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Freshly baked apple pie with a thick filling made with cornstarch, surrounded by baking ingredients.

Why Do You Put Cornstarch in Apple Pie?

Cornstarch is the secret ingredient for a perfectly thickened apple pie filling. It absorbs excess moisture from the apples, preventing a runny pie while keeping the filling glossy and smooth. This classic apple pie recipe balances sweetness, warmth from cinnamon, and the right texture for a delightful homemade dessert.

  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

For the Pie Crust:

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 6 tablespoons ice water

For the Apple Filling:

  • 6 cups apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • ¾ cup granulated sugar
  • ¼ cup brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

Instructions

  • Prepare the Pie Crust: In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until the dough comes together. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 1 hour.

  • Make the Apple Filling: In a large bowl, toss apple slices with sugar, brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Let sit for 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

  • Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out one dough disc to fit a 9-inch pie plate. Press into the plate and trim excess dough.

  • Assemble the Pie: Pour the apple mixture into the crust, spreading evenly. Dot with butter pieces. Roll out the second dough disc and place it over the filling. Seal and crimp edges. Cut slits for ventilation.

  • Egg Wash & Bake: Brush the top crust with a beaten egg. Bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 50–55 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.

  • Cool & Serve: Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing to allow the filling to set properly. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Notes

  • Cornstarch prevents a runny filling and creates a glossy, thick texture.
  • Let the pie cool fully before slicing to allow the cornstarch to set.
  • For a firmer filling, use a mix of firm apple varieties.
  • Author: wedorecipes
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Calories: ~320 kcal
  • Sugar: 25g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 3 g

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