
American Apple Pie
A classic dessert made with a crisp, buttery crust and a juicy apple filling flavored with cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s perfect for a cozy family tea time or a festive gathering. With its tender texture and rich aroma, this pie is a favorite treat during the colder months. Serve it warm or completely cooled, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Ingredients
For the crust
- Plain flour350 g
- Unsalted butter200 g
- Sugar1 tbsp
- Salt1/4 tsp.
- Water4-6 tbsp (60–90 ml)
For the filling
- Apples1 kg
- Lemon juice2 tbsp
- Cornstarch1 tbsp
- Sugar150 g
- Ground cinnamon1 tbsp
- Ground nutmeg0,5 tsp.
- Unsalted butter40 g
For brushing
- Eggs1 pcs
Cooking instructions
- 1.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.

- 2.
Cut the cold butter into small cubes and add it to the flour. Rub the butter into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine crumbs.

- 3.
Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, gently mixing with your hands. The amount of water may vary depending on the flour’s moisture level - add just enough for the dough to come together without becoming sticky. Avoid overmixing to keep the crust tender and flaky.

- 4.
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes.

- 5.
Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Choose firm, sweet-tart varieties for the best flavor balance – their slight tang helps offset the sweetness of the crust. Drizzle the sliced apples with lemon juice (about half a lemon) to prevent browning.

- 6.
In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

- 7.
Sprinkle the mixture over the apples and toss well to coat each slice evenly with the spices.
- 8.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- 9.
Take the dough out of the refrigerator and divide it into two portions: about two-thirds for the base and one-third for the top.

- 10.
Roll out the larger portion into a circle large enough to cover the bottom and sides (4–5 cm high) of a 22 cm pie dish. Carefully transfer it into the dish, pressing it gently against the bottom and sides.

- 11.
Spoon the apple filling into the crust and spread it evenly. Dot the top with small pieces of butter.

- 12.
Roll out the remaining dough into a circle. Cut a small slit or hole in the center to allow steam to escape during baking.
- 13.
Cover the pie with the top crust, pressing the edges together to seal. Crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork.

- 14.
Beat the egg until smooth and brush it over the top crust for a golden finish.

- 15.
Bake the pie in the preheated oven at 180°C (top and bottom heat) or 160–170°C with convection for 45–50 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
- 16.
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool before serving to allow the filling to set.

Which apples to choose
It’s best to use firm, sweet-tart apple varieties that offer a perfect balance of flavor. Their slight acidity helps offset the sweetness of the crust, making the dessert less cloying while adding a bright aroma and juiciness that make the pie even more delicious and appealing.