If you’ve been craving a dessert that’s both homey and show-stopping, this German Apple Pie Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining tender, perfectly spiced apples with a rich, creamy custard all encased in a buttery, flaky crust, it’s a classic that truly warms the heart. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or simply indulging yourself, this pie delivers layers of flavor and texture that make every bite unforgettable. Trust me, once you try this German Apple Pie Recipe, it will quickly become a beloved staple in your dessert rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this German Apple Pie Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients which come together to create a rich and satisfying flavor profile. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the crisp apples providing freshness to the creamy custard adding decadence and the crust bringing everything together with buttery goodness.
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a tender yet sturdy pie crust.
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed: Ensures the crust is flaky and flavorful.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds subtle sweetness to the crust dough.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water: Helps bring the dough together without melting the butter.
- 6 cups thinly sliced, peeled apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Tart and sweet apples provide perfect texture and taste.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the apple filling beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds warm, cozy spice.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Offers a subtle earthy spice boost.
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Thickens the apple mixture to prevent sogginess.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the filling and prevents apple browning.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates the luscious custard that sets over the apples.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and richness to the custard.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Deepens the custard’s flavor.
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the custard for a perfect texture.
How to Make German Apple Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Start by combining the flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. This texture ensures a wonderfully flaky crust. Then, add the ice water one tablespoon at a time until the dough holds together. Shape it into a disk, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the dough is essential—it helps relax the gluten and keeps the butter cold, which creates layers as it bakes.
Step 2: Roll Out and Chill the Dough
Once chilled, roll the dough out on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Gently press it in and trim any excess. Pop it back into the fridge while you prepare the filling—this keeps the crust firm and prevents shrinking during baking.
Step 3: Make the Apple Filling
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, toss your sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and lemon juice. This combination adds sweetness and spice while the lemon prevents the apples from turning brown. The flour will help absorb some juices, keeping the filling thick, not runny. Letting the apples sit briefly allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Whisk Together the Custard
In a medium bowl, whisk the heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and flour together until smooth. This creamy custard will soak into the apples and set gently during baking, lending a silky richness that perfectly balances the tartness of the fruit.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Arrange the apple filling evenly into the prepared pie crust. Pour the custard over the apples, making sure it fills all the spaces so every bite holds that fantastic creamy texture. Bake your pie for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the custard is set and the crust turns golden brown. Once baked, let the pie cool completely to allow the custard to firm up before slicing—it’s worth the wait!
How to Serve German Apple Pie Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, dust your pie with powdered sugar or add a dollop of freshly whipped cream right before serving. A sprinkle of cinnamon or a few toasted pecans can add an appealing crunch and warmth that’s hard to resist. These garnishes elevate the rustic look and enhance the flavors without overpowering the classic taste.
Side Dishes
Pair this German Apple Pie Recipe with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comfort dessert. Alternatively, a spoonful of crème fraîche or a drizzle of caramel sauce adds a dreamy decadence. If you want something lighter, a fresh fruit salad or a crisp green salad with tart vinaigrette can complement the richness beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to wow guests, serve individual slices on pretty plates with a drizzle of warm caramel or a dusting of cinnamon sugar. For festive occasions, top with thin apple slices fanned out and lightly brushed with honey or apricot jam for a shiny glaze. You can even bake this pie in small ramekins for personalized servings—perfect for intimate dinners or special treats.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover German Apple Pie Recipe covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil at room temperature for up to two days. If your kitchen is warm, storing it in the refrigerator is best to keep the custard fresh and prevent spoilage. Just make sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
Freezing
You can freeze this pie whole or in slices. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. Frozen pie is best enjoyed within 2 months. To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight and then let it come to room temperature before reheating or serving cold.
Reheating
Reheat slices gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes to warm through without drying out the custard or crust. Avoid the microwave as it can make the custard rubbery and the crust soggy. A low and slow approach ensures you enjoy each bite just like fresh-baked.
FAQs
What type of apples work best for German Apple Pie Recipe?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are perfect for this pie because they hold their shape while baking and offer a nice balance of tartness and sweetness. Feel free to experiment with other firm apples you enjoy!
Can I make the crust ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to two days in advance and keep it wrapped in the refrigerator, or freeze it for up to a month. Just thaw it in the fridge before rolling out.
Is this pie gluten-free friendly?
The traditional recipe calls for all-purpose flour, but you can substitute a gluten-free baking blend for both the crust and filling thickening with success. Be sure to follow the blend’s instructions for best results.
How can I tell when the German Apple Pie Recipe is done baking?
The custard should be set and no longer jiggly in the center, and the crust should be golden brown. If you insert a toothpick into the custard, it should come out mostly clean, not wet with custard.
Can I add nuts or raisins to the filling?
Definitely! Adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or raisins can bring extra texture and flavor. Stir them into the apple mixture before assembling the pie for delightful surprises in every slice.
Final Thoughts
This German Apple Pie Recipe is one of those timeless desserts that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. Its harmonious blend of tart apples, fragrant spices, and luscious custard inside a flaky crust makes it a standout any time of year. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself reaching for it again and again, sharing it with loved ones and savoring every bite. So, don’t hesitate—pull out your rolling pin and dive into making this cherished recipe today!
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German Apple Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Description
This classic German Apple Pie features a buttery, flaky crust filled with a spiced apple mixture and topped with a rich custard. Perfectly balanced with cinnamon and nutmeg, this dessert is baked until golden and set, offering a comforting and delicious treat that serves eight.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3–4 tablespoons ice water
For the Apple Filling
- 6 cups thinly sliced, peeled apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
For the Custard Topping
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust: In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Ice Water: Add ice water one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough starts to come together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to chill.
- Roll Out Dough: Lightly flour a surface and roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Place the dough into the pan, trim the edges, and refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the pie later.
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, toss the thinly sliced and peeled apples with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and lemon juice until the apples are evenly coated and the mixture is well combined.
- Make the Custard: In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and flour until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Assemble the Pie: Spread the apple filling evenly in the prepared pie crust in the pan.
- Add Custard Topping: Pour the custard mixture over the apple filling, ensuring it seeps through and fills all gaps for an even custard layer.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes, or until the custard is fully set and the crust turns a golden brown color.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely before slicing and serving to let the custard firm up and flavors meld together.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith or sweet-tart Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
- Ensure the butter is very cold when mixing the crust to achieve a flaky texture.
- The custard should be poured gently over the apples to avoid disturbing the filling.
- Letting the pie cool completely before slicing helps the custard set properly for clean slices.
- If the crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil halfway through baking to prevent burning.
