Fannie Farmer’s apple pie recipe is a timeless classic that brings together tradition and flavor in every bite. Known as the mother of American cookbooks, Fannie Farmer’s approach to baking emphasizes precision and simplicity, making this pie a perfect choice for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
We love how this recipe highlights crisp tart apples wrapped in a flaky buttery crust, delivering a comforting dessert that feels like home. Whether you’re baking for a holiday or just because, this apple pie promises a perfect balance of sweet and spice that’s hard to resist. Let’s dive into a recipe that’s stood the test of time and continues to delight pie lovers everywhere.
Ingredients
To create the authentic Fannie Farmer Apple Pie, we start with carefully selected ingredients that honor tradition and ensure rich flavor. Below are the precise components for the crust, the apple filling, and additional essentials to complete this classic dessert.
For the Pie Crust
We rely on a simple yet flaky crust that forms the perfect base for our apple filling. Here’s what we need:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup ice water
For the Apple Filling
The filling features crisp tart apples as Fannie Farmer intended, perfectly balanced with spices and sweetness:
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Tart apples | 6 to 7 medium | Peeled, cored, sliced |
| Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup | — |
| Brown sugar | 1/4 cup | Packed |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | — |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon | Freshly grated ideal |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Freshly squeezed |
| All-purpose flour | 2 tablespoons | For thickening |
Additional Ingredients
To achieve the signature glossy finish and depth of flavor, gather these extras:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for sprinkling on top)
- Pinch of salt (to enhance the crust flavor)
By assembling these ingredients with precision, we set the foundation for a classic Fannie Farmer Apple Pie that’s both timeless and delicious.
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Fannie Farmer Apple Pie with a flaky crust and flavorful filling, having the right equipment is essential. Below is an organized list of the tools we use to bring this classic recipe to life with precision and ease.
1. Mixing Bowls
We need a set of sturdy mixing bowls to combine the dough ingredients and later mix the apple filling. Preferably use glass or stainless steel for easy cleaning.
2. Pastry Blender or Food Processor
A pastry blender works well to cut cold butter into the flour evenly, giving the crust its signature flakiness. Alternatively, a food processor speeds up the process and achieves a consistent texture.
3. Rolling Pin
A rolling pin is essential for rolling out the dough. Choose a smooth wooden or marble rolling pin for an even, thin crust.
4. 9-inch Pie Dish
Use a 9-inch pie dish made of ceramic or glass to bake the pie. This size allows the filling and crust to cook evenly while showcasing the pie beautifully.
5. Apple Peeler, Corer, and Slicer (Optional but helpful)
This tool simplifies prepping the apples, ensuring uniform slices to cook evenly in the pie filling.
6. Pastry Brush
A pastry brush is necessary for applying the egg wash on the crust to achieve a golden brown and glossy finish.
7. Measuring Cups and Spoons
Accurate measurements of flour, sugar, spices, and liquids are crucial when following Fannie Farmer’s recipe. Use quality measuring cups and spoons for precision.
8. Knife and Cutting Board
Use a sharp knife to trim the pie crust and a durable cutting board for apple prep.
9. Cooling Rack
After baking, place the pie on a cooling rack to allow air circulation and prevent sogginess of the bottom crust.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Mixing Bowls | Combine dough and filling ingredients |
| Pastry Blender / Food Processor | Cut butter into flour evenly for flaky crust |
| Rolling Pin | Roll out dough evenly |
| 9-inch Pie Dish | Bake the apple pie |
| Apple Peeler, Corer, Slicer | Prep apples uniformly |
| Pastry Brush | Apply egg wash for glossy crust |
| Measuring Cups and Spoons | Accurate ingredient measurement |
| Knife and Cutting Board | Slice apples and trim dough |
| Cooling Rack | Prevent crust sogginess after baking |
Prep Work
Before we assemble the Fannie Farmer Apple Pie, precise prep work sets the foundation for a crisp flaky crust and a perfectly spiced apple filling. Let’s start by preparing each component carefully.
Preparing the Pie Crust
- Chill your ingredients: Ensure the butter is cold and cut into small cubes. Keep the ice water ready in the fridge.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine all-purpose flour, salt, and a touch of granulated sugar for slight sweetness.
- Cut in the butter: Using a pastry blender or food processor, incorporate the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized pieces.
- Add cold water gradually: Drizzle ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough just comes together. Avoid overworking to maintain flakiness.
- Divide and shape dough: Split the dough into two equal parts. Form each into a flat disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to chill thoroughly.
- Roll out dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll one disk into a 12-inch circle about 1/8 inch thick for the bottom crust. Keep the other disk chilled until ready for the top.
Preparing the Apple Filling
- Select tart apples: Use 6 to 7 medium-sized tart apples like Granny Smith for balanced flavor and texture.
- Peel, core, and slice apples: Uniform 1/4-inch slices ensure even cooking. Utilize an apple peeler, corer, slicer for efficiency and precision.
- Prevent browning: Toss slices immediately in a large bowl with 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice.
- Add dry ingredients: Mix in granulated sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt to create a harmonious spice blend.
- Incorporate thickener: Add 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour or cornstarch to absorb excess juice and thicken filling during baking.
- Combine evenly: Stir gently but thoroughly ensuring each apple slice is coated with the spice-sugar mixture.
| Ingredient | Preparation Detail | Measurement |
|---|---|---|
| Apples (tart variety) | Peeled cored and sliced thinly | 6 to 7 medium |
| Lemon juice | Toss with apples immediately | 2 tablespoons |
| Granulated sugar | Mixed into apples | 3/4 cup |
| Brown sugar | Added for depth of sweetness | 1/4 cup |
| Ground cinnamon | Classic warm spice | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
| Ground nutmeg | Delicate aromatic note | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Salt | Enhances flavor balance | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Flour or cornstarch | Thicken filling juices | 2 tablespoons |
This meticulous prep work ensures the apple filling bursts with flavor inside a flaky buttery crust baked to golden perfection.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to assemble, bake, and serve the Fannie Farmer Apple Pie that delivers a perfect balance of a flaky buttery crust and a richly spiced, tender apple filling.
Assembling the Pie
- Prepare your workspace by lightly flouring the surface to roll out the dough without sticking.
- Roll out one half of the chilled pie dough into a 12-inch circle, about 1/8 inch thick, ensuring even thickness.
- Carefully transfer the crust to a 9-inch pie dish, gently pressing it to fit the dish without stretching.
- Trim the edges, leaving about 1 inch of dough hanging over the rim of the pie dish.
- Pour the prepared apple filling into the crust, distributing it evenly for consistent baking.
- Roll out the second half of the dough to a 12-inch circle for the top crust.
- Place the top crust over the apple filling.
- Trim excess dough, then fold the edges of the top and bottom crusts together, pressing firmly to seal.
- Crimp the edges decoratively using your fingers or a fork to ensure the pie is securely sealed.
- Cut a few small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Brush the entire top crust with an egg wash for a golden, glossy finish.
- Sprinkle the top generously with granulated sugar to enhance sweetness and texture.
Baking the Pie
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat oven | 425°F (220°C) | 15 minutes | Allows for an initial crust set |
| Bake initial | 425°F (220°C) | 15 minutes | High heat creates a crisp crust |
| Reduce temperature | 350°F (175°C) | 40-45 minutes | Evenly cooks the apples and crust |
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Place the assembled pie on the middle rack.
- Bake for 15 minutes at high heat to create a golden, crisp crust.
- Reduce oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) without opening the door.
- Continue baking for 40 to 45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Check occasionally; if the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil strips to prevent burning.
Cooling and Serving
- Remove the pie from the oven carefully and place it on a cooling rack.
- Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours to let the filling set properly.
- Serve slightly warm or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to enhance the classic flavor profile.
Tips for the Perfect Fannie Farmer Apple Pie
To achieve the best results with our Fannie Farmer apple pie recipe we follow these essential tips that highlight precision and care in each step of the baking process.
Select the Right Apples
Choose a mix of tart apples, such as Granny Smith, combined with slightly sweeter varieties like Honeycrisp. This balance adds depth to the filling’s flavor and keeps it from becoming overly sweet or mushy. Always aim for firm apples for a classic crisp texture.
| Apple Variety | Flavor Profile | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Granny Smith | Tart | Firm, Crisp |
| Honeycrisp | Sweet-Tart | Juicy, Crisp |
| Braeburn | Balanced Sweet | Slightly Firm |
Keep Ingredients Cold
For a flaky crust chill all ingredients including butter and water. Cold butter creates layers as it melts during baking, producing a tender and flaky texture. Likewise, use ice-cold water when mixing the dough to prevent butter from softening prematurely.
Uniform Apple Slices
Slice apples evenly about 1/4-inch thick using an apple peeler, corer, and slicer tool. Uniform slices ensure even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the pie.
Toss Apples in Lemon Juice
Prevent browning and enhance tartness by immediately tossing sliced apples in fresh lemon juice. This small step maintains the vibrant color and adds a hint of brightness to the filling.
Perfect the Filling Thickness
Use a thickening agent like flour or cornstarch to absorb excess juice released during baking. Avoid soggy filling by carefully measuring the thickener and mixing it evenly with apples and spices.
“A well-thickened filling keeps every bite rich and perfectly gooey without spilling out.”
Roll Dough Evenly
Roll the dough to an even thickness around 1/8 inch to avoid overly thick or fragile spots. An even crust thickness ensures consistent baking and a golden, flaky finish.
Apply Egg Wash
Brush the top crust with a lightly beaten egg mixed with a tablespoon of water. This egg wash produces a glossy golden surface and helps sprinkled sugar crystallize attractively.
Baking Temperature and Time
Bake at 425°F (220°C) initially for 15 minutes to set the crust, then lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) for 40-50 minutes for gentle cooking of the filling and thorough browning of the crust.
| Baking Stage | Temperature | Time | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Bake | 425°F (220°C) | 15 minutes | Set crust, prevent sogginess |
| Main Bake | 350°F (175°C) | 40-50 minutes | Cook filling, brown crust |
Cool Before Serving
Allow the pie to cool at least two hours on a cooling rack. Cooling lets the filling set firmly to avoid a runny texture when sliced.
By following these detailed tips with attention and care we unlock the full potential of the Fannie Farmer apple pie recipe delivering a perfectly balanced, flaky, and flavorful classic dessert every time.
Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions
Preparing the Pie in Advance
We can make the Fannie Farmer Apple Pie ahead of time to simplify our baking day. After assembling the pie, but before baking:
- Wrap the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Refrigerate for up to 24 hours to maintain freshness.
If needed, we can also freeze the unbaked pie:
- Wrap securely in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
- Label with the date.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
When ready to bake from frozen, allow the pie to thaw in the refrigerator overnight for even cooking.
Storing Leftover Pie
To keep our apple pie fresh after baking, follow these storage guidelines:
| Storage Method | Duration | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 1 to 2 days | Cover loosely with foil or plastic wrap. |
| Refrigerator | 4 to 5 days | Wrap tightly to prevent crust from drying. |
| Freezer | Up to 4 months | Wrap in foil and freezer-safe bags. |
Reheating for Optimal Flavor
To restore the flaky crust and warm the filling, reheat slices or the whole pie:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place pie or slice on a baking sheet.
- Cover loosely with foil to prevent over-browning.
- Heat for 15-20 minutes for slices, or 25-30 minutes for a whole pie until warmed through.
- Avoid microwave reheating to preserve crust texture.
“Reheating in the oven is key to preserving the classic flaky crust and warmly spiced filling that define our Fannie Farmer Apple Pie.”
Tips for Best Results
- Avoid Refrigerating before baking to keep the crust flaky.
- When freezing, ensure airtight wrapping to prevent freezer burn.
- Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before wrapping for storage to avoid soggy crust.
By following these Make-Ahead and Storage Instructions, we preserve the timeless flavor and texture that make the Fannie Farmer Apple Pie a classic dessert favorite.
Conclusion
Baking Fannie Farmer’s apple pie is more than just making dessert—it’s about embracing a timeless tradition with every step. With attention to detail and quality ingredients, we can create a pie that’s flaky, flavorful, and truly comforting. Whether for a special occasion or a simple treat, this recipe delivers consistent results that bring warmth to any table. By following the tips and techniques, we ensure every slice is as delicious as intended, making this classic apple pie a staple in our baking repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Fannie Farmer’s apple pie recipe special?
Fannie Farmer’s apple pie is special for its precise yet simple approach, creating a flaky buttery crust with crisp tart apples. The recipe balances tradition with ease, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced bakers.
Which apples are best for this apple pie?
Tart apples, such as Granny Smith or Jonathan, are best. They offer a nice balance of sweetness and acidity, helping the filling hold its shape and flavor during baking.
How do I achieve a flaky pie crust?
Keep all ingredients cold, especially butter and water. Use a pastry blender or food processor to cut butter into the flour until crumbly. Handle the dough minimally and chill before rolling out.
What essential tools do I need for making this pie?
You need mixing bowls, a pastry blender or food processor, rolling pin, 9-inch pie dish, apple peeler/corer/slicer, pastry brush, measuring cups and spoons, knife, cutting board, and a cooling rack.
How should I prepare the apples for the filling?
Peel, core, and slice apples uniformly. Toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning, then mix with sugars, spices, and a thickener for perfect consistency and flavor.
What is the recommended baking temperature and time?
Bake at a temperature that ensures a golden crust and cooked filling, typically around 375°F (190°C) for about 50–60 minutes, adjusting based on your oven for even cooking.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie in advance. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 2 months before baking.
How do I store leftover pie properly?
Store leftover pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, refrigerated for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage. Reheat gently to restore the flaky crust and warm filling.
Should I use an egg wash on the crust?
Yes, brushing the crust with an egg wash before baking gives it a shiny, golden finish and enhances flavor.
What are good serving suggestions for this apple pie?
Serve slightly warm or at room temperature, optionally with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to complement the classic flavors.