Few desserts feel as comforting and timeless as a golden apple pie. With its flaky crust, warm spiced filling, and golden-brown finish, it’s a classic treat that brings together sweet apples, aromatic cinnamon, and a buttery crust. Whether served at a holiday table or as a cozy weekend dessert, this pie never goes out of style. The key is to choose the right apples—firm and slightly tart varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn work wonderfully since they hold their shape and balance the sweetness of the sugar.
Ingredients:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 6–8 tablespoons ice water
- 6–7 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for filling thickener)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling on top)
Instructions:
- Make the crust:
In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in the butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour. - Prepare the filling:
In a separate bowl, combine apple slices with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are evenly coated. - Assemble the pie:
Roll out one dough disc on a floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Pour the apple filling inside and spread evenly. Roll out the second disc and place it over the filling, or cut into strips to make a lattice top. Trim and crimp the edges to seal. - Bake to golden perfection:
Brush the top crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 50–60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Cover the edges with foil if they brown too quickly. - Cool and serve:
Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing, so the filling sets. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Serving:
This golden apple pie is perfect as a centerpiece dessert for gatherings, but it’s equally delightful enjoyed with a simple cup of tea on a quiet afternoon.