There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a freshly baked flaky apple pie. With its golden, buttery crust and warm cinnamon-spiced apples, this dessert wraps you in a hug from the inside out. It’s the kind of pie that begs for a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a cozy moment at your kitchen table.

Flaky apple pie isn’t just a seasonal treat; it’s a celebration of everything homemade. The crust shatters delicately with every bite, revealing a luscious filling that’s sweet, slightly tart, and gently spiced. Whether you’re baking it for a special holiday or simply because it’s Tuesday, this pie is always a good idea.

Why You’ll Love This Flaky Apple Pie

This recipe hits all the right notes: a perfectly crisp and flaky crust, tender apples infused with warm spices, and just the right amount of sweetness. It’s an approachable bake that feels gourmet without being fussy. And if you’re someone who loves the nostalgic scent of apple pie drifting through the house, this one will become a fast favorite.

What Kind of Apples Should I Use?

The best apple pies use a mix of apple varieties. Combining tart apples like Granny Smith with sweeter ones like Honeycrisp or Fuji creates a depth of flavor and texture. The tartness balances the sugar, and the sweet varieties bring juiciness without becoming mushy. Always slice them evenly to ensure they cook consistently.

Ingredients for the Flaky Apple Pie

Great pie starts with great ingredients. For this flaky apple pie, we keep things simple but high in quality to let the natural flavor of the apples shine.

All-purpose flour: This is the base for your flaky crust. It provides structure without being too heavy.
Unsalted butter: Cold and cubed, this is essential for creating those tender, buttery layers in the crust.
Salt: A little salt balances out the sweetness and enhances flavor.
Ice water: Keeps the dough cold so the butter doesn’t melt while mixing, which is key for flakiness.
Apples: A mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp gives the perfect sweet-tart contrast.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the filling just enough without overpowering the apples.
Brown sugar: Adds a hint of molasses depth and richness to the apple mixture.
Ground cinnamon: Brings that warm, cozy flavor that defines apple pie.
Nutmeg: Just a pinch gives it a touch of warmth and spice.
Lemon juice: Prevents the apples from browning and adds brightness.
Cornstarch: Thickens the filling so it holds together when sliced.
Egg: For the egg wash that gives the crust that glossy, golden finish.

How To Make the Flaky Apple Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by mixing the flour and salt in a large bowl. Add cold butter cubes and cut them in using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water and mix until the dough comes together. Divide in two, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least an hour.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

Peel, core, and thinly slice your apples. In a large bowl, toss them with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Let it sit for about 15 minutes while you roll out the crust.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie

Roll out one disc of dough and fit it into your pie dish. Spoon in the apple filling, mounding slightly in the center. Dot with a few pieces of butter if desired. Roll out the second disc for the top crust, lay it over the filling, and crimp the edges to seal. Cut a few slits in the top for steam to escape.

Step 4: Bake the Pie

Brush the crust with beaten egg and sprinkle with a bit of sugar for sparkle. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes, then reduce to 375°F and continue baking for 35 to 40 minutes, until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.

Step 5: Let It Rest

Cool the pie for at least two hours before slicing to allow the filling to set. It’s hard to wait, but it’s worth it!

How to Serve and Store Flaky Apple Pie

This pie is best served slightly warm or at room temperature. It easily serves 8 people and pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. If you have leftovers, store them covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave to bring back that just-baked taste.

What to Serve With Flaky Apple Pie?

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

Classic and unbeatable. The creamy cold ice cream melting over a warm slice of apple pie is dessert magic.

Salted Caramel Drizzle

A few spoonfuls of salted caramel take this pie to the next level. Sweet, salty, sticky, and perfect.

Whipped Cream

Light and airy whipped cream gives a soft contrast to the flaky crust and juicy apples.

Sharp Cheddar Cheese

It might surprise you, but cheddar and apple pie is an old-school combo that works beautifully. Try a slice on top of warm pie.

Cinnamon-Spiced Pecans

Sprinkle some toasted pecans with cinnamon on top for a crunchy finish and extra autumn vibes.

Warm Apple Cider

A mug of spiced apple cider on the side ties everything together, especially for fall gatherings.

Homemade Chai Tea

For a cozier pairing, steep a spiced chai to sip alongside each forkful of pie.

Want More Pie Ideas?

If this flaky apple pie hits the spot, you’ll love exploring more sweet creations:

Old-Time Oven Peach Cobbler for that syrupy, buttery summer charm.
Mini Cinnamon Roll Cheesecakes if you want cinnamon flavor in a creamy bite-sized treat.
Ooey Gooey Bars for a rich and indulgent dessert alternative.
Cherry Topped Coconut Macaroons when you’re craving something chewy and tropical.
Butter Pecan Pound Cake for those cozy, nutty cake vibes.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how your flaky apple pie turned out. Did you mix up the apple varieties or add a personal twist? I’d love to hear how you made it your own. Questions are welcome, too – let’s bake smarter together!

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