As the sweet aroma of cinnamon and warm apples wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia, something incredibly cozy about homemade Apple Pie à la Mode. This classic dessert is not just a treat; it’s a celebration of simple comforts and a warm invitation to gather around the table. With its flaky crust and luscious filling, this pie brings two irresistible perks—quick prep for busy evenings and the joy of impressing loved ones with your baking skills. Plus, who can resist a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melting beside it? Ready to fill your home with delightful scents and create memories? Let’s dive into the world of baking this beloved dessert together!
Why is Apple Pie à la Mode Irresistible?
Warm, Comforting Aroma: The delightful blend of cinnamon and sugar fills your kitchen with the nostalgic scent of sweet memories.
Perfectly Balanced Flavors: Tart apples combined with rich brown sugar create a sweet filling with just the right amount of zing.
Effortless Elegance: This recipe is easy to master, making it ideal for beginner bakers or seasoned pros looking for a delightful twist on a classic.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this pie is sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s cravings.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm on its own, or with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for that extra touch of indulgence. Don’t forget to explore some tips for perfecting homemade crusts too!
Apple Pie à la Mode Ingredients
• Create the perfect pie with these essential ingredients!
For the Pie Crust
- All-purpose flour – A staple for a flaky and tender crust that forms the perfect base for your pie.
- Granulated sugar – Just a touch enhances the flavor, making your crust just a bit sweeter.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness and elevates the overall flavor of the crust.
- Unsalted butter – Cold and cubed butter creates that delightful, flaky texture we all love.
For the Apple Filling
- Unsalted butter – Use this melting butter to tenderize the apples and create a rich base.
- Apples – Choose a tart variety, like Granny Smith, for a deliciously balanced filling!
- Brown sugar – Adds caramel notes and depth to the overall flavor of the filling.
- Cinnamon – A classic spice that brings warmth and a nostalgic aroma to your apple pie.
- Salt – Just a pinch enhances the sweetness of the apples and balances the flavors.
- Cornstarch – Helps thicken the filling, giving it the perfect consistency without being runny.
- Cold water – A small amount to help bind the filling together while cooking.
For the Topping
- Egg – Creates a beautiful golden crust when brushed on the top before baking.
- Water – Blends with the egg to form your egg wash, helping it adhere beautifully.
- Brown sugar – A sprinkle on top before baking adds a caramelized crunch to your pie.
- Almond flour – Sprinkling this on the bottom prevents the crust from getting soggy.
For Serving
- Vanilla ice cream – The perfect finishing touch that melts deliciously over your warm slice of pie.
Indulge in this classic Apple Pie à la Mode for an unforgettable dessert experience!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Apple Pie à la Mode
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter, and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Form it into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to chill.
Step 2: Cook the Apple Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 75 g of unsalted butter. Add the sliced apples, followed by the brown sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, and a quarter teaspoon of salt. Stir in 2.5 tablespoons of cold water, and cook for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and fragrant. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
Step 3: Preheat and Roll the Dough
Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). On a floured surface, roll out half of your chilled dough into a circle large enough to fit your pie dish. Carefully transfer this rolled-out dough into the pie dish, trimming off any excess. To prevent a soggy bottom, sprinkle a thin layer of almond flour evenly across the bottom of the crust.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Pour the cooled apple filling into the prepared crust, evenly distributing the apples for balanced bites. Roll out the remaining dough, cutting it into strips for a lattice top, or simply cover it with another full crust. Press and crimp the edges to seal tightly, ensuring no filling leaks. Brush the top generously with an egg wash made from one egg mixed with a tablespoon of water, and sprinkle with brown sugar for a delightful caramelized finish.
Step 5: Bake the Pie
Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes. Look for a golden-brown crust and bubbling filling, which indicate that it’s perfectly baked. Once done, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to set.
Step 6: Serve with Ice Cream
Once the Apple Pie à la Mode has cooled, slice it into generous portions and serve each slice warm, topped with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. As the ice cream melts into the warm pie, the combination creates an irresistible treat that's sure to delight everyone at your table.
Apple Pie à la Mode Variations
Feel free to get creative with this classic treat and make it your own!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make a delicious pie for everyone.
- Sugar-Free: Use a sugar replacement like erythritol or stevia for a low-calorie twist that keeps the sweetness intact.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg and a dash of cloves to the filling for a warm, spiced flavor that will surprise your taste buds.
- Nutty Crust: Incorporate finely ground nuts like pecans or walnuts into the crust for an added crunch and rich flavor.
- Fruity Variations: Mix in other fruits like pears or cranberries for a refreshing, tangy filling that complements the apples beautifully.
- Caramel Drizzle: Melt some caramel sauce to drizzle over the warm pie before serving—this indulgent addition elevates your dessert experience!
- Over-the-Top Indulgence: Top each serving with whipped cream or even a chocolate drizzle for an extra decadence that chocolate lovers adore.
- Chilled Delight: Freeze the pie before baking for a refreshing summer treat; bake it directly from the freezer for a delightful surprise!
Explore these variations and make your homemade Apple Pie à la Mode a true reflection of your taste! Don't forget to check out my tips for perfecting homemade crusts or explore delicious serving suggestions like drizzling warm caramel sauce for that extra sweetness!
How to Store and Freeze Apple Pie à la Mode
Room Temperature: Allow apple pie to cool completely, then cover it loosely with foil or wax paper. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Fridge: For longer freshness, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled apple pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat your apple pie à la mode in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15–20 minutes or until warmed through, then serve with a scoop of ice cream!
Make Ahead Options
These Apple Pie à la Mode are perfect for busy home cooks who want to streamline their dessert preparations! You can prepare the pie crust up to 3 days in advance by rolling it out, wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerating it. Additionally, the apple filling can be made a day ahead—just keep it in an airtight container in the fridge to preserve its freshness. When you're ready to serve, simply assemble the pie as directed, brush the top with egg wash, and bake. This way, you'll enjoy the deliciousness of homemade pie without the last-minute rush, allowing you to savor every moment with your loved ones!
What to Serve with Apple Pie à la Mode
An evening filled with the enchanting aroma of freshly baked pie invites us to explore the delightful accompaniments that elevate our dessert experience.
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Cinnamon Sugar Donuts: These warm, fluffy treats echo the pie's cinnamon notes, adding an extra layer of sweetness and nostalgia.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm slices of pie with caramel sauce enhances the indulgence, creating a gooey, luxurious texture that melds beautifully with the ice cream.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream creates a lovely contrast to the warm, spiced apples while adding visual allure.
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Coffee or Tea: A steaming cup of coffee or herbal tea balances the sweetness of the pie and complements its warm spices. The warmth will cradle your senses and create perfect harmony.
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Vanilla Pudding: This creamy side offers a smooth, velvety texture that pairs wonderfully with the crisp crust and warm filling, creating delightful contrasts in every bite.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can cleanse your palate between bites, enhancing the comfort of the pie with bright, vibrant flavors.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp and creamy cheeses provides a sophisticated contrast to the sweetness of the pie, inviting a culinary exploration of flavors.
With these delightful pairings, your Apple Pie à la Mode transforms from a simple dessert into an unforgettable culinary celebration!
Helpful Tricks for Apple Pie à la Mode
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Chill Your Dough: Refrigerating the dough for at least 30 minutes helps achieve that flaky texture by keeping the butter cold during baking.
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Layer the Apples: For a well-balanced filling, layer the sliced apples evenly. Mixing different apple varieties, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, adds depth and flavor to your apple pie à la mode.
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Avoid Soggy Crust: Sprinkling almond flour on the bottom of your pie crust before adding the filling helps absorb moisture, preventing a soggy bottom.
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Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your pie as it bakes. A golden-brown crust indicates it’s ready, while bubbly filling means those delicious juices are at the perfect consistency.
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Let it Cool: Allowing the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing ensures that the filling sets properly, giving you perfect slices to serve!
Apple Pie à la Mode Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right apples for my pie?
Absolutely! For a perfectly balanced flavor, I recommend using a combination of tart apples, like Granny Smith, for that zing, and sweeter varieties, such as Honeycrisp or Fuji, which add a pleasant sweetness. Aim for about 5 to 6 apples, peeled, cored, and sliced to get a delightful mix!
What’s the best way to store leftover apple pie?
Very! After letting your apple pie cool completely, cover it loosely with foil or wax paper to keep it fresh at room temperature for about 2 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it for up to 5 days—just warm up slices in the microwave for a few seconds before enjoying!
Can I freeze apple pie à la mode, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze your apple pie, first ensure it’s completely cooled. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and cover it with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can stay frozen for up to 3 months! When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 15–20 minutes.
What should I do if my pie crust is too soggy?
Oh no! If you find that your pie crust is soggy, it may be due to excess moisture from the apple filling. To prevent this, always sprinkle almond flour (or even a bit of cornstarch) on the bottom crust before adding the filling. Also, ensure the apples are not overly juicy before cooking. If you’ve already baked the pie and it's soggy, consider reheating it in the oven to help some moisture evaporate!
Is apple pie à la mode safe for pets?
Great question! While our delicious apple pie à la mode seems tempting for pets, it's best to keep it away from them. Ingredients like sugar and butter are not healthy for animals. If your furry friend is eyeing your dessert, consider giving them a small slice of plain apple without the skin as a treat instead!
Irresistible Apple Pie à la Mode: A Cozy Dessert Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter, and use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until the dough comes together. Form it into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to chill.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 75 g of unsalted butter. Add the sliced apples, followed by the brown sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, and a quarter teaspoon of salt. Stir in 2.5 tablespoons of cold water, and cook for about 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and fragrant. Remove from heat and let the filling cool.
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). On a floured surface, roll out half of your chilled dough into a circle large enough to fit your pie dish. Carefully transfer this rolled-out dough into the pie dish, trimming off any excess. To prevent a soggy bottom, sprinkle a thin layer of almond flour evenly across the bottom of the crust.
- Pour the cooled apple filling into the prepared crust, evenly distributing the apples for balanced bites. Roll out the remaining dough, cutting it into strips for a lattice top, or simply cover it with another full crust. Press and crimp the edges to seal tightly, ensuring no filling leaks. Brush the top generously with an egg wash made from one egg mixed with a tablespoon of water, and sprinkle with brown sugar for a delightful caramelized finish.
- Place the assembled pie in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes. Look for a golden-brown crust and bubbling filling, which indicate that it’s perfectly baked. Once done, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow the juices to set.
- Once the Apple Pie à la Mode has cooled, slice it into generous portions and serve each slice warm, topped with a generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream. As the ice cream melts into the warm pie, the combination creates an irresistible treat that's sure to delight everyone at your table.
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