Grandma’s Apple Pie

If you don’t want to make a lattice top you can make a Dutch crumble topping (see the Tips and Tricks and FAQs below). During apple season I use process the fresh apples from the orchard into Apple Pie filling using this recipe and then freeze it and use it throughout the year for apple pies, ice cream topping, or in oatmeal!

At Ajpal, I add lots of tips in all of my recipes – because I am a home cook without any formal training, and I find I am more confident making dishes when I understand why it works, and what each ingredient means to the flavor of a recipe. My goal is for even the most beginner home cook to feel empowered in the kitchen.

How to Make the Best Apple Pie

Grandma’s Apple Pie Recipe Ingredients

First assemble the following ingredients:

• Pie Crusts (2, premade) – Buttery and flaky premade pie crusts provide a crisp, golden base and top layer without the hassle of making dough from scratch.
• Granny smith apples (8) – Tart and firm Granny Smith apples hold their shape during baking and balance the sweetness of the filling.
• Brown sugar (1/2 cup) – Brown sugar adds sweetness with a rich, molasses depth that complements warm spices.
• All-purpose flour (1/4 cup) – Flour thickens the apple juices, creating a filling that’s gooey instead of runny.
• Lemon juice (1 tbsp) – A splash of lemon juice brightens the flavor and prevents the apples from browning.
• Ground cinnamon (1 and 1/2 tsp) – Cinnamon infuses the filling with warm, cozy spice that defines classic apple pie flavor.
• Ground allspice (1/4 tsp) – Allspice adds a subtle peppery sweetness with hints of clove and nutmeg.
• Ground nutmeg (1/4 tsp) – Nutmeg contributes a warm, earthy aroma and a slightly sweet nuttiness.
• Ground cloves (¼ tsp) – Cloves bring a bold, spicy kick that deepens the overall spice profile.
• Sea salt (¼ tsp) – A pinch of sea salt sharpens flavors and balances the sweetness.
• Egg Wash (1 egg and 1 tbsp water) – The egg wash gives the crust a golden, glossy finish and helps seal the edges.

Steps to Make Easy Lattice Apple Pie

Once you’ve gathered your ingredients, we will use the following method:

Make Pie Crust

Use my recipe to make pie crust, or use store-bought bake-ready crusts.

Prep & Peel Apples

Peel and slice your apples.

Prep Pie Crust

Spread the pie crust into the pie pan making sure its smooth and there aren’t any bubbles. Place in the fridge.

Cook Filling

Combine the apples, sugar, flour, lemon juice, salt, and all the spices in a pot, cook on medium heat for 5 minutes or until they begin to soften. Set aside to cool.

Make Lattice

Spread the other pie crust on a sheet of parchment paper and slice it into 1/2 inch strips. Remove every other strip and weave them into a lattice, gently roll the rolling pin across the lattice (don’t press down hard). Place back in the fridge.

Bake Apple Pie

Carefully spoon the apples into the pie crust and place the lattice over the pie. Trim and crimp the edges. Brush with egg was and bake at 400 degrees F for 20 minutes then lower the temperature to 375 degrees F for another 40 minutes (you may need a pie shield for the crust).

Let Cool

Let cool 3 hours so juices can set. Enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for Perfect American Apple Pie

Use a mix of apple varieties (like Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness) for the best flavor balance.

Keep everything cold—butter, water, even the flour if possible—to ensure a flaky crust.

Use Pie Shield – If the crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil or a pie shield.

Let it Rest – Let the pie rest at least 2 hours before slicing so the filling sets.

Serve – This apple pie is best served with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Store Well – This pie can be stored at room temperature for 1-2 days then refrigerated for another 2 days. Reheat slices in the oven to keep the crust crisp.

Homemade Apple Pie FAQs

Bake the pie on the lower oven rack, pre-cook the filling slightly, and coat the bottom crust with a thin layer of egg wash or a sprinkle of breadcrumbs before adding the apples.

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but leaving the skins on can add color, fiber, and a rustic look.

Yes! You can assemble the pie and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours, or freeze it unbaked for up to 3 months. Bake straight from the freezer, adding extra time as needed.

Cover the edges with foil or use a pie shield once they’re golden brown, while allowing the center to finish baking.

Absolutely! You can use a crumb topping (streusel) instead for an apple crumble pie. Mix together flour, sugar (white or brown), and a pinch of cinnamon, then cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle it evenly over the pie filling before baking for a sweet, buttery, crumbly topping.

Both are delicious, but slightly warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream is a classic choice.

More Apple Recipes

Try my cinnamon apple Dutch baby and favorite bourbon apple cider cocktail next!

Easy Apple Banana Cake Bread

Easy French Apple Tart

Grandma’s Apple Pie

Sparkling Apple Cider Rum Punch Recipe

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