If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that smells like a warm hug and tastes like a cozy autumn afternoon, then this Classic Baked Spiced Apple Pie Recipe is your new best friend. Every forkful delivers tender, cinnamon-kissed apples wrapped in a perfectly flaky golden crust that’s kissed with just the right amount of sweetness and spice. This pie isn’t just a dessert—it’s a celebration of simple, timeless ingredients coming together to create something truly magical in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Classic Baked Spiced Apple Pie Recipe lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that combine to craft layers of flavor and texture. Each component plays an essential role, from the buttery crust that offers a tender, flaky base to the spiced apples that balance sweetness with a touch of warmth and zest.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the sturdy but tender structure for the perfect pie crust.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness in the crust and filling.
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar: Adds a subtle touch of sweetness to the dough for a well-rounded crust.
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced: The key to a flaky, rich crust that melts in your mouth.
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water: Just enough to bring the dough together without making it tough.
- 6 to 8 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced: The juicy heart of the pie, balancing tart and sweet perfectly.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the apple filling to complement the natural tartness.
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar: Brings a deep, caramel-like richness to the filling.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Provides that signature warm, spicy aroma and classic flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a nutty, slightly sweet depth to the spice blend.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Contributes a bold, aromatic kick balancing the spices beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Thickens the filling, ensuring it holds together without being runny.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a sweet floral note.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the filling and prevents the apples from browning.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces: Dotting on top adds richness as it melts into the apples.
- 1 egg yolk: Used for brushing on the crust for that beautiful golden color.
- 1 tablespoon milk: Helps the egg yolk form a perfect glaze on the crust.
How to Make Classic Baked Spiced Apple Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar, setting the stage for a perfectly balanced crust. Next, add the chilled butter and work it into the flour using a pastry blender until you get a coarse, crumb-like texture. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together. Don’t overmix—you want tender pastry, not tough! Divide the dough into two balls, wrap them tightly, and chill in the fridge for at least one hour to give the butter time to firm up again.
Step 2: Make the Spiced Apple Filling
While your dough chills, grab a large bowl to toss together the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and a splash of lemon juice. Every apple slice should be coated generously—that’s where all the flavorful magic starts! This combination ensures your filling is both sweet and warmly spiced without being overpowering.
Step 3: Roll Out and Assemble the Pie
On a lightly floured surface, roll one dough ball out to fit a 9-inch pie pan. This will be your pie’s sturdy, buttery base. Gently lay the dough in the pan and trim off any edges that hang too far over. Next, pour in the spiced apple filling, making sure to spread it evenly. Dot the filling with small pieces of unsalted butter—these pockets of richness will add a luscious finish.
Step 4: Top the Pie and Prepare for Baking
Roll out the second dough ball and carefully place it over the apple filling. Trim excess dough, then seal and crimp the edges to lock all those juicy apples inside. Don’t forget to cut small slits on top to allow steam to escape—this keeps the crust crisp instead of soggy. Whisk the egg yolk with milk and brush it over the crust to achieve a golden, glossy finish once baked.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake the pie at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes to set the crust, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 35 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the crust turns a gorgeous golden brown and the apples inside are tender and bubbling with warmth. Let the pie cool on a wire rack before slicing so the filling can set just right.
How to Serve Classic Baked Spiced Apple Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A classic pie deserves classic garnishes—a scoop of rich vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream takes this dessert to the next level. Sprinkle a little ground cinnamon or finely chopped toasted nuts on top to add texture and visual appeal for an extra-special touch.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs beautifully with warm beverages like spiced cider or a cup of freshly brewed coffee. For a cozy fall dessert spread, serve alongside a sharp cheddar cheese slice or a small serving of custard for a comforting contrast of flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try turning your Classic Baked Spiced Apple Pie Recipe into mini hand pies or tartlets for a fun twist at gatherings. You can also sprinkle coarse sugar on the crust before baking for an elegant sparkling effect, or serve slices with a drizzle of caramel sauce for those with a serious sweet tooth.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover your leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the pie will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days, making it an easy dessert to enjoy over multiple meals.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked pie or baked leftovers. To freeze before baking, wrap pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to two months. When ready, bake from frozen—just add a little extra baking time. For baked pie, wrap slices well and freeze for up to one month; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your pie slices gently in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 to 15 minutes to restore that fresh-baked warmth and crispness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the crust soggy, but if you’re in a hurry, a quick zap combined with a warm oven finish works well.
FAQs
What apples work best for this Classic Baked Spiced Apple Pie Recipe?
Mixes of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples provide the perfect balance: Granny Smith adds tartness and firmness, while Honeycrisp brings natural sweetness and juiciness. Together, they create a filling that’s both flavorful and has ideal texture.
Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of making my own?
Absolutely! Store-bought crusts save time and still bake up beautifully. Just make sure to follow the same layering and filling steps for a delicious pie that feels homemade.
How do I prevent the crust edges from burning?
To avoid overly browned edges, shield them with foil or use a pie crust shield halfway through baking. This ensures the crust cooks evenly without burning while the filling finishes baking.
Is it okay to prepare the pie in advance?
You can perfectly prepare the pie up to the step before baking, then cover and refrigerate overnight. Let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it into the oven to ensure even baking.
Why is cornstarch used in the filling?
Cornstarch acts as a thickening agent to keep the apple juices from running when sliced. It creates a luscious, not watery, filling that holds its shape beautifully while still juicy and tender.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about baking a classic pie from scratch, and this Classic Baked Spiced Apple Pie Recipe is a wonderful way to create warm memories around the kitchen table. With simple ingredients and a little care, you end up with a dessert that tastes like love in every bite. So, gather your apples, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this timeless recipe—I promise it will become a cherished favorite in your home too!
Print
Classic Baked Spiced Apple Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Classic Baked Spiced Apple Pie features a flaky homemade crust filled with a sweet and warmly spiced apple mixture. With traditional spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this pie is a comforting dessert perfect for any occasion, especially during fall or holiday seasons.
Ingredients
Pie Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
- 6 to 8 tablespoons ice water
Filling:
- 6 to 8 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Topping:
- 1 egg yolk
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for baking the pie.
- Make the pie dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the chilled diced butter and use a pastry blender to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water one tablespoon at a time until a dough forms. Divide it into two balls, wrap them in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour.
- Prepare the filling: In another large bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, cornstarch, vanilla extract, and lemon juice until all apples are evenly coated.
- Roll out bottom crust: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one ball of dough to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Transfer the dough to the pan, trimming any excess edges.
- Add filling and butter: Fill the crust with the apple mixture and evenly dot the filling with small pieces of unsalted butter.
- Roll out top crust and seal: Roll out the second dough ball and place it over the filling. Trim off excess, seal, and crimp the edges to secure the pie.
- Vent and glaze: Cut several small slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape while baking. In a small bowl, whisk the egg yolk and milk, then brush this glaze over the pie crust for a golden finish.
- Bake the pie: Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15 minutes. Then reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for 35 to 45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Cool before serving: Remove the pie from oven and let it cool in the pan placed on a wire rack before slicing and serving to allow the filling to set.
Notes
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples (like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp) for balanced flavor and texture.
- Ensure the butter and ice water are cold to create a flaky pie crust.
- Chilling the dough helps prevent shrinking during baking.
- The egg wash gives the crust a shiny, golden appearance but can be omitted for an egg-free option.
- Allowing the pie to cool before serving helps the filling thicken and improves slicing.
