There is something truly magical about a classic Apple Pie with Lattice Crust Recipe that never fails to bring warmth and comfort, whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a sunny afternoon treat. This pie boasts a perfectly flakey, buttery crust woven into a beautiful lattice pattern that showcases a luscious filling of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples. Every slice offers an irresistible blend of sweetness, spice, and that little touch of tartness from lemon juice that brightens the flavors. It’s the kind of homemade dessert that tastes like love in every bite and instantly fills the kitchen with the most inviting aroma.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Apple Pie with Lattice Crust Recipe is wonderfully straightforward, yet each plays a vital role in creating that delicate balance of textures and flavors you love. From the flaky crust that hugs the juicy filling to the spices that add warmth and depth, every component comes together in harmony.
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base for your tender pie crust that ensures a perfect structure.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness of the pie.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Adds a subtle sweetness to the crust for a hint of caramelization when baked.
- 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into cubes): The secret to a flaky, melt-in-your-mouth crust texture.
- 6–8 tablespoons ice water: Keeps the butter cold and helps bring the dough together smoothly.
- 6 cups peeled and thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): The star of the filling, combining sweet and tart flavors with great texture.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the apple filling just right without overpowering.
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar: Brings a lovely molasses undertone and extra moisture to the filling.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Warms the palate with classic spice that’s essential in apple pies.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle, earthy spiciness that complements the cinnamon perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Thickens the filling to keep it luscious but not runny.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens and balances the sweetness while preventing apple browning.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with a smooth, fragrant sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into small pieces): Dottered over the apples to enrich the filling with buttery pockets.
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash): Gives the lattice crust a gorgeous golden shine.
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling): Adds a delightful crunchy texture and sparkle on top.
How to Make Apple Pie with Lattice Crust Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust Dough
Start by whisking together the flour, salt, and sugar in a large mixing bowl to evenly distribute the dry ingredients. Then, add the cold butter cubes. Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, work the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs—this is what creates that signature flakiness. Slowly drizzle in the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough just holds together. Avoid overworking, so you keep the texture tender. Divide the dough into two discs, wrap each in plastic wrap, and let them chill in the fridge for at least one hour. This rest period will make your dough easier to roll and help maintain the crust’s structure.
Step 2: Mix the Apple Pie Filling
While the dough chills, combine your sliced apples with the granulated and brown sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, lemon juice, and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Toss everything gently but thoroughly so the apples are evenly coated. This mixture is where all the warmth, sweetness, and hint of tartness come from, creating a filling bursting with flavor and perfect texture.
Step 3: Roll Out the Bottom Crust and Fill
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of chilled dough into a circle large enough to line your 9-inch pie plate. Transfer it gently to the dish, letting any overhang hang off the edges for now. Pour in the apple mixture and scatter the small pieces of butter across the top—the butter will melt and create rich pockets of flavor in the filling as it bakes.
Step 4: Craft the Signature Lattice Top
Roll out the second dough disc and cut it into 1/2-inch wide strips. To create that beautiful lattice crust, lay half the strips parallel across the pie, then carefully weave the remaining strips perpendicularly over and under, alternating to form a charming woven pattern. Trim any dough overhang and crimp the edges with your fingers or a fork for a polished look.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake
Brush the entire lattice and crust edges with the beaten egg to give your pie its stunning golden finish. If you like a little extra sparkle and crunch, sprinkle coarse sugar on top. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Then lower the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 35 to 40 minutes, until the crust is gorgeously golden brown and the filling bubbles with joy. Let your pie cool for at least two hours—patience is key to ensuring each slice holds together beautifully!
How to Serve Apple Pie with Lattice Crust Recipe
Garnishes
While this pie shines on its own, adding a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top enhances every bite with cool, smooth contrast. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a delicate sweetness and pretty presentation if you’re serving guests.
Side Dishes
This Apple Pie pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of spiced tea or freshly brewed coffee, making it a perfect dessert for chilly evenings. If you want something a bit more indulgent, try it alongside a sharp cheddar cheese slice for a surprising but delightful flavor combo that’s beloved in many apple pie traditions.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your Apple Pie with Lattice Crust Recipe even more festive by serving it on beautiful rustic plates or in mini pie tins for individual portions. You can drizzle caramel sauce over each slice or offer a cinnamon-spiced crème anglaise for dipping. These little touches elevate the experience and really impress your friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers (though that’s unlikely!), cover your pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to five days. This keeps the crust from becoming soggy and the apples fresh.
Freezing
To freeze, bake the pie completely and let it cool, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat your slice in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes to restore the crust’s crispiness and warm the filling through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that lovely texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples in this Apple Pie with Lattice Crust Recipe?
Absolutely! Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great because they balance tartness and sweetness, but varieties like Braeburn or Fuji can work as well. Just make sure your apples are firm enough to hold their shape while baking.
Is it necessary to chill the dough before baking?
Yes, chilling is very important. It keeps the butter firm, which helps create that flaky texture, and prevents the crust from shrinking during baking. It also makes the dough easier to handle.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend designed for pastries. Just be aware the texture might vary slightly, so be sure to follow any package instructions for best results.
What can I use instead of coarse sugar for sprinkling?
If you don’t have coarse sugar, you can use regular granulated sugar or turbinado sugar for a similar effect. Just sprinkle lightly so it doesn’t melt away completely during baking.
Why is my lattice crust not crisp?
Sometimes, the lattice can soften if the filling is too wet or if the pie isn’t baked long enough. Make sure to toss your apples with flour before filling, and bake the pie on a lower oven rack for better heat circulation.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Pie with Lattice Crust Recipe is truly a timeless treasure that brings joy and warmth to any table. Its tender crust and fragrant spiced apple filling are a comfort food classic that you’ll love making and sharing over and over. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious homemade delight—you won’t regret it!
Print
Apple Pie with Lattice Crust Recipe
- Prep Time: 45 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes (plus chilling time)
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This classic Apple Pie with Lattice Crust is a timeless American dessert featuring a flaky, buttery crust and a spiced apple filling. Perfectly sweetened with a mix of granulated and brown sugars, and enhanced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, this pie delivers comforting flavors nestled within a beautifully woven lattice top crust. Ideal for any occasion, it pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into cubes)
- 6–8 tablespoons ice water
For the Filling:
- 6 cups peeled and thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)
For Assembly:
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling)
Instructions
- Make the Dough: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar for the crust. Add the cold butter cubes and cut them into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing just until the dough starts to hold together.
- Chill the Dough: Divide the dough in half, shape each into a disc, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
- Prepare the Filling: In a separate bowl, combine the thinly sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Toss thoroughly to evenly coat all the apple slices, then set aside to allow flavors to meld.
- Preheat Oven and Roll Out Dough: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). On a floured surface, roll out one disc of the chilled dough into a circle large enough to fit a 9-inch pie plate. Fit the dough into the pie plate, pressing gently to avoid air bubbles.
- Fill the Pie: Pour the apple filling into the crust and evenly distribute the small pieces of butter over the top of the filling.
- Create the Lattice Top: Roll out the second disc of dough and cut it into 1/2-inch wide strips. Arrange the strips over the apple filling in a lattice pattern, weaving them carefully to create an appealing design. Trim the excess dough and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
- Add Egg Wash and Sugar: Brush the lattice and crust edges with the beaten egg wash for a golden finish. If desired, sprinkle coarse sugar over the top for added texture and sparkle.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes. Then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 35 to 40 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
- Cool Before Serving: Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours to let the filling set properly before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For best results, chill the assembled pie for 15–20 minutes before baking to help the crust maintain its shape during baking.
- Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delightful contrast.
