This Maple Apple Pie is a warm and cozy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. It features sweet apples mixed with rich maple syrup, all wrapped in a flaky crust that will make your taste buds dance!
I love how the smell of this pie filling the kitchen brings everyone together. It’s like a hug in dessert form! Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream for an extra treat. 🍏🥧
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: A mix of tart (like Granny Smith) and sweet (like Honeycrisp) apples creates the perfect balance of flavors. If you’re in a pinch, other varieties like Fuji or Gala can work too. Just remember, using a mix adds depth!
Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is key for that warm flavor. If you can’t find it, you can use agave syrup or honey, but the taste will change. Stick with maple if you can for the best results!
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling the saltiness in the crust. In a pinch, you can use margarine, but the flavor might not be as rich. Always choose very cold butter for flakiness!
Cornstarch: It helps thicken the filling. If you’re looking for a substitute, you can use all-purpose flour, but use a little more—about a tablespoon more than what the recipe calls for.
How Do I Get a Flaky Pie Crust?
Getting a flaky pie crust is easier than you might think! Here are some tips to help you succeed:
- Keep Ingredients Cold: Use very cold butter and ice water. Cold fat creates steam which helps make the crust flaky.
- Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix gently until just combined. Over-mixing can lead to a tough crust.
- Rest the Dough: Chill the dough for at least an hour before rolling it out. This makes it easier to handle and helps prevent shrinkage.
- Rolling Technique: Roll out from the center outward and use minimal flour to avoid sticking. A quick dusting should do!
With these tips, you’ll have a beautiful, flaky crust for your Maple Apple Pie! Enjoy baking!
How to Make Maple Apple Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pie Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, divided
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar (for crust)
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, very cold and cubed
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 to 7 medium apples (about 3 pounds), peeled, cored, and sliced (a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp preferred)
- 2/3 cup pure maple syrup
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For Assembling the Pie:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Coarse sugar (for sprinkling on top)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Maple Apple Pie takes about 30 minutes of prep time, plus 2 hours to chill the dough, and about 1 hour for baking. After baking, let it cool for at least 2 hours. So, plan for a half-day of delicious baking fun, and your home will smell amazing!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Pie Crust:
In a large bowl, mix 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon granulated sugar together. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to cut it into the flour until it looks like coarse crumbs, with some pieces about the size of peas.
2. Add Ice Water:
Gradually pour in the ice water, starting with 1/4 cup. Mix gently with a fork, adding more water a tablespoon at a time until the dough just holds together. Don’t mix too much—this breads the crust!
3. Chill the Dough:
Divide the dough into two equal discs, wrap each one in plastic wrap, and pop them in the fridge for at least 1 hour. This helps make your crust flaky!
4. Prepare the Apple Filling:
While the dough is chilling, peel, core, and slice your apples. Toss them in a large bowl with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to keep them from browning. In another bowl, mix the maple syrup, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth, then pour this over the apples and mix gently.
5. Preheat the Oven:
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
6. Roll Out the First Dough Disc:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disc of dough into a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish and trim any excess hanging over the edges.
7. Fill the Pie:
Pour the apple filling into the crust, spreading it out evenly.
8. Roll Out the Second Dough Disc:
Roll out the second disc into another 12-inch circle. You can either cut it into strips for a lattice crust or leave it whole to cover. For a lattice, weave the strips over the filling; if using a full top, remember to cut some vents for steam!
9. Trim and Seal:
Trim any excess dough from the edges and crimp them to seal the pie. This keeps the filling from leaking out!
10. Brush and Sprinkle:
Brush the top crust with the beaten egg for a beautiful, golden finish. Sprinkle some coarse sugar on top for extra sweetness and crunch!
11. Bake the Pie:
Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake it at 425°F for 15 minutes, then reduce the heat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 40-50 minutes until the crust is golden and bubbling.
12. Cool Before Serving:
Once baked, let the pie cool for at least 2 hours. This helps the filling set perfectly!
Enjoy your homemade Maple Apple Pie warm or at room temperature, preferably with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s the perfect combination for a cozy dessert! 🎉🥧
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! A mix of tart and sweet apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, works best for flavor balance. Other good options include Fuji, Gala, or even Braeburn if you prefer. Just ensure they are suited for baking!
Can I Make the Pie Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the pie dough in advance! Just wrap the discs in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to 3 months. Just let it thaw in the fridge overnight before using.
How Do I Know When the Pie is Done Baking?
The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If you notice the edges are browning too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the oven or microwave. Enjoy it warm to revive that just-baked taste!
