How to Make a Delicious Homemade Apple Pie

Apple pie is a timeless dessert that never fails to impress. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a holiday celebration, or just to enjoy on a cozy evening, there’s something special about the warm, spiced apple filling encased in a tender crust. This apple pie recipe is incredibly easy to make and uses basic ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. The result? A beautifully baked apple pie that’s soft, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.

This recipe has a few key ingredients that elevate its flavor, including vanilla extract for sweetness and a pinch of salt to balance the taste. It’s straightforward, meaning even a beginner can successfully whip up a mouthwatering pie with minimal effort. Let’s dive into how you can make this delicious apple pie at home!

Ingredients for Homemade Apple Pie

To create this simple yet delightful apple pie, you will need the following ingredients:

4 large apples (peeled and diced): Apples are the star of the show, providing that sweet, juicy filling. You can use any variety of apple, but Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Golden Delicious work best for pies.
3 eggs: Eggs help bind the batter and give it structure.
3.5 ounces (100 grams) of sugar: Adds sweetness to the batter and apples.

1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Vanilla enhances the flavor and brings out the sweetness of the apples.
3.4 ounces (100 ml) of milk: Adds moisture to the batter, keeping the pie tender and soft.
2.8 ounces (80 grams) of vegetable oil: Provides the necessary fat to keep the batter rich and moist.

8.5 ounces (240 grams) of all-purpose flour: The flour forms the structure of the batter.
2 teaspoons of baking powder: Helps the batter rise and become fluffy.
1 pinch of salt: A small amount of salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors of the pie.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Apple Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, crack the 3 eggs and add 3.5 ounces of sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat this mixture well with a whisk or an electric mixer until it becomes light and frothy. The sugar should fully dissolve, and the eggs should become pale and airy.

Tip: Whisking the eggs and sugar thoroughly at this stage is important. This step helps incorporate air into the mixture, making your pie light and fluffy.

Step 2: Add the Milk and Oil

Gradually pour in 3.4 ounces of milk and 2.8 ounces of vegetable oil into the egg mixture. Stir or whisk until everything is well combined and smooth.

Tip: If you want a richer flavor, you can substitute some of the milk with cream, which will add more decadence to the pie.

Step 3: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together 8.5 ounces of all-purpose flour and 2 teaspoons of baking powder. Sifting helps to eliminate any lumps and evenly distributes the baking powder. Slowly add the sifted dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until the batter is smooth and homogeneous.

Tip: Be sure to stir just enough to combine the ingredients without over-mixing, as over-mixing can result in a dense pie.

Step 4: Prepare the Apples

Peel and dice 4 large apples into bite-sized pieces. Spread the diced apples evenly on the bottom of a greased baking pan.

Tip: For extra flavor, you can toss the apples in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar before placing them in the pan. This adds a delicious spiced note to the filling.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

Once the apples are arranged in the pan, pour the batter over the apples, making sure to spread it evenly with a spatula. Smooth the surface to ensure that the apples are fully covered by the batter.

Tip: To ensure even baking, make sure the batter is spread evenly across the pan, covering all the apples.

Step 6: Bake the Pie

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Place the assembled pie in the oven and bake for 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the apples should be soft and tender.

Tip: If the top of your pie starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning while the inside finishes baking.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once the pie is done, allow it to cool slightly before serving. This helps the pie set and makes it easier to cut into clean slices. Serve it warm on its own, or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Tips for the Perfect Apple Pie

1. Choosing the Right Apples

The variety of apples you choose will affect the taste and texture of your pie. Granny Smith apples are tart and firm, making them ideal for baking because they hold their shape well. Honeycrisp and Golden Delicious apples are sweeter and softer, which can make the filling juicier. You can also mix apple varieties for a balance of sweet and tart flavors.

2. Prepping the Apples

Peeling and dicing the apples ensures that they cook evenly and blend smoothly with the batter. If you prefer a more rustic pie, you can leave the apple skins on for added texture.

3. Flavor Enhancements

While the basic recipe calls for a pinch of salt, feel free to add cinnamon, nutmeg, or lemon zest to the batter or the apples for added flavor. These spices complement the sweetness of the apples and give your pie a warm, spiced aroma.

4. Cooling the Pie

Allow the pie to cool for about 10-15 minutes after baking. This helps the pie set and makes it easier to cut clean slices. Cutting into the pie too soon may result in a messy serving, as the filling may not have fully set.

5. Serving Suggestions

Serve your apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use store-bought pie crust for this recipe?

This recipe doesn’t require a pie crust, as the batter itself forms a soft cake-like texture over the apples. However, if you prefer a traditional apple pie with a crust, you can prepare or purchase a pie crust and layer the apples inside before pouring the batter over the top.

2. What type of apples should I use for apple pie?

The best apples for pie are those that hold their shape when baked. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Golden Delicious are all excellent choices. You can also mix varieties to balance tart and sweet flavors.

3. How do I prevent my apple pie from being soggy?

To avoid a soggy pie, make sure to drain any excess liquid from the apples before adding them to the batter. You can also sprinkle a little flour or cornstarch over the apples to absorb any excess moisture during baking.

4. Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the pie ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just warm it up in the oven at 300°F (150°C) before serving, and it’ll taste just as fresh.

5. Can I freeze apple pie?

Yes, you can freeze this pie either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and store it in the freezer. When ready to bake, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as instructed. If freezing after baking, let the pie cool completely, then wrap and freeze. Reheat in the oven before serving.

6. Can I substitute the milk in the recipe?

Yes, if you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the milk with almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk. These alternatives will still give you a moist and delicious pie.

Conclusion

Making a homemade apple pie is easier than you might think, and the result is a comforting, delicious dessert that will delight your family and friends. With just a few basic ingredients and some simple steps, you can create a soft, tender pie packed with flavorful apples. Whether you serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoy it on its own, this apple pie is sure to become a favorite in your home.

By following the tips and tricks provided in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of apple pie. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a sweet, homemade dessert, give this recipe a try!