Joy of Cooking Apple Pie Recipe
The Joy of Cooking Apple Pie Recipe is a simple dish that mixes the classic tastes of a buttery crust and spiced apples. This recipe connects us to the past while fitting into our busy lives today.
Apple pie is a staple of American culture, often enjoyed during holidays and special occasions. For me, this pie reminds me of baking with my mom. We didn’t worry about perfect slices or fancy crusts – we just made something sweet and shared it with others.
This recipe is about creating something good and sharing it with those you care about.
Life of Pie
If you have never made pie before, this Joy of Cooking Apple Pie Recipe is the perfect place to start.
This is more than just dessert; it is a warm hug on a plate, where you’ll see and love how the apples soften and sweeten as the crust turns golden and crisp.
Apple pie has a long history. It originated in England and received assistance from France and the Netherlands. People brought it to America in the 1600s, and it became a favorite here.
I was inspired to make this pie at home because I wanted something that felt familiar and tasted like comfort. The smell of cinnamon and apples baking reminds me of quiet afternoons and happy times.
Why This Joy of Cooking Apple Pie Is Worth Making
Some pies require fancy steps, but this one is simple, working for both beginners and experienced cooks alike.
My homemade version tastes better because I use fresh apples, real butter, and just the right amount of spice.
When it is ready, you will taste sweet apples with a hint of lemon, cinnamon, and nutmeg. The crust is flaky, and the filling is rich and sweet. It is neither too tart nor too sweet.
I love the aroma of the pie while it’s baking. It fills the kitchen with warmth.
Joy of Cooking Apple Pie Recipe Ingredients
This 9-inch pie serves eight people.
Apples (3 pounds): Use firm apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. If using only Granny Smiths, as they hold their shape well when baked, add two tablespoons of sugar. Soft apples, such as Red Delicious, are not suitable because they tend to become mushy.
Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons): Lemon juice helps prevent the apples from browning and adds a fresh flavor.
Sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the filling and helps create a caramel-like texture. Use brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
All-purpose Flour (½ cup): It thickens the juices. You can use 2 tablespoons of cornstarch or 3 tablespoons of tapioca starch as an alternative; however, the texture may differ slightly, but the pie will still taste great. Ensure well-mixed to avoid lumps.
Ground Cinnamon (1½ teaspoons): Adds warmth.
Nutmeg (¼ teaspoon): Adds depth. You can skip it or use a pinch of allspice or cardamom as an alternative.
Optional Spices: Allspice, mace, cardamom, or cloves. Use ¼ to ⅓ teaspoon for most, just a pinch for cloves. Or you can try apple pie spice mix instead of individual spices.
Butter (2 tablespoons): Cut into small pieces and sprinkle on top.
Pastry Dough (2 rounds): Use a homemade butter crust or a store-bought one. It can be frozen and thawed. If you choose a store-bought crust, opt for a buttery one for the best results.
Egg (1): For the egg wash to coat the crust evenly and make it as shiny as possible. You can brush with milk or cream instead.
Granulated sugar (1 tablespoon): Optional topping for crunch.
Simple Tools for a Perfect Pie
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Pastry mat or floured surface
- 9-inch pie pan (ceramic or metal)
- Pizza cutter (for lattice top)
- Pastry brush
- Knife and cutting board.
How I Make This Apple Pie at Home
Step 1: Prep the Apples
Peel, core, and slice 3 pounds of apples into thin slices (¼ to ⅛ inch thick).
Place them in a large bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and mix gently.
Step 2: Make the Filling
Add 1 cup sugar, ½ cup flour, 1½ teaspoons cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and any optional spices.
Mix until the apples are coated and the mixture looks glossy.
Step 3: Roll the Bottom Crust
Flour your surface and roll one round of pastry dough to ⅛ inch thick. Transfer it to a 9-inch pie pan.
Let the extra dough hang over the edge.
Step 4: Add the Filling
Layer the apple mixture into the crust. Press down gently to avoid gaps.
Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of butter pieces on top.
Step 5: Add the Top Crust
Roll out the second pastry round. Make a lattice top or use a full sheet with vent holes.
Trim and tuck the edges. Pinch to seal.
Step 6: Bake the Pie
Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle sugar.
Bake at 425°F for 20 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 375°F and continue baking for an additional 50 minutes.
Cover the edges with foil if they are browning too fast. Cool for 4 hours before serving.
Secrets to a Perfect Pie Every Time
- Apple slices are cut evenly, so they bake at the same rate.
- Chill your dough if it gets sticky.
- Avoid overfilling the pie to prevent leaks.
- Use a metal pan to reach a golden, crisp bottom crust.
- Do not rush the cooling process, as it helps the filling set.
- Wait till the filling becomes thick and glossy as it bakes.
- Apples shrink while baking, so do not worry if the pie looks full at first.
How to Prep This Pie Ahead of Time
Instead of making a whole pie, make the filling and crust separately. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 2 days.
When you’re ready to use the dough, let it thaw on the counter for 20 minutes before rolling it out.
You can also freeze the assembled pie before baking. Wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
When ready, bake straight from frozen, just add 15 minutes to the baking time.
If leftovers, cover and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. Before reheating, check if the pie smells sour or has mold; it is unsafe to eat if it does.
Avoiding microwaving makes the crust soggy.
Delicious Pairings for Your Apple Pie
This pie goes great with vanilla ice cream. The cold creaminess balances the warm apples.
You can also serve it with whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. A slice with sharp cheddar cheese is a classic combo in some regions.
For drinks, try hot coffee, apple cider, or milk. These pairings make each bite even better.
Everything You’re Wondering About This Pie
Common Questions About This Apple Pie
1. How do I know when the pie is done?
The crust should be golden brown, and the filling should bubble through the vents.
2. Why does my crust shrink?
It might be overworked or pressed too hard into the pan. Manage gently and chill before baking.
3. Can I use a glass pie pan?
Yes, but metal pans give a crisper bottom. Glass pans work fine, too.
4. Can I make mini pies with this recipe?
Yes. Divide the dough and fill it into smaller pans. Adjust baking time to 30–40 minutes.
If You Love Apple Pie, Try These Next
If you liked making and eating the Apple Pie Recipe, you might also enjoy these cozy and sweet treats.
- Ruth’s Chris Carrot Cake is rich, spiced, and topped with creamy frosting.
- The Whole Foods Chip Cookie features crispy edges, a gooey center, and a deep, buttery flavor.
- First Watch’s Pumpkin Pancake offers fluffy, spiced pancakes that evoke the essence of fall with every bite.
- Mary Berry Cheese Scones are savory, soft, and perfect with a warm drink.
These desserts are perfect for anyone who loves sweet treats and appreciates the homemade comfort of warm flavors, such as apple pie.
Joy of Cooking Apple Pie Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel, core, and slice 3 pounds of apples into thin slices (¼ to ⅛ inch thick).
- Place them in a large bowl. Add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and mix gently.
- Add 1 cup sugar, ½ cup flour, 1½ teaspoons cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon nutmeg, and any optional spices.
- Mix until the apples are coated and the mixture looks glossy.
- Flour your surface and roll one round of pastry dough to ⅛ inch thick. Transfer it to a 9-inch pie pan.
- Let the extra dough hang over the edge.
- Layer the apple mixture into the crust. Press down gently to avoid gaps.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of butter pieces on top.
- Roll out the second pastry round. Make a lattice top or use a full sheet with vent holes.
- Trim and tuck the edges. Pinch to seal.
- Brush the top with beaten egg and sprinkle sugar.
- Bake at 425°F for 20 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 375°F and continue baking for an additional 50 minutes.
- Cover the edges with foil if they are browning too fast. Cool for 4 hours before serving.
This pie is a joy to make and enjoy. Try it today and enjoy every bite of this classic treat. Our Joy of Cooking Apple Pie Recipe is waiting for you to make it your own.
