Apple Pie Recipe with Buttery Lattice Crust makes 8 servings with 30 min prep, 55 min baking, 145 min total. Juicy apples, rich butter crust, cinnamon aroma, golden lattice finish — classic dessert, flaky texture, slices hold shape, perfect for holidays and cozy days.
Perfect Homemade Apple Pie for Cozy Family Moments
A buttery lattice crust and tender apple filling everyone adores
Apple pie instantly evokes comfort — the aroma of tender cinnamon-spiced apples, the flaky buttery lattice crust that shatters softly under a fork, and that warm nostalgia of family gatherings. This apple pie recipe with buttery lattice crust focuses on balance: naturally sweet apples with a hint of tartness, a crust that stays crisp yet delicate, and a glossy finish that turns a classic dessert into a celebration. The structure of the lattice isn’t just decorative — it helps moisture escape so the filling thickens into a luscious texture instead of becoming runny.
Creating the perfect homemade apple pie depends on choosing a mix of firm apples that hold their structure during baking. A touch of acid lifts the flavor, while spices wrap everything in warmth. The fat-rich dough layers melt beautifully, creating those sought-after flaky pockets. When baked properly, each slice offers clean layers: juicy apples, tender crumb, and golden pastry that tastes impossibly rich.
A touch of culinary history
Apple pie holds iconic status around the world, especially in North America, where the phrase “as American as apple pie” symbolizes comfort and tradition. Yet its roots reach deep into European history — centuries ago, bakers wrapped apples in pastry to preserve seasonal fruit for longer. Over time, the lattice pie crust emerged as a method to showcase the beauty of the filling and ensure ideal texture. Today, this timeless dessert bridges generations — from holiday tables to simple everyday pleasures.
Flavor Structure and Ingredient Roles
Each component has a specific purpose:
- Fresh apples provide sweetness, natural pectin, and juicy texture.
- Butter-rich dough creates a crisp and aromatic pastry.
- Sugar enhances caramelization and balances the tart fruit.
- Spices like cinnamon bring warmth and depth.
- Thickening agents ensure the filling sets perfectly once cooled.
Small adjustments — such as apple varieties or spice intensities — allow you to reshape the personality of your pie without losing authenticity.
We also offer more recipes for this timeless dessert in other languages. Explore these delicious variations:
Traditional Apple Pie Recipe
Easy Keto Apple Pie – Low-Carb, Sugar-Free & Delicious!
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Comforting dessert that never goes out of style
- Flaky, buttery crust with professional bakery texture
- Juicy apple filling that sets beautifully
- Stunning lattice topping for an impressive finish
- Perfect for holidays, weekends, and nostalgic moments
- Works with many apple varieties
- Easy to bake ahead for hosting
Storage and Make-Ahead Guidance
A buttery apple pie maintains its structure and flavor wonderfully after baking. Cool the pie fully so the filling sets. Keep loosely covered at room temperature for short-term enjoyment, or refrigerate to extend freshness. The crust retains crispness better when reheated at a gentle temperature before serving. Preparing the pastry in advance saves time — the dough benefits from chilling, developing stronger gluten-free layers of flakiness. The assembled pie can be pre-made and stored chilled, then baked when needed for fresh-from-the-oven brilliance. Leftovers reheat beautifully, restoring the tender crumb and lively aroma.
Apples & Heritage — A Flavor Journey
This recipe celebrates the distinct personality that apples bring to dessert. Their natural acidity prevents the sweetness from becoming heavy, while spices enhance the fruit’s character rather than overpowering it. With a golden lattice crust revealing glossy filling beneath, each bake becomes a small tribute to tradition — a dessert rooted in history yet forever welcome on today’s tables.
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- Prepare the dough:
Combine 2.5 cups (300 g) flour, 1 tsp (5 g) salt, and 2 tbsp (25 g) sugar in a bowl. Add 1 cup (225 g) cold butter and cut it in until pea-sized crumbs form. Add 6 tbsp (90 ml) ice water gradually and mix until a dough forms. Divide into 2 discs, wrap, and chill 60 minutes. - Roll the bottom crust:
On a floured surface, roll one disc to ⅛ inch (3 mm) thickness. Fit into a 9-inch (23 cm) pie dish. Trim excess, keep chilled. - Make the filling:
Place 6 sliced apples (2.5 lbs / 1.1 kg) in a bowl with ¾ cup (150 g) sugar, 2 tbsp (30 ml) lemon juice, 1 tsp (3 g) cinnamon, ¼ tsp (1 g) nutmeg, and 3 tbsp (25 g) cornstarch. Toss until evenly coated. Let stand 10 minutes until juices thicken slightly. - Assemble the pie:
Fill the crust evenly with the apple mixture, arranging slices to remove large gaps. - Create the lattice crust:
Roll the second dough disc to ⅛ inch (3 mm). Cut 1-inch (2.5 cm) strips and weave over the filling to form a lattice. Press edges to seal and trim. - Egg wash:
Mix 1 beaten egg (50 g) with 1 tbsp (15 ml) milk. Brush lattice and edges for shine and browning. - Bake:
Place pie on the lower oven rack. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes. Reduce to 375°F (190°C) and bake 35 minutes more until the crust is golden brown and filling bubbles through lattice vents. - Cool:
Cool at least 2 hours so filling sets and slices hold shape.
FAQ questionCan I use different apples for apple pie?
Yes, mixing sweet and tart apples gives the best flavor and bite. Firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn keep structure, preventing a mushy filling. Avoid soft apples like Red Delicious, which break down too much during baking.
FAQ questionHow do I keep the bottom crust from getting soggy?
Bake on the lower oven rack and ensure the filling has enough thickener like cornstarch. A well-chilled crust, adequate venting from the lattice, and preheating the oven ensure the pastry crisps while the juices thicken properly.
FAQ questionWhat can I use instead of butter in the crust?
Use plant-based butter blocks for dairy-free results. Look for products with higher fat content for similar flakiness. Avoid spreads that contain too much water — they can make the crust tough and less flavorful.
FAQ questionCan I make apple pie ahead of time?
Yes, fully baked pie stores well. Keep covered at room temperature for 1–2 days or refrigerate up to 4 days. Reheat at low temperature to restore crispness. Assembling and chilling the unbaked pie is also great for baking fresh later.
FAQ questionHow do I freeze apple pie?
Freeze unbaked pie for best texture. Wrap tightly in plastic and foil, freeze up to 3 months, then bake directly from frozen, adding a few minutes. Baked pie can also be frozen, but the crust may soften slightly when thawed.
FAQ questionHow can I prevent the crust from shrinking or cracking?
Keep dough cold, avoid over-working it, and chill the assembled pie before baking. Butter must stay firm so steam creates flaky layers instead of melting early and causing collapse.
FAQ questionIs apple pie suitable for gluten-free or vegan diets?
Yes, with substitutions. Use gluten-free pastry flour for structure and vegan butter for the crust. For a vegan wash, brush with non-dairy milk only. The apples and spices are naturally vegan and gluten-free, so the texture remains very close to the classic version.
We’ve baked and refined this apple pie countless times to achieve the ideal flaky crust and tender filling; we share the same techniques used in our pastry kitchen.
PEKIS – professional chef and recipe developer with over 25 years of experience, specialized in European and international cuisine.
Apple Pie Recipe with Buttery Lattice Crust – Flavor and Experience
A classic dessert elevated with a buttery flaky crust and a glossy lattice finish that releases steam for perfect texture. Each slice balances sweet and tart apples, gentle cinnamon warmth, and a filling that sets cleanly after cooling. This Apple Pie Recipe with Buttery Lattice Crust is crafted for predictable results: crisp base, well-structured fruit layers, and rich aroma from real butter. Home bakers of every skill level can achieve a pastry-shop look while keeping the method simple and repeatable.
Preparation stays approachable with only essential ingredients and clear steps. The dough chills for flakiness, the assembly is guided for a confident lattice, and baking time ensures golden color and bubbling filling. The pie cools into sturdy slices — ideal for easy serving at any table.
Practical and Adaptable Dessert
Fresh, everyday ingredients transform into a centerpiece dessert with minimal effort. Substitutions such as gluten-free pastry flour or plant-based butter make this pie accessible for different dietary needs. Apple variations encourage personalization — sweeter blends for kids, tangier combinations for adults.
Storage and reheating keep quality high: this homemade apple pie remains delicious for several days and reheats into crisp, warm comfort. Suitable for preparing ahead, freezing, or baking fresh on the day of serving.
Perfect for Gatherings and Celebrations
A dessert that feels familiar yet impressive — the lattice crust adds elegance without complicated techniques. Serve with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or simply warm from the oven. Holidays, birthdays, weekend dinners, or baking with family all become more memorable with a pie cooling on the counter.
The Apple Pie Recipe with Buttery Lattice Crust stands out for its balanced flavor, beautiful presentation, and reliable results. A true comfort bake, best enjoyed when you want a dessert that brings people together — nostalgic, aromatic, and always a favorite.
Allergens
- Gluten (wheat flour)
- Dairy (butter, milk)
- Egg
Substitution tips
- For gluten-free: Replace flour with certified gluten-free pastry flour blend (same quantity).
- For dairy-free: Substitute butter with plant-based vegan block butter (same quantity).
- For egg-free: Brush crust with dairy-free milk only (omit egg wash).
Vitamins & minerals (per serving)
- Vitamin C: 5 mg
• Supports immune system - Vitamin A: 60 IU
• Contributes to vision health - Potassium: 180 mg
• Helps maintain normal fluid balance - Calcium: 20 mg
• Supports bones and teeth - Iron: 1 mg
• Contributes to normal oxygen transport
Antioxidants (per serving)
- Polyphenols: 60 mg
• Help reduce oxidative stress - Flavonoids: 25 mg
• Support heart and cellular health
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