Classic Double-Crust Apple Pie
The apple pie you remember from childhood, done right. Buttery flaky crust, spiced apple filling with a hint of lemon.
Instructions
- 1
Whisk flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in butter until pea-sized. Add ice water one tablespoon at a time until dough just holds. Divide, shape into disks, chill 1 hour.
- 2
Toss sliced apples with sugar, flour, spices, and lemon juice.
- 3
Roll one disk into a 12-inch circle, fit into a 9-inch pie plate. Fill with apples, mounding slightly.
- 4
Roll second disk, drape over apples, seal and crimp edges, cut 4 steam vents. Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with sugar.
- 5
Bake at 425 F for 20 minutes, reduce to 375 F, bake 40 more minutes until crust is deep gold and juices bubble.
- 6
Cool at least 3 hours before slicing so the filling sets.
Baker's tips
Chill the butter until it is nearly frozen for the flakiest crust. Never skip the cooling step, hot pie filling is soup.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best apples for Classic Double-Crust Apple Pie?+
For classic double-crust apple pie, use a firm baking apple that holds its shape once cooked, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, Granny Smith, Jonagold, or a mix of two varieties gives the best flavor balance between sweet and tart.
Can I make Classic Double-Crust Apple Pie ahead of time?+
Yes. Most baked apple desserts keep well for 2 days at room temperature covered loosely, or up to 5 days refrigerated. Reheat in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes to restore the crisp texture.
Can I freeze Classic Double-Crust Apple Pie?+
Most apple bakes freeze well for up to 3 months. Cool completely, wrap tightly in foil and freezer-safe bags, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Do I need to peel the apples?+
Peeling gives a smoother texture and is traditional for pies and butters. For rustic crisps, crumbles, and sauces the skin adds fiber, color, and flavor, leave it on if you prefer.
Where can I pick my own apples for this recipe?+
Fresh-picked apples make a real difference in baking. Use our directory to find a U-Pick orchard near you and check our ripening calendar to see which varieties are ready this week.
Explore next
Find U-Pick apples near you →
Fresh-picked apples make baking better. See orchards close to home.
Best baking apple varieties →
Compare Honeycrisp, Braeburn, Granny Smith, and more.
When apples are ready to pick →
Month-by-month ripening across every US region.
More apple recipes →
Browse pies, crisps, cider, butter, breads, and more.
More apple recipes
Fresh Pressed Apple Juice
Experience the pure, crisp taste of autumn with homemade fresh pressed apple juice. Using apples you picked yourself makes this drink even more special. It's a delightful and refreshing way to enjoy the season's bounty.
Baked Apples Stuffed with Pecans and Cranberries
This baked apple recipe is a perfect way to enjoy the crisp, sweet apples you just picked from the orchard. Filled with crunchy pecans and tart cranberries, these warm, spiced apples are a delightful treat. It's an easy dessert that truly highlights the fresh flavor of U-Pick apples.
Cinnamon Apple Crisp with Oat Crumble
This classic apple crisp is the perfect way to showcase juicy, fresh-picked apples. With a warm cinnamon apple filling and a buttery oat crumble topping, it's a comforting dessert for any occasion. It's easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.