- 4 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (to thicken the filling)
For Assembly:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (for sprinkling on top)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Make the Crust
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together.
- Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling
- In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch until evenly coated. Set aside.
3. Assemble the Pie
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle.
- Transfer the rolled-out dough to the prepared baking sheet.
- Arrange the apple slices in an even layer over the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border around the edges.
- Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pleating as you go to create a rustic, free-form shape.
4. Bake
- Brush the edges of the crust with the beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar for a golden, sparkling finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Optional: Cover the edges of the crust with foil halfway through baking to prevent over-browning.
5. Cool and Serve
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.
- Enjoy every bite of this warm, spiced, and indulgent Mom’s Flat Apple Pie!
- Perfect as a standalone dessert or paired with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Tips for Success
- Use Cold Ingredients: Keep the butter and water cold to ensure a flaky crust.
- Choose the Right Apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for a balanced flavor.
- Add Texture: Sprinkle chopped pecans, walnuts, or oats over the filling for added crunch.
- Store Leftovers: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently in the oven before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
This Mom’s Flat Apple Pie combines the tender juiciness of spiced apples with the buttery crispness of a homemade crust into a dessert that’s both satisfying and nostalgic. The rustic design ensures consistent results without requiring advanced baking skills, while the customizable options allow you to tailor the recipe to your taste. Whether served as a standalone dessert or customized with your favorite toppings, this recipe delivers big on taste and simplicity.
Conclusion: A Dessert Everyone Will Love
Whether you’re craving something warm and comforting, looking for a way to simplify pie-making, or simply want to indulge in a homemade treat, this Mom’s Flat Apple Pie is sure to delight. Its bold flavors, satisfying textures, and practical preparation make it a standout recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Plus, its adaptability means you can tailor it to suit any occasion.
We’d love to see your creations! Tag us in your photos or share your favorite variations—your take on this pie might just inspire others to try it too! 🍴✨
