German Apple Pie Recipe
If you’re hunting for a dessert that feels both homey and spectacular, let me introduce you to the magic that is German Apple Pie. It’s not your average apple pie—this one skips the top crust and instead swaddles the apples in a velvety-rich cream filling that bakes up golden, bubbly, and almost custardy. Tender tart apples, warming spices, and a decadent, creamy finish make every slice beg for another. If you’re searching for a showstopper, trust me: this is the one you’ll proudly share at every gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Pie Crust:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch deep-dish pie crust
Apple Filling:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Cream Mixture:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make German Apple Pie
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Crust
Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C). There’s nothing quite like the anticipation while the kitchen gets cozy, filled with the promise of buttery pie. Place that deep-dish pie crust on a sturdy baking sheet—this pie likes to bubble over a bit, and the sheet will save you any mess.
Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Time to show the apples some love! Peel, core, and thinly slice six medium apples. Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are fantastic here because their tartness stands up to the creamy filling. Arrange the slices evenly in the unbaked crust, layering them gently so you’ll get apples in every bite.
Step 3: Mix the Cream Filling
Grab a medium bowl and whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg until no lumps remain. Now, stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract to create a smooth, pourable cream. This is your golden ticket to that luscious German Apple Pie texture.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Slowly pour the cream mixture all over the apples. Let it seep into every nook and cranny—the apples will swim in this sweet, creamy bath and bake up beautifully rich. Don’t worry if the filling comes close to the top; it settles as it bakes.
Step 5: Bake It Up
Slip your prepared pie (still on the baking sheet) into the oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes. The hardest part is waiting while the aroma fills the house! You’re looking for the filling to be bubbly and set, with a deep golden top. If the crust edges brown too quickly, tent them loosely with foil.
Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Once it’s out (it will look irresistibly gooey), let the German Apple Pie cool at room temperature for at least two hours. This little rest is essential—it helps the filling set up nicely so your slices are clean and the creamy custard stays intact.
How to Serve German Apple Pie
Garnishes
If you want to take your German Apple Pie over the top, a generous dollop of freshly whipped cream is absolute perfection. A scoop of vanilla ice cream turns every slice into an elegant, dreamy dessert—especially with the hint of warm spice in the pie. For added flair, sprinkle a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg over the top just before serving.
Side Dishes
This pie is gorgeous solo, but if you’re serving guests, pair each slice with a light fruit salad or a tangy dollop of crème fraîche. The contrast of cool, tangy or fruity sides really lets the creamy, spiced filling shine. For a festive touch, offer coffee or black tea alongside.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn individual slices into works of art by plating with a caramel drizzle or a scattering of toasted pecans. For gatherings, bake the pie in mini tart pans for charming single-servings, or cut the pie into slim wedges and serve on a slate board for a beautiful dessert spread. German Apple Pie looks stunning garnished with fresh apple slices for that “I made this” wow factor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your German Apple Pie fresh, cover leftovers loosely with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate. The creamy filling stays delightful for up to three days, and the flavors actually deepen—a perfect late-night snack or mid-afternoon treat!
Freezing
If you want to get ahead, you can freeze German Apple Pie after baking. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and a layer of foil for extra protection. It’ll keep for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-baked magic, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds, or reheat the whole pie in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10–15 minutes. Just enough to loosen the creamy filling without drying out the crust.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Dessert
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are classic, feel free to swap in Fuji, Braeburn, or even a mix for depth. Just aim for apples that are firm and slightly tart so they hold up during baking.
Can I make this pie with a homemade crust?
Yes! A homemade crust only adds to the charm of German Apple Pie. Use your favorite recipe for a 9-inch deep-dish crust, and make sure to prick the bottom lightly to prevent air bubbles.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute full-fat coconut cream for the heavy cream for a dairy-free take. It will have a different flavor but still provide a lovely, rich texture. Dairy-free pie crusts are widely available as well.
How do I know when the pie is done baking?
The pie is ready when the filling is gently puffed, golden brown, and bubbling around the edges. If you gently shake the pie, the center should jiggle only slightly and gradually firm up as it cools.
Can I make German Apple Pie the night before?
Yes, in fact, the flavors deepen overnight! Bake it the day before, cool thoroughly, cover, and refrigerate. Let the pie come to room temperature or gently rewarm before serving for the best results.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something special about baking this German Apple Pie that brings comfort and smiles all around. Try it once and I promise it’ll become your go-to for celebrations, family dinners, or cozy afternoons in. Give it a spot at your table—you’ll be so glad you did.
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German Apple Pie Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of this German Apple Pie that features a creamy, spiced apple filling in a flaky pie crust. Perfect for any occasion, this traditional dessert is a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
Pie Crust:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch deep-dish pie crust
Apple Filling:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Cream Mixture:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the apples: Arrange the sliced apples in the pie crust.
- Mix the filling: In a bowl, combine granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add cream and vanilla; pour over apples.
- Bake: Bake for 60-70 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Cool and serve: Allow to cool for 2 hours before slicing.
Notes
- Best served warm or at room temperature
- Pair with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 38g
- Sodium: 105mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
