Apple pie is perhaps the most iconic and adored dessert in the United States and globally. With its buttery, flaky crust and spiced, sweet apple filling, this timeless dessert has been savored for centuries. Served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or served plain, apple pie is the epitome of home-baked comfort.

In this article, we’ll explore the history of apple pie, its essential ingredients, and a step-by-step guide to baking the perfect apple pie at home.

The History of Apple Pie

Despite apple pie being commonly linked to American culture, its roots stem from medieval England. Apple pie recipes were first found in the 14th century and contained spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg, which were foreign trade commodities at that time. European colonizers carried these recipes across to America, where apple pie was a popular staple because of the abundance of apples.

By the 19th century, apple pie had become deeply embedded in American tradition. The phrase “as American as apple pie” emerged during the 20th century, solidifying the dessert’s cultural significance.

Why Apple Pie is So Popular

✔ Classic and Timeless – A dessert enjoyed for generations.
✔ Simple Yet Elegant – Made with basic ingredients but full of flavor.
✔ Versatile – Pairs well with ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel.
✔ Great for Any Occasion – Perfect for holidays, parties, or daily treats.

Ingredients for a Classic Apple Pie

For the Pie Crust:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes

1 teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon granulated sugar

6–8 tablespoons ice water

For the Apple Filling:

6–7 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or combination), peeled and sliced

¾ cup granulated sugar

¼ cup brown sugar

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon cinnamon

¼ teaspoon nutmeg

¼ teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces

For the Egg Wash:

1 egg yolk

1 tablespoon milk

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Apple Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Dough

In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.

Add cold butter and blend with a pastry cutter or by hand until mixture is like coarse crumbs.

Gradually add ice water, stirring until dough holds together.

Split in half, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a big bowl, toss sliced apples with lemon juice.

Stir in sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract.

Beat well and leave to sit for 15–20 minutes to let juices release.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

On a flour-dusted surface, roll out one dough half into a 12-inch circle.

Carefully place it into a 9-inch pie plate, pressing it into the bottom.

Trim excess dough and reserve.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Fill the pie crust with apple filling, spreading evenly.

Dot with small pieces of butter to add flavor.

Roll out the second dough disc and cover over the filling.

Seal and crimp edges, cutting a few small slits in the top for steam to escape.

Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash and Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).

Combine egg yolk and milk; brush over the top crust for a golden glaze.

Bake for 50–60 minutes, covering the edges with foil if they get too brown.

Cool for at least 2 hours before cutting.

Tips for the Best Apple Pie

✔ Use a Blend of Apples – Mixing tart and sweet apples will add more flavor.
✔ Chill the Dough – Avoids a hard crust and maintains it flaky.
✔ Pre-Cook the Filling (Optional) – Prevents a soggy bottom crust.
✔ Let the Pie Cool – Enables the filling to set correctly.
✔ Serve with Ice Cream – A warm slice served with vanilla ice cream is irresistible.

Variations of Apple Pie

✔ Classic Double-Crust Apple Pie – The classic two-layer crust version.
✔ Dutch Apple Pie – Has a streusel crumb topping rather than a top crust.
✔ Caramel Apple Pie – Add caramel drizzled over the apples for added sweetness.
✔ Mini Apple Pies – Ideal for serving in individual portions at parties.
✔ Vegan Apple Pie – Substitute coconut oil for butter and flaxseed egg wash.

What to Serve with Apple Pie

Apple pie is fine by itself, but serving it with other delights makes the experience even better:

Vanilla Ice Cream – The traditional accompaniment for a warm slice.

Whipped Cream – Airy and light, adding an added level of luxury.

Caramel Sauce – A drizzle of warm caramel that brings out the apple flavors.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese – An old New England favorite that offsets the sweetness.