Introduction

Apple Pie with Lattice Crust is a quintessential dessert that celebrates the flavors of crisp, sweet-tart apples, warm spices, and a buttery, flaky pastry. The lattice top not only looks stunning but allows steam to escape, ensuring a perfectly baked, golden pie with a tender, juicy filling. This pie is a symbol of comfort, tradition, and seasonal celebration, especially in fall when apples are at their peak.

What makes this apple pie special is the combination of perfectly spiced apple slices, a lightly sweetened filling, and a crisp, buttery crust that melts in your mouth. The lattice crust adds a touch of elegance, making it a perfect centerpiece for holidays, family gatherings, or special occasions.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it balances sweetness, tartness, and spice in a way that feels nostalgic and comforting. The lattice crust not only looks impressive but also lets the aroma of baked apples and cinnamon fill the kitchen. Each bite is a perfect harmony of tender apple slices, buttery pastry, and warm spices. It’s the kind of dessert that evokes cozy memories and smiles every time it’s served.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Classic Comfort Dessert: Celebrated in many cultures, perfect for autumn and holidays.
• Flaky & Buttery Crust: The lattice topping is visually stunning and adds texture.
• Perfectly Spiced Filling: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of lemon brighten the apples.
• Versatile: Can be served warm or cold, with ice cream, whipped cream, or on its own.
• Impressive Yet Accessible: Great for bakers of all skill levels.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 35 minutes
• Baking Time: 50–60 minutes
• Cooling Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Servings and Nutritional Info

• Servings: 8–10 slices
• Calories: Approximately 350–400 kcal per slice

Course & Cuisine

• Course: Dessert
• Cuisine: American / Classic European-Inspired

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust (Double Crust):

• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 6–8 tbsp ice water

For the Apple Filling:

• 6–7 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (to thicken filling)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For Finishing:

• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• 1 tbsp coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling on top)

Cooking Directions (Overview)

1. Prepare pie dough and chill.
2. Make apple filling.
3. Roll out bottom crust into pie pan.
4. Fill with apple mixture.
5. Create lattice top crust.
6. Apply egg wash and optional sugar.
7. Bake until crust is golden and apples are tender.
8. Cool slightly before serving.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare Pie Dough

1. In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice water, 1 tbsp at a time, mixing until dough comes together.
4. Divide dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare Apple Filling

1. Peel, core, and slice apples.
2. In a large bowl, combine sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and lemon juice.
3. Toss apple slices in mixture, then stir in vanilla extract. Set aside.

Step 3: Roll Out Bottom Crust

1. Roll out one disc of chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan.
2. Transfer to pan and trim edges, leaving about ½ inch overhang.

Step 4: Add Filling

1. Pour apple filling evenly into the pie crust.
2. Arrange apples slightly overlapping for an even layer.

Step 5: Create Lattice Top Crust

1. Roll out second dough disc.
2. Cut into ½–¾ inch strips using a knife or pastry cutter.
3. Lay strips over apples in a lattice pattern, alternating over and under.
4. Trim edges and crimp with bottom crust.

Step 6: Apply Egg Wash

1. Brush lattice and edges with beaten egg.
2. Sprinkle coarse sugar on top for sparkle and texture (optional).

Step 7: Bake the Pie

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake pie for 50–60 minutes until crust is golden and filling is bubbly.
3. Cover edges with foil if browning too quickly.
4. Cool on a wire rack for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Step 8: Serve

• Serve warm or at room temperature.
• Optional: Serve with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel sauce.

Recipe Tips

• Apple Variety: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for depth of flavor.
• Prevent Soggy Bottom: Pre-bake bottom crust for 5–7 minutes or sprinkle lightly with flour/cornstarch before adding filling.
• Uniform Slices: Slice apples evenly to ensure even baking.
• Check Crust: Cover edges with foil if browning too quickly.
• Storage: Store at room temperature for 1–2 days or refrigerate up to 4 days.

Variations

• Nutty Apple Pie: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans to filling for crunch.
• Caramel Apple Pie: Drizzle caramel sauce over apples before lattice top.
• Spiced Apple Pie: Add a pinch of allspice, cloves, or ginger for extra warmth.
• Mini Pies: Make individual pies using muffin tins or tart pans.
• Cheddar Crust: Add ¼ cup shredded sharp cheddar to crust for a savory twist.

Freezing & Storage

• Unbaked Pie: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 10–15 minutes to baking time.
• Baked Pie: Store covered at room temperature for 1–2 days or in refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm slices in oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes.

Special Equipment Needed

• 9-inch pie pan
• Rolling pin
• Knife or pastry cutter (for lattice)
• Mixing bowls
• Wire cooling rack
• Pastry brush for egg wash

FAQ

Q1: Can I use store-bought pie dough?
Yes, store-bought dough works perfectly and saves time.

Q2: Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, use plant-based butter for the crust and non-dairy milk for egg wash substitute (e.g., almond milk).

Q3: How can I prevent soggy bottom?
Pre-bake the crust slightly, sprinkle cornstarch or flour on bottom, or bake on a lower oven rack.

Q4: Can I prepare the pie ahead?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate before baking. Bake when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Apple Pie with Lattice Crust is a classic dessert that combines the sweetness of tender apples, warm spices, and a buttery, flaky crust into an impressive and comforting treat. The lattice crust adds elegance and allows the filling to bubble beautifully, while the spiced apple filling makes every bite deliciously nostalgic. Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or anytime you want a comforting homemade dessert.