# Best Apple Pie Recipe Scratch: The Ultimate Guide to Homemade Perfection

When it comes to desserts, few things can rival the warm, comforting embrace of a freshly baked apple pie. If you're searching for the best apple pie recipe……

When it comes to desserts, few things can rival the warm, comforting embrace of a freshly baked apple pie. If you're searching for the best apple pie recipe scratch, you've arrived at the right place. This guide will not only provide you with an exceptional recipe but also tips and tricks to elevate your baking skills.

### Why Choose Scratch-Baked Apple Pie?

Baking from scratch allows you to control every ingredient that goes into your pie, ensuring freshness and quality. Store-bought pies often contain preservatives and artificial flavors, while a homemade pie will burst with natural flavors and wholesome goodness. Additionally, the aromatic experience of baking your own pie fills your kitchen with a delightful scent that pre-packaged alternatives simply can't replicate.

### Ingredients for the Best Apple Pie Recipe Scratch

To create the best apple pie recipe scratch, you'll need the following ingredients:

#### For the Pie Crust:

- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1 teaspoon sugar

- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

- 6-8 tablespoons ice water

#### For the Filling:

- 6-8 medium apples (a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works well)

- ¾ cup sugar (adjust to taste)

- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

- 1 tablespoon lemon juice

- 1 tablespoon butter, diced

### Step-by-Step Instructions

#### Making the Pie Crust

1. **Combine Dry Ingredients**: In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar.

2. **Cut in Butter**: Add the chilled, cubed butter to the flour mixture. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. **Add Ice Water**: Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Do not overwork it.

4. **Chill the Dough**: Divide the dough in half, shape it into discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour.

#### Preparing the Apple Filling

1. **Peel and Slice Apples**: Peel, core, and slice your apples. Aim for uniform thickness to ensure even cooking.

2. **Mix Filling Ingredients**: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are well-coated.

#### Assembling the Pie

1. **Preheat Oven**: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. **Roll Out Dough**: On a floured surface, roll out one disc of dough into a circle large enough to fit your pie dish. Place it in the dish and trim the edges.

3. **Add Filling**: Pour the apple mixture into the crust, making sure to distribute it evenly. Dot with small pieces of butter.

4. **Top Crust**: Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Seal the edges by crimping with your fingers or a fork. Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.

5. **Bake**: Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

### Tips for the Perfect Apple Pie

- **Choose the Right Apples**: A mix of tart and sweet apples provides a complex flavor that enhances the overall taste of your pie.

- **Let it Cool**: Allow your pie to cool for at least two hours before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes for cleaner slices.

- **Serve Warm**: For an indulgent experience, serve your pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top.

### Conclusion

Creating the best apple pie recipe scratch is not just about following a recipe; it’s about the love and care you put into each step. From selecting the freshest ingredients to the aroma that fills your home, baking an apple pie from scratch is a rewarding experience that will delight your family and friends. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to bake a pie that will become a cherished family tradition!