How to Make Apple Pie with Lattice Crust Perfectly

If you’re craving a timeless dessert that combines flaky, buttery crust with tender, cinnamon-kissed apples, then this Apple Pie with Lattice Crust recipe is your new best friend. Perfectly golden, with a beautifully woven lattice topping that’s as eye-catching as it is delicious, this pie bursts with flavors that feel like a warm hug on a chilly day. Whether it’s a holiday celebration or just a simple Sunday treat, mastering this classic will make you the star of any gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Comfort: It captures the cozy flavors of homemade apple pie everyone adores, making it an instant crowd-pleaser.
• Lattice Charm: The decorative lattice crust not only looks stunning but adds the perfect crispy texture to every bite.
• Balanced Sweetness: The cinnamon and sugar blend complements the tart apples without overpowering their natural flavor.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses easy-to-find staples with encouraging tips to make baking approachable and fun.
• Versatile Base: You can tweak the filling or crust to suit personal preferences or dietary needs effortlessly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Apple Pie with Lattice Crust recipe depends on straightforward ingredients, each playing a key role in delivering that perfect flaky crust and luscious, flavorful filling. From the type of apples to the choice of spices, every element counts toward pie perfection.

• Apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a balanced flavor and ideal texture.
• All-purpose flour: Essential for making tender, flaky dough that holds its shape without toughness.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flakiness to the crust—cold butter is best for perfect layering.
• Granulated sugar and brown sugar: For sweetness and a subtle caramel note in the filling.
• Cinnamon and nutmeg: Classic spices that give the filling its unmistakable warm flavor profile.
• Lemon juice: Prevents apples from browning and adds a hint of brightness to the filling.
• Egg: For egg wash to achieve that golden, glossy finish on the lattice crust.
• Salt: Enhances all flavors and balances sweetness.

Variations for Apple Pie with Lattice Crust

One of the best parts about this Apple Pie with Lattice Crust is how adaptable it is! Whether you want to mix up the flavors or cater to dietary needs, here are several fun options to experiment with while keeping the heart of the recipe intact.

• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the filling for a deeper, autumnal flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend to make it safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
• Vegan Friendly: Use coconut oil or vegan butter and substitute the egg wash with a plant-based milk glaze.
• Peach Apple Twist: Mix sliced peaches into the filling for a summery, juicy variation.
• Nutty Addition: Sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts into the filling or on the crust for added crunch and flavor.

How to Make Apple Pie with Lattice Crust

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Dough

Start by combining cold, cubed unsalted butter with all-purpose flour and a pinch of salt in a food processor or bowl. Pulse or mix until pea-sized crumbs form, then gradually add ice water, mixing just until the dough comes together. Divide into two disks, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least one hour.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

Peel, core, and thinly slice your apples, then toss them in a large bowl with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and a little flour to thicken the juices. Let the mixture sit while rolling out the dough.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

On a lightly floured surface, roll out one disk of chilled dough into a 12-inch circle for the bottom crust. Carefully transfer to a 9-inch pie dish and trim the edges slightly, leaving space for the lattice top.

Step 4: Add the Filling

Pour the apple mixture evenly over the bottom crust, spreading it gently with a spoon for an even layer.

Step 5: Create the Lattice Top Crust

Roll out the second dough disk and cut into even strips, about 3/4-inch wide. Lay half the strips vertically over the filling, then weave the remaining strips horizontally, carefully lifting and folding as you go to create a beautiful lattice pattern.

Step 6: Seal and Egg Wash

Trim and crimp the edges to seal the pie. Brush the lattice top with beaten egg for a lovely golden brown finish, and sprinkle a little sugar for extra sparkle and crunch.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the pie for 50 to 60 minutes, covering the edges with foil after 30 minutes to prevent over-browning. The pie is ready when the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie with Lattice Crust

• Chill the Dough Well: Cold dough creates flakier layers and prevents shrinkage during baking.
• Even Apple Slices: Slice apples uniformly to ensure even cooking and a harmonious bite.
• Lattice Weaving: Use a ruler or guide to keep strips even for a professional look that bakes evenly.
• Seal Crust Gaps: Pinch edges tightly to lock in the filling and avoid juice leaks.
• Cool Properly: Let the pie cool completely before slicing so the filling sets perfectly.

How to Serve Apple Pie with Lattice Crust

Garnishes

Add a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for a luscious finishing touch that melts into the warm apple filling beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve your pie alongside a cup of hot tea or freshly brewed coffee. For a cozy autumn experience, pair it with spiced cider or a glass of lightly sweet white wine.

Creative Ways to Present

Place the pie on a rustic wooden board and garnish the edges with fresh cinnamon sticks, apple slices, or edible flowers for a charming centerpiece that invites indulgence.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover apple pie covered loosely at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate it to keep fresh for about four days.

Freezing

Wrap the baked and cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. It stays delicious for up to two months and thaws overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

Warm slices in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave gently, ensuring the crust regains some crispness and the filling heats through.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pie crust for the lattice?

Absolutely! Pre-made crusts can save time and still taste great; just thaw them properly and handle the strips gently when weaving.

What apples work best for this pie?

A combination of tart Granny Smith for structure and sweet varieties like Honeycrisp creates the best flavor and texture balance in the filling.

How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?

Precooking the filling slightly or brushing the bottom crust with a thin layer of egg white before adding apples helps prevent sogginess.

Can I make this pie vegan?

Yes, substitute butter with a vegan alternative and use a plant-based milk or maple syrup for the egg wash to keep the crust golden.

Why is my lattice crust not browning evenly?

Uneven browning usually means the oven temperature is off or the egg wash wasn’t applied evenly; try rotating the pie halfway through baking.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about the aroma and taste of a freshly baked Apple Pie with Lattice Crust that no other dessert can replace. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients working in harmony to create comfort and joy. Give this recipe a whirl and watch it become your go-to for sharing sweet moments with friends and family.

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