Apple and Cinnamon Pie

Name: Apple and Cinnamon Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced; 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water; 6 to 8 apples, peeled and sliced; 3/4 cup sugar; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

Delight in the comforting flavors of this classic Apple and Cinnamon Pie recipe, perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings. With a buttery, flaky crust enveloping tender spiced apples, this dessert captures the essence of fall and is sure to impress your family and friends. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable treat that embodies the spirit of the season.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-10-23T09:38:35.147Z

Apple and Cinnamon Pie has long been a beloved dessert during the fall season. The combination of sweet, juicy apples enhanced by warming cinnamon creates a delightful flavor profile that is both nostalgic and satisfying.

The Essence of Autumn Flavors

Apple and cinnamon are two ingredients that perfectly capture the spirit of fall. The combination creates a warm, inviting aroma that fills your home, making it an ideal dessert for any fall gathering. Each bite into the pie unveils tender, spiced apples, evoking memories of bustling apple orchards and chilly afternoons.

This recipe not only showcases the delightful pairing of these ingredients but also serves as a canvas for versatility. You can experiment with different apple varieties to find the perfect blend of sweetness and tartness, making every pie uniquely yours. This adaptability is part of what makes this recipe a beloved choice for many.

Perfecting the Flaky Crust

A pie is only as good as its crust. The rich, buttery flavor and flaky texture of this crust allow it to complement the spiced apple filling beautifully. It’s crucial to work with chilled butter and ice water, as this helps create that flaky texture that all great pies should have.

Remember, the key to a tender crust lies in how you handle the dough. Overworking the dough can lead to a tough, chewy crust, so be gentle during the mixing and rolling processes. Chilling the dough not only allows the gluten to relax but also enhances the buttery flavor, giving you a crust that’s irresistible!

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

While this Apple and Cinnamon Pie is delightful on its own, serving it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream elevates the experience to a whole new level. The creaminess of the ice cream melts into the warm pie, creating a delightful contrast of temperatures that your guests will love.

For a touch of elegance, consider a dusting of powdered sugar on top or pairing the pie with a drizzle of caramel sauce. You could also complement it with a hot cup of spiced cider or coffee, making it a cozy dessert suited for any fall evening gathering.

Ingredients

For the Crust

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
6 to 8 tablespoons ice water

For the Filling

6 to 8 apples, peeled and sliced
3/4 cup sugar
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Make sure to prepare your ingredients ahead of time for a smoother cooking experience!

Instructions

Make the Crust

In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in water, a tablespoon at a time, until mixture forms a ball.

Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Prepare the Filling

In another bowl, mix apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Let it sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Assemble the Pie

Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out half of the dough into a pie pan. Fill with the apple mixture and roll out the remaining dough for the top.

Seal and cut slits for steam.

Bake the Pie

Bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven. Reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 30 minutes, until apples are soft and crust is golden brown.

Let the pie cool for at least 30 minutes before serving for better slicing.

Tips for the Best Results

To achieve the best flavor, choose a variety of apples that balance sweetness and tartness, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination ensures your pie has depth and complexity. Additionally, let your filling rest for a short period before baking; this allows the flavors to meld and the sugars to extract from the apples, enhancing the overall taste.

If you're concerned about the crust over-browning, you can cover the edges with foil during baking. This simple step protects your crust while ensuring the apples cook through perfectly. Be sure to budget time for chilling the crust; the longer, the better!

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying this delicious pie, you may find yourself with leftovers. To store, simply cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil and keep it at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for about a week. Just make sure it's wrapped well to prevent it from drying out.

If you want to enjoy a slice later, consider freezing individual slices. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw and reheat to experience that freshly baked taste once again!

Variations to Try

Feel free to add your personal touch by incorporating nuts or raisins into the apple filling for some added texture. Chopped walnuts or pecans can introduce a delightful crunch, while raisins add a hint of sweetness. Spices like ginger or cloves can also be introduced for an exciting twist on the classic flavors.

For a twist on the traditional recipe, consider making a crumb topping instead of a full pie crust. This change not only adds a different texture but also creates a sweet, crispy crown that pairs wonderfully with the tender apples below. Explore these variations and let your creativity flow in the kitchen!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen apples for this pie?

Yes, but thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.

→ What can I substitute for sugar?

You can use brown sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia, adjusting the quantity as necessary.