We love how a classic apple pie warms the soul, but our flat apple pie takes it to new heights with its rustic charm and effortless prep. It’s a fresh twist on an American favorite that skips the deep dish for a crisp, golden crust packed with juicy apples.
This simple recipe draws from timeless baking traditions, making it ideal for busy days or impromptu gatherings. We’ll guide you through creating a dessert that’s as fun to make as it is to eat, blending sweet and tart flavors that keep everyone coming back for more.
Ingredients
In our flat apple pie recipe, we prioritize fresh, high-quality ingredients to capture that perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, making it a rustic delight that’s simple yet irresistible. Below, we’ve organized the ingredients in the order they’re used, from preparing the crust to assembling the filling. For optimal results, we recommend using organic apples and measuring precisely.
Crust Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: Sifted and chilled, as we use this first for the base to ensure a flaky texture.
- 1 cup unsalted butter: Cubed and cold, to mix into the flour for that buttery, golden crust.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Added to the flour mixture for enhanced flavor before incorporating the butter.
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water: Gradually mixed in to form the dough, helping bind everything without overworking.
Filling Ingredients
- 6 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Peeled, cored, and thinly sliced – we use these next as the star of the pie for their crisp texture and natural tartness.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Tossed with the apples to sweeten and draw out juices.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Sprinkled over the apples to thicken the filling and prevent sogginess.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Freshly ground if possible, for a warm, aromatic spice that complements the apples.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Squeezed directly onto the sliced apples to maintain their vibrant color and add a zesty tang.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Cut into small pieces, to dot over the filling for extra richness as it bakes.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (1/8 of pie) | Daily Value % |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 350 | 18% |
| Total Fat | 18g | 23% |
| Carbohydrates | 45g | 16% |
| Sugars | 22g | N/A |
| Fiber | 3g | 11% |
Equipment Needed
To prepare our delicious flat apple pie with ease and precision, we rely on a few essential tools that ensure everything comes together smoothly. Having the right equipment not only streamlines the process but also helps achieve that perfect rustic crust and evenly baked filling.
Here’s a detailed list of the equipment we recommend, organized by the stages of preparation for optimal flow:
- Mixing Bowls: Two medium-sized bowls—one for combining dry ingredients like flour and salt for the crust, and another for the apple filling to avoid cross-contamination.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: A set of standard measuring cups (1 cup, ½ cup, etc.) and spoons for accurately measuring ingredients, as precise quantities are key to balancing the sweet and tart flavors in our flat apple pie.
- Rolling Pin: Essential for flattening the dough evenly, ensuring a thin, crisp base that highlights the pie’s modern, rustic appeal.
- Baking Sheet: A large, rimmed sheet to hold the pie during baking, preventing any overflow and allowing for that signature flat presentation.
- Knife and Cutting Board: A sharp chef’s knife paired with a sturdy cutting board for slicing apples into uniform pieces, which promotes even cooking and enhances the pie’s texture.
- Pastry Brush: Useful for applying an egg wash or butter on the crust, adding a golden sheen and extra flavor to our flat apple pie.
With these tools at hand, we’re set to move forward confidently and create a pie that captures the essence of timeless baking traditions.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients and essential tools, we guide you through the straightforward steps to create our flat apple pie, ensuring a flaky crust and a tantalizing filling bursting with sweet-tart apple flavors.
Prep
First, we prepare the crust dough to achieve that rustic, buttery texture. In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 1/2 cups sifted all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon salt, then cut in 1 cup cold unsalted butter using a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add 1/4 cup ice water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix with a fork until the dough forms a ball—this ensures a tender, flaky result that elevates the pie’s appeal.
Next, we tackle the filling to lock in those vibrant flavors. Peel, core, and slice 6 medium organic apples into thin, even pieces on a cutting board, then toss them in a bowl with 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons flour, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon lemon juice for a bright, tangy contrast. The apples’ crisp sweetness mingled with cinnamon’s warm spice creates an irresistible aroma that hints at the pie’s comforting taste.
Assemble
We now assemble the pie for that signature flat, rustic look. On a lightly floured surface, roll out half the dough into a 12-inch circle using a rolling pin, then transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Pile the prepared apple filling onto the center of the dough, leaving a 2-inch border, and dot with 2 tablespoons cubed unsalted butter to add rich, melty depth. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, overlapping as needed, to form a free-form tart—this step showcases the pie’s golden, textured crust that frames the juicy apples beautifully.
Bake
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Total Fat (g) | 18 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 45 |
| Protein (g) | 3 |
| Fiber (g) | 4 |
Make-Ahead Instructions
To keep our flat apple pie fresh and flavorful while fitting into your busy schedule, we often prepare components in advance. This approach maintains the pie’s rustic charm and ensures the flaky crust and sweet-tart filling retain their appeal. Below, we break down the steps for making ahead, storing, and reheating.
Preparing the Dough Ahead
We suggest making the crust dough up to 3 days in advance for optimal texture. Follow the steps from our earlier section: mix the sifted all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, salt, and ice water to form the dough. Once mixed, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. This chilling process enhances the flakiness by allowing the butter to solidify, preventing a tough crust when you bake later.
Preparing the Filling Ahead
The apple filling can be assembled ahead to save time on baking day. Slice the medium apples and combine them with granulated sugar, flour, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice as detailed in the ingredients list. For the best results, store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This allows the flavors to meld, intensifying the sweet and tart notes that make our flat apple pie irresistible.
Assembling and Storing the Pie
If you want to go further, assemble the entire pie ahead of time. Roll out the dough on a floured surface, add the prepared filling, and fold the edges to create that signature rustic look. At this stage:
- Cover and refrigerate: Place the uncooked pie on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with plastic wrap. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 1 day, ensuring the apples stay crisp and the dough doesn’t absorb excess moisture.
- Freeze for longer storage: For up to 2 months, freeze the assembled pie on a baking sheet first to prevent sticking, then wrap it securely in foil. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before baking to preserve the pie’s golden, bubbling finish.
Reheating and Baking Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy your make-ahead flat apple pie, we recommend baking from a chilled or thawed state for the best results. Preheat your oven to 375°F as per our original instructions, and bake for the full time to achieve a crispy, golden crust with juicy, caramelized apples. If reheating a baked pie, warm it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to restore its fresh-baked aroma and texture. Always check for doneness to avoid over-baking, keeping the pie’s delightful balance of sweetness and tartness intact.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this flat apple pie recipe with you
It’s a simple way to bring rustic charm to your table
Whether you’re baking for family or friends we know it’ll become a favorite
Give it a try and let us know how yours turns out
You’ll discover the joy in every flaky bite and sweet filling
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a flat apple pie?
A flat apple pie is a modern, rustic twist on the classic dessert, featuring a free-form tart with a flaky crust and a sweet-tart apple filling. It’s easy to prepare, perfect for busy days or impromptu gatherings, and highlights fresh ingredients for a delightful blend of flavors that evokes traditional baking.
What ingredients are needed for flat apple pie?
For the crust, you’ll need sifted all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, salt, and ice water. The filling requires fresh organic apples, granulated sugar, flour, ground cinnamon, lemon juice, and butter. Using high-quality ingredients ensures the best taste and texture in this simple recipe.
What equipment is required to make flat apple pie?
Essential tools include mixing bowls, measuring cups and spoons, a rolling pin, baking sheet, knife, cutting board, and a pastry brush. These items help streamline preparation, achieve a perfect rustic crust, and ensure even baking for a hassle-free experience.
How do I make flat apple pie?
Start by preparing the crust: mix flour, salt, and butter, then add ice water to form dough. For the filling, slice apples and combine with sugar, flour, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Roll out dough, add filling, fold edges, and bake until golden. This yields a flaky, delicious pie in under an hour of active time.
What are the nutritional facts for flat apple pie?
Each serving has about 350 calories, with details including fat, carbohydrates, protein, and fiber. It’s made with fresh apples for natural sweetness, but portion control is key due to its calorie content from butter and sugar—enjoy as a treat for balanced nutrition.
Can I make flat apple pie ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the crust dough up to three days in advance and refrigerate it for better flakiness. The apple filling can be assembled and stored in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. You can also assemble the full pie and refrigerate for one day or freeze for up to two months.
How do I store and reheat flat apple pie?
Store baked pie in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for two months. To reheat, bake from chilled at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or from frozen at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until crispy. This ensures a warm, juicy filling and golden crust every time.