Deep Dish Apple Pie Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm slice of apple pie, especially when it’s served in a deep dish style that offers a generous helping of sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples enveloped in a flaky crust. This Deep Dish Apple Pie Recipe is perfect for gathering friends and family around the table, celebrating special occasions, or simply indulging in a nostalgic dessert that brings back fond memories. With a delightful blend of Granny Smith apples and a buttery, cream cheese-infused crust, this pie is a twist on the classic that you’ll want to make again and again.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Deep Dish Apple Pie is not only visually stunning but packed with flavors that make it irresistible. Here are a few things that make this recipe stand out:

• Generously Stuffed: With 9 cups of Granny Smith apples, each slice is filled with juicy, tart goodness.
• Perfectly Spiced: A hint of cinnamon and lemon juice brings out the natural sweetness of the apples.
• Rich and Flaky Crust: The cream cheese in the crust creates a tender, flaky texture that perfectly complements the filling.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the spices and sweetness to match your taste preferences.

Gather These Ingredients

Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need to create this delectable Deep Dish Apple Pie. Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the Filling:
  • 9 cups (3 lbs) Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced 1/4-inch thick
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/8 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces for the top
• For the Crust:
  • 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 12 tablespoons COLD unsalted butter
  • 6 ounces COLD cream cheese
  • 3 tablespoons cold heavy whipping cream
  • 2 teaspoons sugar
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Equipment Breakdown

To make your baking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the following equipment:

• Deep Dish Pie Pan: A 9-inch or 10-inch deep dish pie pan is ideal for this recipe.
• Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a few mixing bowls for combining the filling and crust ingredients.
• Rolling Pin: Essential for rolling out the pie crust.
• Sharp Knife: For slicing apples and cutting butter.
• Pastry Cutter or Fork: To mix the butter and flour for the crust.

How to Prepare Deep Dish Apple Pie Recipe

Follow these simple steps to create your own Deep Dish Apple Pie:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced Granny Smith apples, sugar, flour, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, and salt. Toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated. Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the juices to release.

Step 2: Make the Crust

In another bowl, mix the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold unsalted butter and cold cream cheese using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the cold heavy whipping cream and mix until just combined.

Step 3: Roll Out the Crust

Divide the dough in half and shape each half into a disc. Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Once chilled, roll out one disc on a floured surface to fit your pie pan, making sure it hangs over the edges.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Pour the apple filling into the prepared crust, ensuring an even distribution. Dot the top with small pieces of butter. Roll out the second disc of dough and place it over the filling. Crimp the edges to seal and cut a few slits on top for steam to escape.

Step 5: Bake

Sprinkle the top crust with a mixture of sugar and ground cinnamon. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least an hour before slicing. This will help the filling set up nicely. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for the ultimate treat.

Tailor It to Your Diet

This recipe is versatile, allowing you to make adjustments based on dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Lower Sugar: Use a sugar substitute or reduce the amount of sugar in the filling.
• Vegan: Replace butter with vegan butter and use plant-based cream cheese in the crust.
• Spice It Up: Add nutmeg or ginger for an extra layer of flavor.

Behind-the-Scenes Notes

Creating the perfect Deep Dish Apple Pie is all about the details. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Using Granny Smith apples is key due to their tartness, which balances the sweetness of the pie.
• Don’t skip the chilling step for the dough—it’s essential for a flaky crust.
• Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties for a unique flavor profile.
• Cover the edges of the pie with aluminum foil if they brown too quickly during baking.

Best Ways to Store

To ensure your Deep Dish Apple Pie stays fresh, follow these storage tips:

• Store leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container, for up to 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, freeze the pie before baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and it can last up to 3 months.
• If freezing, bake straight from frozen, adding an additional 15-20 minutes to the baking time.

FAQ

Can I use other types of apples in this pie?

Yes! While Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tart flavor, you can mix them with other varieties such as Honeycrisp or Fuji for a sweeter taste.

Why is my pie crust tough?

A tough crust usually results from overworking the dough. Mix just until combined and handle it as little as possible.

Can I make the pie ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pie a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving for the best experience.

What should I serve with Deep Dish Apple Pie?

This pie pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel for extra indulgence.

Try These Next

• Caramel Apple Pie
• Vegan Pumpkin Pie
• Classic Pumpkin Pie
• Blueberry Pie

In Closing

This Deep Dish Apple Pie Recipe is a delightful way to celebrate the flavors of fall, family gatherings, or simply the joy of baking. The combination of tart apples, warm spices, and a flaky, rich crust creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist. Whether enjoyed warm or cold, this pie is sure to become a cherished favorite in your household. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the baking begin!