There’s nothing quite like the comforting scent of baked apples wafting through your home. The first time I rolled out puff pastry and layered it with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples, I knew I had stumbled upon a winner. This Apple Pie with Puff Pastry isn’t just any dessert—it’s a celebration of flavors wrapped in flaky goodness. Imagine the crispy, golden crust giving way to a warm, luscious filling that bursts with the sweetness of freshly picked apples.
As the leaves start to change and the cool air sets in, I find myself craving this delightful treat more than ever. It’s the perfect excuse to gather around the kitchen with family, sharing stories and laughter while waiting for the pie to bake. And the best part? This recipe turns out impressively elegant yet is so straightforward that even novice bakers can feel like pros. Grab your rolling pin and let’s get started on this delicious journey that will end with a perfectly baked Apple Pie that everyone will be talking about!
Why is Apple Pie with Puff Pastry a must-try?
Irresistible aroma: The sweet scent of cinnamon and warm apples fills your kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere that’s hard to resist.
Flaky texture: Thanks to the puff pastry, each slice delivers a satisfying crunch before revealing a tender, juicy filling.
Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for family gatherings or dinner parties, this pie is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.
Quick prep: With just a few simple steps and ingredients, this recipe is easy to whip up for a last-minute dessert.
Versatile: Whether you serve it warm with ice cream or at room temperature with coffee, it adapts to any occasion beautifully.
Before diving in, check out our other sweet treats to keep the festivities going!
Apple Pie with Puff Pastry Ingredients
For the Pie Crust
- Puff pastry – Perfectly flaky and easy to work with, making it a delightful choice for your apple pie.
- Flour for dusting – Keeps the dough from sticking while rolling out, ensuring a smooth pastry experience.
- Large egg – Used for the egg wash that gives the crust a beautiful golden sheen.
- Raw sugar – Sprinkled on top before baking for an extra touch of sweetness and a crunchy finish.
For the Filling
- Large apples – Choose a mix of sweet and tart varieties for depth of flavor; about 10 should do.
- Large lemon – Juice helps to prevent the apples from browning while adding a zesty brightness to the filling.
- Light or dark brown sugar – Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness to balance the tartness of the apples.
- Cinnamon – This classic spice brings warmth and comforting aroma to your Apple Pie with Puff Pastry.
- Nutmeg – Just a hint of this spice enhances the flavor profile, making the filling taste like home.
- Vanilla – A splash of this extract elevates the filling’s sweetness and rounds out the flavors.
- Cornstarch – Helps thicken the juices from the apples, ensuring the filling is perfectly set.
With these fresh ingredients at your fingertips, you’re ready to embark on a delightful baking adventure!
How to Make Apple Pie with Puff Pastry
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Thaw the pastry: Start by letting the puff pastry sheets thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours until pliable and soft.
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Prepare the apples: Peel and slice the apples, tossing them in a large bowl. Squeeze the juice of the lemon over them, then add the sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla to brighten up those flavors.
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Macerate: Gently toss all the ingredients together and allow them to sit for 1-2 hours. This step lets the apples release their juices and absorb all those wonderful flavors.
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Roll out the pastry: On a lightly floured surface, roll out one of the puff pastry sheets an extra 1-2 inches on each side. This will create a beautiful overhang for your deep dish pie plate.
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Prepare the filling: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the apples to a separate bowl while reserving the excess juice. Sprinkle the apples with cornstarch and mix gently before placing them over the bottom puff pastry layer.
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Top it off: Roll out the second puff pastry sheet and cover the apples. Trim any excess pastry, fold the edges to seal, and crimp with your fingers to make it pretty. Don’t forget to cut a few slits in the top crust for steam to escape!
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Chill and preheat: Place the pie in the fridge for about 30 minutes while you preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C).
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Egg wash: In a small bowl, beat the egg until runny. Use a pastry brush to apply this wash over the pie crust, and finish with a sprinkle of raw sugar for that lovely crunch.
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Bake to perfection: Place the pie on the bottom rack of the oven and bake for 75 minutes, or until the juices bubble through the crust. If the edges darken too much, cover them with foil and bake an additional 5-20 minutes.
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Cool down: Allow the pie to cool completely before serving to let the filling set nicely.
Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra cozy touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Apple Pie with Puff Pastry
Room Temperature: Allow the pie to cool completely before covering it with foil or plastic wrap. It can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Fridge: If you wish to keep the pie longer, store it in the refrigerator, tightly covered. It will remain fresh for up to 5 days; simply reheat in the oven before serving.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the apple pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 20-30 minutes, until warm and the crust is crisp again, ensuring you maintain that delightful experience of your Apple Pie with Puff Pastry.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Apple Pie with Puff Pastry are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can peel and slice the apples, mix them with lemon juice, sugar, and spices, and then refrigerate the filling for up to 3 days in advance. The puff pastry can be thawed and rolled out the night before baking, ready to fill when you’re ready to assemble. Just remember to store it wrapped in plastic wrap to keep it from drying out. Once ready to serve, simply layer the filling into the pastry, chill the assembled pie for 30 minutes, egg wash, and bake for perfect, golden results that are just as delicious!
What to Serve with Apple Pie with Puff Pastry?
As the warm, inviting aroma of freshly baked apple pie fills your home, it’s the perfect moment to consider delightful pairings that will elevate your dessert experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy richness of vanilla ice cream beautifully contrasts the warm, spiced filling, creating a heavenly combination.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over each slice adds an indulgent touch, amplifying the flavors of the apples and making dessert feel extra special.
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of freshly whipped cream complements the pie’s warm textures, offering a delightful creaminess with every bite.
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Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee pairs wonderfully with the sweet and buttery notes of the pie, balancing the richness perfectly for a cozy evening.
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Cranberry Sauce: This tangy sauce adds a refreshing punch that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the apple pie, offering a delightful flavor dynamic.
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Spiced Chai Tea: The warm spices in chai can enhance the fall flavors of apple pie, creating a cozy pairing for a relaxing evening dessert.
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Cheddar Cheese: A sharp slice of aged cheddar introduces a delightful savory element that’s both unexpected and delicious alongside the sweet pie.
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Pecan Pie Bars: For a dessert spread, serving pecan pie bars brings a contrasting texture and flavor that complements the apple pie, creating a mini dessert buffet.
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Nutty Granola: Sprinkling some homemade nutty granola on top gives a fun crunchy texture and enhances the overall flavor with toasted notes.
Delight your family and friends with these pairings while making your Apple Pie with Puff Pastry a memorable ending to any meal!
Apple Pie with Puff Pastry Variations
Feel free to play with this recipe and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!
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Fruit Mix: Combine apples with pears or berries for a colorful, sweet twist. Different fruits add their unique flavors and textures!
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Caramel Drizzle: Before baking, layer caramel sauce into the apple filling for an indulgent treat. The gooey sweetness pairs wonderfully with tart apples.
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Spiced Up: Add a pinch of ginger or allspice to the apple mixture for an unexpected kick. This zesty addition will elevate the traditional flavor profile.
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for an added crunch and depth of flavor. This variation creates a delightful contrast to the soft apple filling.
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Cranberry Pop: Stir in a handful of dried cranberries for a tart burst that complements the sweet apples. It’s a delightful fall-inspired flavor!
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Gluten-Free: Swap in gluten-free pastry to cater to dietary needs. Enjoy the same flaky goodness without the gluten!
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Vegan Friendly: Use plant-based butter and a flax egg for the wash. This change keeps the pie delicious while fitting vegan lifestyles.
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Savory Spin: Mix in caramelized onions and cheese with the apples for a unique savory pie. Your family will be surprised by this unexpected savory-sweet combination.
Expert Tips for Apple Pie with Puff Pastry
Choosing Apples: Opt for a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for a balanced flavor in your pie.
Prevent Soggy Bottom: Ensure your puff pastry is cold when you roll it out, as a warm pastry can lead to a soggy crust in this Apple Pie with Puff Pastry.
Avoid Overfilling: Don’t pack the apples too tightly, as they will shrink while baking. Leave some room to avoid a messy overflow.
Egg Wash Secrets: Make sure to brush the egg wash evenly across the crust to achieve a beautiful golden color that’s visually appealing.
Cooling Time: Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes after baking. This will help the filling set and make slicing easier.
Apple Pie with Puff Pastry Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best apples for my Apple Pie with Puff Pastry?
Absolutely! For an incredible flavor, choose a blend of sweet and tart apples. I recommend using Granny Smith apples for their tartness combined with Honeycrisp or Fuji apples, which offer sweetness and texture. This combination creates a more balanced and delicious filling in your pie.
How should I store any leftover Apple Pie with Puff Pastry?
To keep your pie fresh, let it cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap and store at room temperature for 2 days. If you’d like to enjoy it longer, keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just remember to reheat it in the oven to restore that lovely crispness!
Can I freeze the Apple Pie with Puff Pastry?
For sure! Freezing your pie is a great way to save it for later. First, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
What should I do if the pie crust is browning too quickly?
Very important! If you notice the edges of your pie crust getting too dark, cover them gently with aluminum foil. This protects the crust while allowing the filling to continue baking. Bake for an additional 5-20 minutes as needed until the juices are bubbling.
Is this Apple Pie with Puff Pastry safe for pets or those with allergies?
Great question! While this pie is safe for humans, it’s best to keep it away from pets. The sugar and spices can be harmful to them. If you have anyone in your family with allergies, be cautious with the ingredients—especially the egg and potential allergens in the pastry.
How long should I macerate the apples for the best flavor?
I often macerate the apples for about 1-2 hours. This step allows them to release their natural juices, which creates a delightful, flavorful filling. Just toss them with the lemon juice, sugars, and spices, then let them sit. Make sure to stir occasionally to coat all slices evenly!
Delicious Apple Pie with Puff Pastry for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Thaw the pastry: Let the puff pastry sheets thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature until pliable.
- Prepare the apples: Peel and slice the apples, toss them in a large bowl with lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla.
- Macerate: Allow the apples to sit for 1-2 hours to release juices and absorb flavors.
- Roll out the pastry: Roll out one puff pastry sheet on a floured surface, making it larger for overhang.
- Prepare the filling: Use a slotted spoon to transfer apples to another bowl, sprinkle with cornstarch, then place over the bottom pastry layer.
- Top it off: Roll out the second pastry sheet, cover apples, trim excess pastry, seal edges, and cut slits in top crust.
- Chill and preheat: Chill the pie for 30 minutes, then preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
- Egg wash: Beat the egg and brush over the pie crust, finishing with a sprinkle of raw sugar.
- Bake to perfection: Bake pie on the bottom rack for 75 minutes or until juices bubble. Cover edges with foil if darkening too much.
- Cool down: Let the pie cool completely before serving.