Classic American Apple Pie

Classic American Apple Pie (2026 Viral Recipe). This recipe has gone viral for a reason: it’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious.

Below you will find the step-by-step instructions to make this amazing dish at home.

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a warm slice of classic American apple pie on a crisp autumn day. The combination of tender, flaky crust and sweet, tangy apples is a match made in heaven. This beloved dessert has been a staple of American cuisine for centuries, and its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of comfort food. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of making a classic American apple pie that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 4-6 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup cold water
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Made the pie crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold butter and flour. Use a pastry blender or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the salt and mix until combined.
3. Roll out the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and roll it out into a circle that’s about 1/8 inch thick. Transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie dish and trim the edges to fit.
4. Made the filling: In a separate bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until the apples are evenly coated with the dry ingredients.
5. Fill the pie crust: Fill the pie crust with the apple mixture and dot the top with butter.
6. Cover with a lattice crust (optional): If you want to make a lattice-top crust, roll out the remaining dough circle to about 1/8 inch thickness. Use a pastry cutter or a knife to cut strips that are about 1 inch wide. Place the strips on top of the apple filling in a lattice pattern, weaving them together and trimming the edges.
7. Egg wash: Beat the egg in a small bowl and brush it over the pie crust to give it a golden brown finish.
8. Bake the pie: Place the pie on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender. Rotate the pie halfway through baking.
9. Cool the pie: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Pro Tips for Success

Here are some pro tips to help you achieve the perfect classic American apple pie:

• Mix the dough just until it comes together: Overworking the dough can lead to a tough, unpleasant texture. Stop mixing as soon as the ingredients come together in a cohesive ball.
• Use the right apples: Choose a combination of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Fuji, for the best flavor.
• Don’t overfill the pie crust: Leave about 1/2 inch of space between the filling and the edges of the crust to allow for expansion during baking.
• Rotate the pie frequently: This ensures that the heat is distributed evenly and prevents hot spots from forming, which can cause the crust to burn.

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve got you covered with answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about making classic American apple pie:

• Q: Can I use a food processor to make the dough?

A: While it’s technically possible, we don’t recommend using a food processor for this recipe. The resulting dough may be too dense and tough.

• Q: How do I store leftover pie?

A: Cool the pie completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and storing it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freezing for up to 2 months. Allow the pie to thaw at room temperature or in the refrigerator before serving.

With these simple steps and pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a classic American apple pie that’s sure to impress even the most discerning palates. So go ahead, get baking, and enjoy every delicious bite!

💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Air Frying

• Space is Key: Don’t overcrowd the basket for max crispiness. 🌬️
• Preheat: A preheated air fryer gives better results. 🔥
• Shake: Flip halfway for even browning. 🔄

💡 Master Your Air Fryer: Pro Tips

• Airflow: Don’t crowd the basket. 🌬️
• Preheat: 3-5 mins for best results. 🔥
• Shake: Flip halfway for even browning. 🔄

Why You Should Use an Air Fryer for This Recipe

Using an air fryer is a game-changer for this recipe. Unlike traditional frying, it uses up to 95% less oil, making your meal significantly healthier without sacrificing that delicious crunch. Plus, it is faster than a conventional oven and doesn’t heat up your entire kitchen.

Pro Tips for Perfection

• Don’t Overcrowd: Always cook in a single layer to ensure the hot air circulates evenly.
• Preheat: Taking 3 minutes to preheat your air fryer ensures the food starts cooking immediately for a crispier texture.
• Shake It: Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on all sides.

How to Store and Reheat

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until they are crispy again. Do not use a microwave, as it will make them soggy.