Easy Apple Pie Recipe

This simple apple pie combines the comforting flavors of apples, butter, and vanilla, topped with a glossy finish of peach or apricot jam. With a soft, moist cake-like base, it’s perfect for any occasion and easy to make with basic ingredients.

Preparation Time
Total time: 1 hour
Prep time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes

Ingredients

For the Pie:

  • 3 large eggs
  • 150 grams (6 tablespoons) sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 100 grams (7 tablespoons) butter, melted
  • 100 grams (4.5 tablespoons) yogurt
  • 240 grams (1.5 cups + 1 tablespoon) all-purpose flour
  • 10 grams (2 teaspoons) baking powder
  • 5 apples, peeled and cut into large pieces
  • Lemon juice (to prevent apple browning)

For Decoration:

  • Peach or apricot jam (for brushing)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Apples

  1. Peel and cut 4 apples into large pieces.
  2. Sprinkle with lemon juice to prevent browning and enhance the apple flavor.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

  1. In a large bowl, beat 3 eggs until well blended.
  2. Add 150 grams (6 tablespoons) sugar and 1 teaspoon vanilla. Continue beating until smooth.
  3. Pour in the melted butter and 100 grams (4.5 tablespoons) yogurt, mixing until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

  1. In a separate bowl, sift together 240 grams (1.5 cups + 1 tablespoon) flour and 10 grams (2 teaspoons) baking powder.
  2. Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring until you have a smooth, consistent batter.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

  1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (360°F).
  2. Grease a baking dish with butter or oil.
  3. Pour 2/3 of the batter into the prepared dish, spreading it evenly.
  4. Arrange the apple pieces on top of the batter, then pour the remaining batter over the apples.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

  1. Bake the apple pie in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until it is golden brown and risen.
  2. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean.

Step 6: Add the Finishing Touches

  1. While the pie is still warm, brush the top with peach or apricot jam to give it a shiny, sweet finish.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve the apple pie warm, paired with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent touch.
  • Enjoy as a dessert or a cozy afternoon treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This apple pie is quick to prepare, offering a perfect balance of tender apples, rich batter, and a touch of sweetness from the jam glaze. With minimal ingredients and simple steps, it’s a great go-to recipe for any baker.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use other types of fruit in place of apples?
Yes, you can substitute apples with pears, peaches, or plums for a different flavor. Adjust the lemon juice depending on the fruit to balance the sweetness.

2. Can I use a different type of jam for the glaze?
Absolutely! You can use any fruit jam you prefer, such as strawberry, raspberry, or apricot, to complement the flavors of the pie.

3. How should I store the apple pie?
Store your apple pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can reheat it in the oven to enjoy it warm again.

4. Can I freeze the apple pie?
Yes, you can freeze the baked apple pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven before serving.

5. Can I make the batter ahead of time?
It’s best to bake the pie right after preparing the batter. However, you can prepare the apple pieces in advance and store them in the fridge with lemon juice to prevent browning.

6. What type of apples should I use for this pie?
Tart apples like Granny Smith or a mix of sweet and tart varieties, such as Honeycrisp and Golden Delicious, work well for balancing the sweetness of the pie.

7. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet pie. However, reducing it too much may alter the texture of the batter.

8. Can I make this pie gluten-free?
You can try substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking. Make sure to check if additional binders like xanthan gum are needed.

9. What size baking dish should I use?
A 9-inch round or square baking dish works best for this recipe. If you’re using a different size, adjust the baking time accordingly and keep an eye on the doneness.

10. How do I know when the pie is done?
The pie is done when it turns golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You can also tap the top gently—it should feel firm and slightly springy.