warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The melting ice cream contrasts with the warm pie, creating a delightful combination of temperatures and flavors.

For a twist, you can experiment with different apple varieties in the filling. Combining tart apples like Granny Smith with sweet varieties such as Honeycrisp can add an exciting depth of flavor. You could also try adding a sprinkle of nutmeg or a tablespoon of caramel sauce into the filling for an extra touch of indulgence.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before starting the preparation.

For the Pie Filling

6 cups thinly sliced apples
3/4 cup sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons flour

For the Pie Crust

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
6 to 8 tablespoons ice water

Ensure to adjust the spices according to your taste preference.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully to ensure the perfect apple pie.

Prepare the Pie Crust

In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the ice water, a tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Prepare the Filling

In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and flour. Toss until apples are evenly coated.

Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one dough disc and fit it into a pie pan. Fill with the apple mixture. Roll out the second dough and place it over the filling. Seal the edges and cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 35-45 minutes, or until the apples are soft and the crust is golden brown.

Cool and Serve

Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. Serve with optional vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Enjoy your homemade apple pie with loved ones!

Tips for Perfecting Your Pie

When preparing the apple filling, it's important to choose apples that are firm and hold their shape well during baking. Varieties like Fuji, Braeburn, and McIntosh work wonderfully in pies. Be sure to slice them evenly to ensure consistent cooking throughout the pie.

Letting the pie cool before slicing it is another critical step. This allows the filling to set, making for cleaner, more attractive slices. A minimum of two hours is recommended, but if you can wait until it’s fully cooled, the presentation will be well worth it.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftover pie, storing it properly can extend its shelf life. Keep the pie covered at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate it for up to five days. Make sure to cover it well to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.

To reheat the pie, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the pie on a baking sheet. Heat it for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. This will revive the crust’s flakiness and make it just as delicious as when it was freshly baked.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought crust?

Yes, store-bought crust can save time and still result in a delicious pie.

→ What apples are best for pie?

A mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples works great for flavor and texture.