Apple Pie by Grandma Ople is the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. It’s loaded with tender, cinnamon-spiced apples baked in a perfectly flaky crust that’s golden and just the right amount of crispy. Each bite is a beautiful mix of sweet and tart, with that classic apple pie aroma filling the kitchen.
I love that this recipe feels like stepping back in time—like sitting at Grandma Ople’s kitchen table, watching her work her magic with simple ingredients and a lot of love. The secret, as I’ve learned, is in not rushing the crust and making sure those apples are sliced just right. I always find myself sneaking a little extra cinnamon because, well, why not?
My favorite way to enjoy this apple pie is warm, straight from the oven, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream that melts into every crack and crumb. It’s the perfect treat after a long day or whenever you want to bring a little cozy comfort to the table. Honestly, Grandma Ople’s apple pie never fails to make me smile.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp give the pie a nice balance of sweet and tangy. If you can’t find these, Braeburn or Jonathan apples work well too. Mixing two types can add depth.
Sugars: The combo of granulated and brown sugar adds sweetness and a hint of caramel flavor. For less sweetness, reduce granulated sugar by a couple of tablespoons.
Spices & Vanilla: Cinnamon and nutmeg are classic for apple pie. I like adding a splash of vanilla extract for extra warmth, but you can leave it out if preferred.
Pie Crust: You can use store-bought refrigerated crusts for convenience or homemade for that extra flakiness. Butter-based crusts give a rich flavor, while shortening-based tend to be flakier.
How Do You Make a Perfect Lattice Pie Crust?
Creating a lattice crust looks fancy but is easy with a little patience. Here’s how I do it:
- Roll out the top crust and cut it into even strips, about 1 inch wide.
- Lay half the strips across the pie filling, spaced evenly.
- Fold back every other strip halfway, then lay a new strip perpendicular over the filling.
- Unfold the folded strips back over the new strip.
- Repeat folding and laying strips until the pie is covered with a woven pattern.
- Trim and press the edges to seal well with the bottom crust.
Brush the top with beaten egg for a shiny golden finish, and sprinkle with coarse sugar for extra crunch. Don’t rush this step—it really makes the pie stand out!
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9-inch pie dish – perfect size for this recipe and helps the crust bake evenly.
- Mixing bowl – big enough to toss the apples and spices for an even coating.
- Rolling pin – helps you roll out the pie crust smoothly for a nice thin base and top.
- Pastry brush – makes it easy to apply egg wash for that shiny, golden crust.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – great for cutting lattice strips or trimming the crust edges.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling for a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
- Mix in 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger or cardamom with the cinnamon for a warm, spicy twist.
- Use half apples and half pears for a slightly sweeter and juicier filling.
- Stir in 1/4 cup raisins or dried cranberries to add bursts of extra sweetness and texture.
How to Make Apple Pie by Grandma Ople?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 6 to 7 medium tart apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
For The Crust and Topping:
- 1 package (about 14 ounces) refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade pie crust for top and bottom)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Coarse sugar for sprinkling (optional)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This apple pie takes about 20 minutes to prepare, with an additional 45 to 55 minutes for baking. Let it cool for at least 2 hours before serving so the filling sets perfectly. In total, expect around 3 hours from start to finish, mostly hands-off during cooling.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Apple Filling:
In a large bowl, mix the sliced apples with the sugars, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Stir well so every apple slice gets coated. Set this mixture aside for 10 to 15 minutes so the juices come out and flavors blend.
2. Assemble the Pie Base and Filling:
Roll out one pie crust and gently place it in a 9-inch pie plate. Trim any dough that hangs over the edges. Pour the apple mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly. Dot small pieces of butter across the apples to add richness during baking.
3. Create the Top Crust or Lattice:
Roll out the second pie crust. You can lay it over the filling as a whole sheet or cut it into about 1-inch strips to weave a classic lattice pattern on top. Weave the strips carefully over and under each other, then trim and seal the edges with the bottom crust by pinching or folding the dough.
4. Finish and Bake:
Brush the top crust or lattice with the beaten egg for a gorgeous golden shine. Sprinkle coarse sugar over it for a crunchy, sweet finish if you like. Place your pie on the middle rack of a preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. To keep the crust edges from getting too dark, cover them with foil after 30 minutes.
5. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, the pie should have a golden-brown crust and bubbling filling visible through the lattice. Take it out and let it cool for at least 2 hours so the filling thickens nicely. Serve warm or at room temperature, topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Can I Use Frozen Apples for This Pie?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mixing with the other ingredients. This helps prevent a soggy crust and keeps the filling from getting too watery.
How Do I Store Leftover Apple Pie?
Store leftovers covered loosely with foil or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat slices gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I Make the Pie Crust From Scratch?
Absolutely! Homemade pie crust adds great flavor and flakiness. Use your favorite butter-based or shortening-based recipe, keeping it chilled while you prepare the filling for best results.
What Can I Use Instead of a Lattice Top?
If you prefer, simply cover the pie with a full top crust. Poke a few steam vents with a sharp knife to allow moisture to escape while baking. This method is easier and still delicious!