Easy and delicious apple pie, crafted with simple ingredients – the perfect dessert to share with your family and friends during the holidays or any time of the year!
We’re diving into the world of pies this week, and what better way to start than with a classic apple pie?
But this isn’t just any apple pie; it’s my family’s apple pie. It’s not baked in a traditional pie dish, and the filling is wonderfully simple: just sliced apples with a touch of cinnamon and sugar. And here’s a twist – the crust is made without butter! I know, a pie crust without butter might sound unusual, but trust me, it works beautifully and creates a delightful, unique texture. This recipe is a cherished family favorite, and I’m excited to share this special pie tradition with you.
This apple pie has been a constant in my life for as long as I can remember. It’s the apple pie my mom always baked for us, and growing up, I genuinely thought this was how all apple pies were made! I even remember enjoying the very same pie at my aunt’s house. While I’m not sure about the precise origins of this recipe, I’m incredibly grateful it became a part of our family and now, I get to share it with you.
Let’s talk about what makes this recipe so special. Simplicity is key. Apples, cinnamon, a touch of sweetness, and a wonderfully unique crust are all you need.
The crust is truly a highlight. Personally, I always enjoy the filling first and save the crust for the grand finale! Because it’s made with oil instead of butter, it doesn’t have the typical flaky pie crust texture. Instead, it boasts a more delicate and soft crumb that perfectly complements the apple filling.
Close-up of a slice of family apple slab pie showing the texture and apple filling
The filling, as I mentioned, is wonderfully straightforward. It’s simply apples, cinnamon, and sugar. That’s all there is to it! This simplicity allows the natural flavor of the apples to truly shine.
Half of the easy-to-make crust is pressed into the bottom of a baking pan, followed by the sliced apples. Then, it’s topped with the remaining crust. A quick egg wash brushed over the top gives it a beautiful golden-brown finish in the oven.
Sometimes, the most uncomplicated recipes are truly the best. ♡♡♡
Golden brown family apple slab pie cooling on a wire rack
My Family’s Apple Pie Recipe
Angelina – Your guide to creating delicious family pies.
This easy and delicious apple pie recipe is made with simple ingredients and is perfect for feeding a crowd during the holiday season or any family gathering!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Dessert
Servings 8-10 servings
Ingredients
Filling
- 8-9 medium sized apples, thinly sliced (about 1/4-inch thick)
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3 tbsp granulated sugar
Crust
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup canola or avocado oil
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 large egg + 1 tbsp water or milk for egg wash
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan and set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, cinnamon, and sugar for the filling. Set aside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt for the crust.
- In another bowl, beat the sugar and egg with an electric mixer until light and pale. Mix in the oil, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until a soft dough forms. If the dough is slightly sticky, knead briefly until it comes together.
- Divide the dough in half. Press half of the dough into the prepared baking pan, ensuring it extends slightly up the sides. Pour the apple mixture, including any accumulated juices, over the dough and spread evenly.
- Roll out the remaining dough to fit the pan. Carefully lay it over the apple filling. Tuck the edges of the dough into the corners and, using a sharp knife, make 3 slits in the center of the pie to vent steam.
- Prepare the egg wash by beating an egg with 1 tablespoon of water or milk. Lightly brush the egg wash over the top of the pie crust.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Serve warm or at room temperature and enjoy this classic family pie!
Slice of family apple pie on a plate, showcasing the simple and delicious dessert
Tried this recipe? Let us know how it was and tag @bakedambrosia on Instagram!
