Classic Apple Pie à la Mode Recipe

There is something incredibly comforting and timeless about a warm slice of apple pie, especially when topped with a melting scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. This Classic Apple Pie à la Mode Recipe combines crisp, tart Granny Smith and sweet Honeycrisp apples with a flaky, buttery crust, creating a luscious balance of textures and flavors that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. Whether you’re baking for a special gathering or a simple indulgence on a quiet night, this recipe is guaranteed to become a treasured favorite that brings smiles around the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Classic Apple Pie à la Mode Recipe lies in its straightforward and honest ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, from the flour that forms the foundation of the crust to the perfect blend of apples that provide the star flavor. These simple staples work together to create a pie that’s both rustic and elegant.

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: This versatile flour gives the crust the perfect structure and lightness.
• 1 tsp salt: Enhances the overall flavor without overpowering the sweet elements.
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the crust for balance.
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced: The key to a rich, flaky crust that melts in your mouth.
• 6 to 8 tbsp ice water: Keeps the dough tender while helping it to bind together.
• 6 to 8 cups thinly sliced peeled apples (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp): A mix of tart and sweet apples creates dynamic flavor and texture.
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the apple filling perfectly without making it cloying.
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the filling, so it’s perfectly luscious, not runny.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds warmth that complements the apples beautifully.
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg: Just a hint for added depth and spice.
• 2 tbsp butter: Dotted over the filling for a glossy, rich finish.
• 1 egg yolk: Brushed on the crust to give it a gorgeous golden sheen.
• 1 tbsp milk: Mixed with egg yolk for that perfect crust glaze.
• Vanilla ice cream for serving: The essential finishing touch for the perfect à la mode experience.

How to Make Classic Apple Pie à la Mode Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by setting your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high initial temperature ensures the crust starts baking strong and the filling begins bubbling to perfection right away. It’s the opening move for a pie that will make your kitchen smell heavenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Dough

In a large bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups flour, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tbsp granulated sugar. Cut in the chilled, diced butter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. This method helps create flaky layers in your crust. Be patient and work quickly to keep the butter cold for the best texture.

Step 3: Form the Dough Disks

Gradually add ice water a tablespoon at a time, stirring just until the dough begins to come together. Separate the dough into two disks—one slightly larger for the bottom crust—wrap them in plastic, and refrigerate. This rest period firms up the dough and makes it easier to roll out later.

Step 4: Prepare the Apple Filling

In another bowl, toss the thinly sliced apples with 3/4 cup sugar, 2 tbsp flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg until every slice is beautifully coated. This blend not only sweetens the apples but also adds spice and keeps the filling thick and luscious when baked.

Step 5: Roll Out the Bottom Crust and Add Filling

Roll out the larger dough disk on a lightly floured surface until it fits a 9-inch pie pan comfortably. Press the crust gently into the pan, ensuring it’s evenly spread. Pour in the apple filling and dot the top with 2 tbsp of butter. The butter enriches the filling as it melts during baking.

Step 6: Top with Second Crust and Seal

Roll out the remaining dough and lay it over the apples. Trim the edges and crimp them together to seal the pie. Cut several small slits in the top crust to let steam escape, ensuring a perfectly baked filling without soggy areas.

Step 7: Brush the Crust

Whisk together the egg yolk and milk, and brush this glossy mixture over the pie’s crust. This step gives the pie a gorgeous golden finish, making every slice as beautiful as it is delicious.

Step 8: Bake the Pie

Bake the pie for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C) to set the crust, then lower the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for another 35 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender and bubbling.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Let the pie cool slightly so the filling can set, then slice generous wedges. Top each with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream, and voilà—your Classic Apple Pie à la Mode Recipe is ready to delight!

How to Serve Classic Apple Pie à la Mode Recipe

Garnishes

A simple sprinkle of powdered sugar or a light dusting of cinnamon adds a final touch of elegance. Toasted chopped nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce can create extra layers of texture and flavor that wow every bite.

Side Dishes

This pie shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a robust cup of coffee or a light herbal tea, which balance the sweetness while keeping the focus on the pie. If you’re serving a full meal, fresh fruit salad or a simple green salad with vinaigrette can refresh the palate perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual mini apple pies à la mode in ramekins or create rustic hand pies that are portable and perfect for picnics. You can also experiment with lattice crusts or decorative cutouts to make your presentation stunningly unique yet still true to the Classic Apple Pie à la Mode Recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days, making it perfect for enjoying a slice or two as a quick dessert treat later on.

Freezing

You can freeze your pie either baked or unbaked. For unbaked pies, wrap well and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge and then proceed with baking. Baked pies freeze best when wrapped tightly and consumed within a month for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes to warm through and refresh the crust’s crispness. Avoid the microwave to keep the crust flaky, and always add your ice cream just before serving for that iconic à la mode experience.

FAQs

Can I use apples other than Granny Smith and Honeycrisp?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp offer the perfect mix of tartness and sweetness, other firm apples like Fuji, Braeburn, or Jonathan can work wonderfully. Just aim for apples that hold their shape when baked.

Is there a way to make the crust gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that’s designed for baking. You may need to adjust the amount of water slightly to get the right dough consistency, but many bakers have great success creating delicious gluten-free versions of this Classic Apple Pie à la Mode Recipe.

Can I prepare the pie dough in advance?

Definitely! The dough can be made up to 2 days ahead and kept wrapped in the fridge. This actually helps the dough relax and develop flavor. Just bring it to room temperature for about 10 minutes before rolling it out.

What’s the best way to peel and slice apples quickly?

A good-quality vegetable peeler will speed up peeling, and using a sharp knife or apple slicer makes thin, uniform slices easy. Keeping the slices even ensures they cook thoroughly and evenly for a consistent texture throughout your pie.

Can I make this pie vegan?

To make a vegan version, swap butter for a vegan margarine or coconut oil in the crust and filling, use non-dairy milk for the egg wash substitute (like a mix of almond milk and maple syrup), and serve with dairy-free vanilla ice cream. It’s a delicious way to enjoy this Classic Apple Pie à la Mode Recipe without animal products.

Final Thoughts

This Classic Apple Pie à la Mode Recipe is more than just dessert; it’s a celebration of tradition, warmth, and the simple joy of homemade baking. Every step, from mixing the buttery crust to tossing the spiced apples, brings a little bit of magic to your kitchen. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself and share that wonderful moment when a spoonful of warm pie meets cool ice cream. You’re going to love it as much as I do.

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