1-First Step: Prepare the Pie Crust: Start by making your two disks of all-butter homemade pie crust and chilling them in the refrigerator for at least an hour. This ensures a flaky texture, and for gluten-free options, swap in a gluten-free flour blend to keep it adaptable. Once chilled, you’re ready to roll it out for your apple tart.

2-Second Step: Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425˚F and position the rack in the center to promote even baking. If you’re aiming for a lower-calorie version, prepare your ingredients in advance to streamline the process. This step helps achieve that golden crust on your homemade apple dessert.

3-Third Step: Make the Sauce: Melt 8 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat, then whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1 minute. Add 1/4 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar, bringing the mixture to a boil. For vegan adaptations, use plant-based butter here to maintain the sauce’s consistency in your classic apple pie.

4-Fourth Step: Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the 2 1/4 pounds of Granny Smith apples to about 1/4 inch thick, which gives about 7 cups. Sprinkle with 1 1/2 teaspoons of cinnamon and toss to combine, then pour the sauce over the apples and stir to coat evenly. If you’re making a lower-sugar fruit pie, reduce the sugar amount based on the apples’ sweetness for a healthier twist.

5-Fifth Step: Assemble the Pie: Roll out one disk of pie crust to a 12-inch diameter and place it in a pie pan. Add the apple filling, mounding it in the center while keeping the edges clear to prevent sogginess. For a spiced apple dessert variation, consider adding extra cinnamon if desired to enhance flavors.

6-Sixth Step: Create the Lattice Top: Roll the second disk into an 11-inch circle and cut it into 10 strips, then weave them into a lattice top over the filling. Crimp the edges to seal and brush with the egg wash made from 1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water. If going vegan, use a flax egg mixture instead for that shiny finish on your apple pie.

7-Final Step: Bake and Cool: Bake at 425˚F for 15 minutes, then reduce to 350˚F and bake for another 45 minutes until the filling bubbles. Let the pie cool at room temperature for 1 hour before serving to allow the juices to set. This step works well for all variations, including gluten-free, helping your homemade apple pie slice neatly. For added inspiration, check out our apple spice crumb muffins recipe for more apple baking ideas.