Warm Cinnamon Apple Pie: A Comforting Classic Dessert

Few desserts are as beloved as a homemade cinnamon apple pie. With its flaky, buttery crust, perfectly spiced apple filling, and sweet cinnamon-sugar topping, this pie is the epitome of comfort food. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering or a cozy night at home, this recipe will warm hearts and delight taste buds.

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust:

• 2½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (230g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 6-8 tablespoons ice water

For the Apple Filling:

• 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)
• ¼ cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

For the Cinnamon-Sugar Topping:

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the texture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together.
3. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Filling

1. In a large bowl, mix the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.

Step 4: Roll Out the Dough

1. Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface into a circle large enough to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
2. Transfer the dough to the dish, pressing it gently to fit, and trim the edges as needed.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

1. Pour the apple mixture into the pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
2. In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon for the topping and sprinkle it generously over the apples.

Step 6: Bake the Pie

1. Place the pie on the center rack of the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the apples are tender.
2. If the crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.

Step 7: Cool and Serve
Let the pie cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a truly decadent treat.

Tips for the Best Apple Pie

1. Choose the Right Apples: Use firm apples like Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for sweetness.
2. Keep the Dough Cold: Chilling the dough ensures a tender, flaky crust.
3. Balance Sweetness and Spice: Adjust the sugar and cinnamon to your personal taste preference.

Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

• Richly Spiced Filling: Warm cinnamon and nutmeg create the perfect apple pie flavor.
• Flaky, Buttery Crust: A homemade crust makes this dessert extra special.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for holidays, family dinners, or a cozy weekend indulgence.

Bake It Today!

This warm cinnamon apple pie is a dessert that feels like a hug in every bite. With its perfectly spiced filling and buttery crust, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Bake one today and share your experience in the comments below. Happy baking!