Introduction
Few desserts can match the comforting, cozy aroma of a freshly baked apple pie. This Rustic Apple Pie combines a flaky, buttery crust with tender, cinnamon-sweet apples to create a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or a quiet family dinner, this pie is guaranteed to steal the show.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- 6–8 tbsp ice water
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp preferred)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tbsp butter (cut into small pieces)
How to Make Rustic Apple Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
Divide the dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
Peel, core, and slice the apples. Place them in a bowl with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Toss until all slices are evenly coated.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one dough disc into a circle and place it in a 9-inch pie dish. Add the apple mixture, mounding slightly in the center, and dot with small pieces of butter.
Roll out the second dough disc and place it over the filling. Trim any excess and crimp the edges. Cut small slits in the top to allow steam to escape. Brush the crust with egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tbsp milk) and sprinkle with sugar.
Step 4: Bake
Bake for 45–50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If the crust browns too quickly, cover the edges with foil halfway through.
Serving Suggestions
This pie is best served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. For extra flair, add a sprinkle of powdered sugar just before serving.
Tips for a Perfect Pie
- Use cold butter for a flakier crust.
- Let the pie cool before slicing to allow the filling to set.
- Chill the assembled pie for 15 minutes before baking for an extra-crisp crust.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic fall flavor
- Perfectly sweet and tart apple filling
- Golden flaky crust from scratch
- Easy to customize with nuts, raisins, or different spices
Nutrition Facts (Per Slice)
- Calories: 320
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Protein: 3g
Conclusion
This Rustic Apple Pie is a timeless dessert that brings warmth and nostalgia to any table. With a buttery crust and spiced apple filling, it’s a treat your guests will remember. Bake it once, and it might just become your go-to pie recipe!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought crust?
Yes! While homemade crust offers the best flavor and texture, store-bought works well for a quicker option.
How do I store leftover apple pie?
Wrap it tightly and keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for 4–5 days. Reheat slices in the oven for best texture.
Can I freeze this pie?
Absolutely. Freeze unbaked or baked apple pie for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen or thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
