Did you know there’s an entire day dedicated to celebrating the beloved apple pie? Yep, National Apple Pie Day is a thing, and it’s the perfect excuse to indulge in one of the most comforting desserts ever created.
But why stop at the classic when you can take it up a notch with a French twist? This French Apple Pie recipe is not just a treat for the taste buds—it’s a celebration in itself!
Imagine a classic apple pie but with a fancy French twist and some espresso martini—sounds delicious, right? I’m about to share a recipe that’s not only scrumptious but also surprisingly easy to whip up. Even if your baking skills are a bit, let’s say, “rusty,” this pie will make you look like a kitchen pro.
Why French Apple Pie Stands Out
French apple pie is a delightful variation of the classic apple pie, offering a unique blend of textures and flavors that set it apart from traditional American-style pies. Unlike the typical lattice-topped pie, French apple pie often features a buttery crumb topping or a rich custard-like filling, giving it a luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Many also love apple pie for its versatility. You can enjoy it warm, straight from the oven, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence. It’s also a delightful treat when served cold, as the flavors continue to develop and intensify.
Ingredients Used to Make French Apple Pie
- Apples: The star of the show! Go for Granny Smith or Honeycrisp—they bring that perfect balance of tart and sweet.
- Butter: Because everything’s better with butter. Seriously.
- Sugar: A mix of granulated and brown sugar for that deep, caramel-like flavor.
- Cinnamon & Nutmeg: The dynamic duo that gives the pie its cozy, autumn vibe.
- Lemon Juice: Keeps those apples from turning brown and adds a nice zing.
- Pie Crust: Store-bought or homemade, your call! No judgment here.
- Egg Wash: To give the crust that golden, glossy finish.
How to Make French Apple Pie
- Prep the Apples: Peel, core, and slice those apples nice and thin. Toss them in a bowl with lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Let them sit and soak up all that flavor while you get everything else ready.
- Prepare the Crust: If you’re using a store-bought crust, high five for saving time! Roll out the bottom crust into your pie dish, making sure it covers the edges.
- Fill the Pie: Pile those seasoned apples into the crust, arranging them slightly higher in the middle. Dot with butter to ensure a rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Top It Off: Roll out the top crust and place it over the apples. You can go classic with a full cover or get fancy with a lattice pattern. Either way, make sure to seal the edges well.
- Egg Wash & Bake: Brush the top crust with an egg wash for that bakery-style shine. Pop it into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 50 minutes. When the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly, you’re good to go!
- Cool & Serve: Let the pie cool for a bit before slicing in. It’s hard to wait, but trust me, it’s worth it. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re feeling extra indulgent.
Donee—a French Apple Pie that’s both fancy and familiar, like a little piece of Paris in every bite. Whether you’re impressing guests or just treating yourself, this pie is bound to become a favorite. Now, go enjoy that slice… or two! 😋
Quick Cooking Recipe
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Inactive Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Author: Jen Sharpin | So Damn Delish
- Yield: 8 slices
Indulge in So Damn Delish's French Apple Pie: a buttery crust filled with caramelized apples and a hint of cinnamon. A perfect blend of rustic charm and Parisian elegance.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 double pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with lemon juice, sugars, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- Roll out the bottom pie crust and fit it into a pie dish.
- Fill the crust with the apple mixture and dot with butter.
- Roll out the top crust, place over the apples, and seal the edges. Cut slits for venting.
- Brush the top with egg wash.
- Bake for 50 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
- Allow the pie to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes:
- Want to make it extra French? Add a splash of Calvados (apple brandy) to the apple mixture.
- For a crispier crust, place the pie on the lowest rack in your oven.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Apple Tarts and French Apple Cake
If you love apple desserts, you might also enjoy trying different takes on the French apple pie. Apple tarts are a refined alternative, featuring thinly sliced apples beautifully arranged over a flaky, buttery crust. Unlike the deep-dish French apple pie, apple tarts offer a delicate balance of pastry and filling, perfect for those who prefer a lighter dessert.
Another variation worth exploring is the French apple cake. With a soft, cake-like texture infused with juicy apple chunks, this dessert highlights the natural sweetness of apples without overwhelming spices. The apple cake recipe is an ideal choice if you're looking for a dessert that’s less rich than traditional pie but equally satisfying.
Craving more delicious recipes similar to this French Apple Pie? Head back to So Damn Delish for more inspiration that'll make your taste buds dance.
Print
French Apple Pie Recipe: A Classic Take on Apple Tarts and Cake
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Inactive Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Category: Sweets
Description
Indulge in So Damn Delish's French Apple Pie: a buttery crust filled with caramelized apples and a hint of cinnamon for the National Apple Pie Day celebration!
Ingredients
- 6 cups thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 double pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with lemon juice, sugars, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Set aside.
- Roll out the bottom pie crust and fit it into a pie dish.
- Fill the crust with the apple mixture and dot with butter.
- Roll out the top crust, place over the apples, and seal the edges. Cut slits for venting.
- Brush the top with egg wash.
- Bake for 50 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
- Allow the pie to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Want to make it extra French? Add a splash of Calvados (apple brandy) to the apple mixture.
- For a crispier crust, place the pie on the lowest rack in your oven.
Nutrition
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
