If you’re craving a baking project that delivers that perfect slice of homey comfort, look no further than this Deep Dish Apple Pie Recipe. Imagine tender, tart Granny Smith apples wrapped in a flaky, buttery crust that’s rich with cream cheese and just the right hint of cinnamon—a classic dessert that never fails to warm the heart and delight the senses. Whether it’s a family gathering, holiday treat, or a cozy weekend indulgence, this Deep Dish Apple Pie Recipe brings that nostalgic aroma and unforgettable flavor right to your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Deep Dish Apple Pie Recipe is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture, from the crispness of the apples to the richness of the pastry. Simple and essential, these ingredients come together to create a pie that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
- Granny Smith apples: 9 cups (3 lbs), peeled, cored and sliced 1/4-inch thick for the perfect balance of tartness and firmness.
- Sugar: 3/4 cup to sweeten the filling just right without overpowering the apple’s natural flavors.
- All-purpose flour: 1/3 cup for thickening the filling, and 2 1/4 cups to craft the flaky crust that holds everything together.
- Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons to brighten the apple flavor and prevent browning.
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon ground in the filling plus a 1/4 teaspoon for the crust for that classic warming spice.
- Salt: A pinch in the filling and 1/2 teaspoon in the crust to enhance all the flavors.
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons cut into small pieces for dotting the filling, and 12 tablespoons cold for the crust to create that incredible flakiness.
- Cream cheese: 6 ounces cold, blended into the crust for richness and an irresistible texture.
- Heavy whipping cream: 3 tablespoons cold to bring the dough together tenderly and add a subtle silkiness.
- Sugar and cinnamon topping: 2 teaspoons sugar and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon sprinkled on top for a perfect finishing touch.
How to Make Deep Dish Apple Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by combining the 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour with sugar and salt in a mixing bowl. Cut the cold unsalted butter and cold cream cheese into the flour mixture using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until it forms coarse crumbs. This method ensures the crust will be tender and flaky with just the right amount of richness. Slowly add the 3 tablespoons of cold heavy whipping cream, mixing gently just until the dough begins to come together. Avoid overworking it to keep the crust light. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, toss the sliced Granny Smith apples with sugar, 1/3 cup flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt. The sugar and flour will help thicken the juices released during baking, while the lemon juice prevents the apples from browning and enhances their tang. This simple combination is what gives the filling that perfect balance of tart, sweet, and warmly spiced flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Roll out two-thirds of your chilled dough on a lightly floured surface into a circle big enough to fit into a 9-inch deep dish pie plate. Press the dough into the dish, making sure to line the bottom and sides evenly. Pour in the apple filling, then dot with the 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter for that luscious richness that melts through the filling. Roll out the remaining dough for the top crust. You can create a classic solid lid, a lattice, or even decorative cutouts—get creative! Seal the edges by pinching and crimping them together to trap in all the juicy goodness. Brush the top with a light coating of cream or milk, then sprinkle with the sugar and cinnamon topping.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips, and bake for about 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the vents or lattice. If the edges brown too quickly, shield them with foil halfway through baking. Let the pie cool for at least an hour before slicing to allow the filling to set perfectly.
How to Serve Deep Dish Apple Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A scoop of vanilla ice cream melting over a warm slice is a classic for good reason—the creamy coolness perfectly contrasts with the spiced apples and buttery crust. Alternatively, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce adds indulgence and extra flavor layers that elevate this dessert to something truly special.
Side Dishes
Pair your Deep Dish Apple Pie Recipe with a hot cup of spiced tea or fresh brewed coffee to balance the sweetness and keep things cozy. For a more substantial treat, serve alongside sharp cheddar cheese slices—a traditional pairing that adds a surprising savory note to every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the pie in individual mini deep dish pans for personalized portions that look charming and inviting. You can also cut stars or hearts from leftover crust scraps to decorate the top crust before baking, adding a festive flair that sparks delight for family and guests. For evening gatherings, serve slices on elegant plates with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a cinnamon stick garnish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days, allowing you to enjoy that comforting Deep Dish Apple Pie Recipe flavor any time without baking again.
Freezing
This pie also freezes beautifully. For best results, wrap it securely in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or serving at room temperature to preserve its texture and taste.
Reheating
To reheat, place slices in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave briefly on medium power. This brings back that fresh-baked feeling, especially when paired with a little vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple for this Deep Dish Apple Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness and firmness, you can mix in varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for a slightly sweeter and juicier filling. Just keep the texture firm so the pie holds up well during baking.
Is there a way to make the crust vegan for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the unsalted butter and cream cheese with plant-based alternatives like vegan butter and vegan cream cheese. Also, replace the heavy cream with a non-dairy milk such as almond or oat milk to keep the crust tender and flaky.
What’s the best way to prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Blind baking the bottom crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling helps keep it crisp. Also, make sure to toss the apples with flour to absorb excess liquid, and don’t forget to chill the dough well. These steps are key to maintaining a flaky, non-soggy crust.
Can I prepare the pie dough ahead of time?
Definitely! The dough can be made up to two days in advance and kept refrigerated, or frozen for up to a month. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before rolling and assembling the pie.
How can I tell when the Deep Dish Apple Pie Recipe is fully baked?
Look for a golden-brown crust and bubbling filling that often peeks through the crust edges or vents. If needed, use a toothpick to check the filling; if it comes out coated with thick, cooked juice rather than raw liquid, your pie is perfectly baked.
Final Thoughts
This Deep Dish Apple Pie Recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that embody the warmth and joy of home baking. The combination of tart apples, tender crust, and sweet spices creates a slice of happiness worth savoring. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself and make it a cherished staple in your kitchen. Happy baking and even happier eating!
