21 Simple Apple Pie Creations

The Ultimate Collection of 21 Irresistible Apple Pie Recipes: From Classic Comfort to Creative Twists

Savor the quintessential taste of fall and year-round comfort with this extensive collection of quick and easy apple pie recipes, perfect for transforming any ordinary evening into a cozy delight or elevating a festive gathering. The timeless pairing of sweet, tart apples and warm, aromatic cinnamon comes together in a symphony of flavors and textures across these diverse interpretations of apple pie. Whether your heart yearns for the nostalgic charm of a traditional, impossibly flaky double crust, the comforting richness of a crumb-topped marvel, or a truly unique and innovative creation, you’re about to discover your new favorite way to enjoy this beloved dessert.

bowl of apples with lattice topped pie

Is there any dessert more universally cherished than a warm, bubbling apple pie? This iconic American classic holds a special place in our hearts, embodying warmth, comfort, and homemade goodness. If you’re a devoted fan of apple pie, you’re in for a treat! Our mission was to unearth and compile a selection of exceptional apple pie recipes, and the sheer variety and ingenuity within this humble dessert category truly astonished us. Beyond just sweet simplicity, apple pie offers a canvas for endless creativity, making it a perennial favorite for bakers of all skill levels.

After an extensive search, we’ve curated an incredible list of twenty-one of the very best and easiest apple pie recipes available. This collection spans the spectrum, from timeless classics like traditional American double-crust, rich Dutch, and unique Swedish versions, to surprisingly innovative modern creations such as a delightful pizza-inspired apple pie. No matter your preference, you’ll find a recipe here that speaks to your sweet tooth and inspires your baking.

For those who adore the familiar embrace of a traditional double-crust pie, our selection includes options like hearty deep-dish variations, expansive slab pies perfect for feeding a crowd, or charming mini hand-pies for individual indulgence. If you’re eager to master the art of a beautifully woven lattice top, we even have a recipe complete with a comprehensive tutorial to guide you every step of the way. Looking for something incredibly quick and fuss-free? A decadent cream apple pie or a satisfying crustless pie might be your ideal choice, delivering all the flavor with minimal effort. And for those planning a dessert buffet or seeking a novel treat, how about trying apple pie enchiladas or adorable mini apple pies that are as delightful to look at as they are to eat?

One of the most remarkable discoveries in compiling these apple pie recipes is just how accessible and surprisingly simple it can be to prepare this all-time favorite dessert. Every single recipe featured below has been carefully chosen and is designed with both enthusiastic beginners and seasoned bakers in mind. They promise truly delicious, show-stopping results with minimal fuss and effort, making homemade apple pie a joy rather than a chore.

With clear, easy-to-follow instructions and ingredients that are readily available in any grocery store, you genuinely can whip up an array of mouth-watering apple pies right from the comfort of your own kitchen. These recipes are guaranteed to be an instant hit, earning rave reviews from your family and friends and creating lasting memories around the dessert table. Get ready to embrace the warmth and wonder of homemade apple pie!

slice of apple pie from above on red transferware plate

1. Crumb Topped Apple Pie – Bake Now or Freeze for Later

Indulge in the sheer delight of a truly exceptional Dutch apple pie, renowned for its rich, crumbly topping and perfectly spiced apple filling. This particular recipe elevates the experience by offering incredible flexibility: it’s not just “lick-the-plate good,” it’s designed for convenience, making it a dream come true for both spontaneous dessert cravings and meticulously planned holiday feasts. Imagine the aroma of warm apples and cinnamon filling your kitchen – whether you’ve baked it fresh or pulled it straight from the freezer.

The secret to its success lies in its amazing make-ahead potential. You can assemble this glorious pie, tuck it unbaked into your freezer, and then, whenever the moment strikes, simply transfer it to the oven directly from its frozen state. No thawing required! This ingenious method consistently delivers a beautifully golden-brown crust and a perfectly tender, bubbling apple interior every single time. It’s an absolute game-changer for busy holiday seasons, allowing you to get a head start on your baking without compromising on freshness or flavor. Beyond the holidays, it serves as a wonderful solution for stress-free entertaining or simply treating yourself and your loved ones to an easy, homemade dessert on any given evening. Prepare to make this crumb-topped masterpiece a cherished addition to your recipe collection, offering both sublime taste and unparalleled convenience.

2. Double Crust Iron Skillet Apple Pie

Take your classic apple pie experience to a whole new level with this inventive recipe for a Double Crust Iron Skillet Apple Pie. This rendition offers a delightful upgrade to the traditional dessert, not only providing a stunning presentation but also enhancing the flavor and texture significantly. The secret lies in a unique brown sugar caramel bottom crust, which achieves an unparalleled crispness and depth of flavor thanks to the consistent, even heat of a cast iron skillet. As the pie bakes, the sugars caramelize against the hot iron, creating a wonderfully chewy and slightly crunchy base that perfectly complements the tender, spiced apple filling. The double crust ensures a robust structure, holding in all the juicy goodness, while the skillet provides a beautiful, rustic aesthetic that transitions seamlessly from oven to table. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a comforting yet elevated homemade apple pie with a touch of old-world charm and an irresistible buttery, sweet crust.

3. Skillet Dutch Apple Pie

Craving a warm, comforting apple pie but short on time? This Skillet Dutch Apple Pie is your answer! Designed for ultimate convenience without sacrificing flavor, this recipe ingeniously utilizes a store-bought crust, drastically cutting down on prep time. Paired with a luscious brown sugar crumb topping that bakes to golden perfection, it creates a satisfying contrast between the tender apples and the sweet, crunchy streusel. Baking it in a skillet not only adds a charming rustic appeal but also helps ensure even baking and a beautifully caramelized bottom. This quick-to-make skillet apple pie is perfect for even busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy a delightful homemade dessert with minimal effort. It’s an ideal solution when you want that comforting apple pie experience without the fuss of making everything from scratch, proving that delicious desserts don’t always require hours in the kitchen.

4. Classic Apple Pie Recipe

For those who believe nothing beats the timeless perfection of a traditional apple pie, this “My Favorite Apple Pie” recipe is an absolute must-try. It embodies everything you love about the classic American dessert, starting with an exquisite all-butter crust that bakes up incredibly flaky, golden, and rich with buttery flavor. The filling is a harmonious blend of perfectly spiced apples, tender yet holding their shape, nestled within that glorious crust. What truly sets this recipe apart is its comprehensive tutorial for crafting a stunning lattice top. This elegant design not only looks impressive but also allows steam to escape, ensuring a perfectly cooked filling and crisp crust. Whether you’re a novice baker looking to impress or a seasoned pro refining your technique, this recipe provides all the guidance needed to achieve a show-stopping, deliciously classic apple pie that will become a cherished family favorite. It’s a true testament to the beauty of simplicity and quality ingredients.

5. Apple Lover’s Apple Pie

Prepare yourself for an apple pie experience that truly lives up to its name: the “Apple Lover’s Apple Pie.” This isn’t just a pie; it’s a celebration of apples, designed for those who believe that more apple is always better. This magnificent double-crust pie is absolutely chock-full of apples, requiring a generous five pounds of fruit to achieve its bountiful filling. The abundance of apples ensures a profoundly fruity flavor in every bite, perfectly balanced by warming spices. One of the ingenious techniques employed in this recipe is the pre-cooking of the apple filling. This crucial step is a game-changer, addressing two common apple pie woes: preventing undercooked, crunchy apples and eliminating the dreaded soggy bottom crust. By gently cooking the apples first, they soften slightly and release some of their moisture, ensuring a tender texture and a perfectly set filling after baking. The result is a substantial, intensely apple-flavored pie with a beautifully baked crust that remains flaky and crisp, even under the weight of so much delicious fruit. It’s a robust and deeply satisfying pie, perfect for true apple aficionados.

6. Copycat McDonald’s Apple Pies

Bring a nostalgic taste of your favorite fast-food treat right into your home with these utterly charming Copycat McDonald’s Apple Pies! These delightful hand pies are sure to be a massive hit at any fall gathering, potluck, or simply as a fun, bite-sized dessert for the family. What makes this recipe truly fantastic is its incredible speed and simplicity. By utilizing readily available store-bought puff pastry for the crusts, you can bypass the time-consuming process of making dough from scratch. This clever shortcut means you can have these golden, flaky, fruit-filled treats assembled, baked, and ready to enjoy in under an hour! Each pie encases a warm, sweet apple filling in a tender, crisp pastry shell, offering that satisfying crunch and comforting flavor profile reminiscent of the iconic original. They’re perfectly portioned for individual enjoyment, making them ideal for kids and adults alike, and a wonderfully fun way to enjoy apple pie with a unique, handheld twist.

7. Easy Dutch Apple Slab Pie Recipe

When you need to feed a crowd without compromising on the deliciousness of homemade apple pie, this Easy Dutch Apple Slab Pie is the perfect solution. This recipe ingeniously takes the beloved crumb-topped apple pie and transforms it into a large-format dessert, baked in a jelly roll pan. The result is a generous, easy-to-slice pie with plenty of crisp, buttery crumb topping and a tender apple filling, making it ideal for large family dinners, holiday events, or any significant gathering. To further simplify the process and save precious time, this recipe smartly incorporates store-bought pie crusts for the base. However, for those who prefer to add a personal touch and enjoy the superior flavor of homemade, you could easily make your own all-butter crust fairly quickly to elevate this slab pie even further. This pie offers the classic flavors and comforting appeal of Dutch apple pie, but in a convenient, crowd-pleasing format that’s incredibly easy to serve.

8. Apple Slab Pie

From the renowned culinary genius of Smitten Kitchen comes this utterly fantastic Apple Slab Pie – a recipe that takes the beloved classic apple pie and reimagines it as a giant, deliciously flaky “pop tart.” This large-format pie is designed specifically for those occasions when you need to effortlessly feed a substantial gathering, offering all the comforting flavors of traditional apple pie in a more accessible and easily shareable form. Baked on a baking sheet, it provides a sprawling canvas for a generous apple filling nestled between two layers of beautifully tender and flaky crust. The expansive surface area ensures that every slice delivers a perfect ratio of golden crust to spiced apple filling, with those delightful crispy edges that everyone loves. It’s incredibly satisfying, looks impressive, and eliminates the fuss of individual pie slices, making serving a breeze. This is a brilliant recipe for potlucks, parties, or any time you want to delight a crowd with a truly spectacular and effortlessly delicious homemade apple dessert.

9. Easy Apple Pie Bars (with Crumble Topping)

When the craving for apple pie strikes, but you need something a little more practical and portable than a traditional slice, these Easy Apple Pie Bars are absolutely perfect. Ideal for potlucks, picnics, school lunches, or simply as a less messy snack, these bars offer all the comforting flavors of classic apple pie in a convenient, handheld format. Made entirely from scratch, they boast a delightful crumble topping that doubles as the crust, creating a wonderfully cohesive and flavorful base. The ingenious design means less fuss with delicate pie dough and more time enjoying the sweet, spiced apple filling encased within a buttery, crumbly embrace. Each bar offers a perfect balance of tender apples and crisp topping, making them incredibly satisfying. They’re simple to prepare, easy to cut and serve, and travel beautifully, ensuring that the deliciousness of homemade apple pie is always within reach, wherever you go. This recipe is a fantastic alternative for those who love the taste of apple pie but prefer a fuss-free, grab-and-go option.

10. Apple Crumb Crostata (Rustic Apple Pie)

Embrace the rustic charm and effortless elegance of an Apple Crumb Crostata, a fabulous alternative to traditional apple pie, especially when you prefer to skip the fuss of a pie plate. This free-form, open-faced tart is a true showstopper, offering a more casual yet equally impressive presentation. It features a delectable brown butter apple filling, infusing the fruit with a nutty, rich depth of flavor that is simply irresistible. This is nestled within a tender, buttery pie crust, which is then generously crowned with an oat and brown sugar topping, providing a delightful crunch and extra sweetness. The beauty of a crostata lies in its forgiving nature – no need for perfect crimping or elaborate designs; its slightly irregular shape adds to its artisanal appeal. Served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and generously drizzled with homemade caramel topping, this dessert is transformed into an extraordinary culinary experience. It’s the ideal choice for those seeking a sophisticated yet straightforward apple dessert that truly shines.

11. Salted Caramel Apple Pie

Prepare your taste buds for an elevated twist on a beloved classic with this truly decadent Salted Caramel Apple Pie. This isn’t just an apple pie with a drizzle of caramel on top; it’s a deeply infused creation where the rich, buttery flavor of salted caramel is baked directly into the apple filling itself. Each succulent slice promises an explosion of sweet and salty notes, with every bite delivering that exquisite, gooey caramel goodness perfectly intertwined with tender, spiced apples. The salted caramel complements the natural sweetness and tartness of the apples beautifully, adding a sophisticated depth that makes this pie utterly irresistible. Encased in a flaky, golden crust, the filling remains wonderfully moist and flavorful. This pie is a luxurious indulgence, perfect for special occasions or when you simply want to treat yourself and your loved ones to an extraordinary dessert that combines the best of both apple pie and rich caramel candy. It’s a true masterpiece for those who adore the combination of fruit and caramel.

12. Apple Pie Enchiladas

For a truly unique and incredibly fun fall dessert, look no further than these inventive Apple Pie Enchiladas. This recipe offers a brilliant shortcut, allowing you to bypass the traditional pie crust entirely and instead use soft tortillas as your delightful wrapper. Each tortilla is generously filled with a sweet, spiced apple pie filling, rolled up like a savory enchilada, and then baked until golden and crisp. The magic happens in the oven, where the tortillas transform into tender, slightly chewy vessels holding the warm, bubbly apple goodness. Once baked to perfection, these “enchiladas” are generously drizzled with a rich caramel sauce, adding another layer of sweetness and sticky indulgence. This creative dessert is not only surprisingly easy to make but also offers a fantastic presentation, making it a conversation starter at any gathering. It’s a wonderful option for those seeking an approachable, less conventional way to enjoy all the beloved flavors of apple pie in a playful and delicious new format.

13. Deep Dish Dutch Apple Pie

Prepare for an impressive and generously portioned dessert with this Deep Dish Dutch Apple Pie. Designed to truly live up to its “deep dish” name, this pie is baked in a springform pan, allowing for an extraordinary height and an abundance of rich, spiced apple filling. This particular recipe offers a clever shortcut by utilizing a premade canned pie filling, making it an excellent choice for those moments when time is of the essence but you still desire that comforting, homemade taste. If you’re a seasoned preserver and happen to have your own homemade canned pie filling stocked, this recipe becomes an absolute dream, allowing you to quickly assemble a magnificent pie with minimal effort. The deep dish format means more tender apples and plenty of delicious crumb topping in every slice, providing a hearty and satisfying dessert that’s perfect for family gatherings or any occasion that calls for a truly substantial sweet treat. It’s a testament to convenience meeting deliciousness.

14. The EASIEST Apple Cream Pie

Discover the sheer simplicity and creamy indulgence of “The EASIEST Apple Cream Pie,” a delightful take on a German apple pie that promises rich flavor with surprisingly little effort. This unique recipe deviates from the traditional thick apple pie filling, instead featuring large, tender pieces of apple that are lovingly coated in a fragrant cinnamon-sugar mixture. The magic happens when these spiced apples are then enveloped by a luscious, pourable heavy cream mixture before baking. As it bakes, the cream transforms into a delicate, custardy layer that infuses every apple bite with unparalleled richness and a silky smooth texture. The result is a wonderfully comforting and sophisticated dessert that combines the fruitiness of apple pie with the luxuriousness of a creamy custard. It’s a fantastic choice for those who appreciate a less dense, incredibly moist apple dessert that comes together with remarkable ease. Prepare to be amazed by how such a simple combination of ingredients can yield such an incredibly flavorful and satisfying pie.

15. Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Prepare to have your senses utterly captivated by this truly incredible Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie! This innovative dessert seamlessly merges two beloved classics into one magnificent creation, resulting in a pie that is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Instead of a traditional pie crust, the top of this pie is adorned with individual mini “cinnamon rolls,” crafted from dough that bakes into a wonderfully soft, sweet, and cinnamon-spiced crust. Imagine the delightful aroma filling your kitchen as these golden spirals bake, releasing their warm, sugary fragrance. Below this captivating topping lies a perfectly spiced and tender apple filling, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. The cinnamon roll crust provides a delightful chewiness and an extra boost of cinnamon goodness, making every bite a rich, comforting experience. This pie offers a fun and unique presentation that’s perfect for holidays or special occasions, guaranteeing gasps of delight and eager smiles from anyone lucky enough to try a slice. It’s an unforgettable dessert that combines comfort and creativity in one beautiful package.

16. Mini Apple Pies

For an adorable and perfectly portioned serving of apple pie, these Mini Apple Pies are an absolute dream! Ideal for dessert tables, holiday buffets, or simply as a delightful individual treat, these bite-sized wonders pack all the comforting flavor of a full-sized pie into a charming miniature form. The recipe cleverly utilizes pie dough crusts, which are pressed into mini muffin tins, creating perfectly shaped, individual bases. Each little pie is then filled with a sweet, spiced apple mixture and crowned with a crisp, buttery crumble topping, adding a wonderful textural contrast. These mini pies are incredibly easy to eat, requiring no plates or forks, and their smaller size means less guilt (or simply room for more!). They’re fantastic for entertaining, allowing guests to easily pick up and enjoy a warm, homemade apple pie without the commitment of a large slice. Prepare to charm everyone with these cute, delicious, and convenient mini apple pies that are big on flavor.

17. Snickerdoodle Cream Cheese Apple Pie

When your dessert cravings lean towards something truly decadent and extra special, this Snickerdoodle Cream Cheese Apple Pie is the ultimate indulgence. This innovative recipe takes comfort food to a luxurious new level by combining the beloved flavors of a snickerdoodle cookie with the creamy richness of cheesecake and the classic appeal of apple pie. The foundation of this extraordinary pie is a delightful snickerdoodle crust, which bakes up with that signature cinnamon-sugar crunch and buttery tenderness. Resting atop this flavorful crust is a luscious cream cheese layer, adding a tangy, smooth contrast that elevates the entire dessert. Finally, generous layers of perfectly spiced apples complete this magnificent creation. The interplay of textures and flavors – the crisp snickerdoodle, the silky cream cheese, and the tender fruit – creates an unforgettable culinary experience. This pie is a guaranteed showstopper, perfect for impressing guests or simply treating yourself to an opulent dessert that truly delivers on flavor and richness. Yum, indeed!

18. Apple Cranberry Pie

Add a vibrant, festive twist to your classic apple pie with this delightful Apple Cranberry Pie. This recipe masterfully combines the comforting familiarity of spiced apples with the bright, sweet-tart burst of cranberries, creating a dessert that is both traditional and exciting. The cranberries not only introduce a wonderful depth of tangy flavor that beautifully cuts through the sweetness of the apples but also impart a stunning festive holiday color, making this pie an eye-catching centerpiece for any autumnal or winter gathering. The combination of fruits creates a dynamic flavor profile, ensuring each bite is full of complexity and warmth. Encased in a perfectly flaky crust, this pie offers a beautiful balance of sweet, tart, and spiced notes, making it an ideal choice for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any occasion where you want to add a touch of seasonal cheer. It’s a wonderful way to elevate a classic and enjoy the delicious synergy of two beloved fall fruits.

19. Caramel Apple Pie Dessert Pizza

Get ready for a super fun, incredibly quick, and utterly delicious weeknight apple pie idea with this Caramel Apple Pie Dessert Pizza! This creative recipe ingeniously merges the beloved flavors of apple pie with the casual, crowd-pleasing format of a pizza, making it perfect for spontaneous desserts or a family treat. The key to its speed is using thin pizza crusts as the base, eliminating any need for making pie dough from scratch. Simply spread a generous layer of canned apple pie filling over the crust, add a simple yet irresistible topping, and bake until golden and bubbly. In about 30 minutes, you’ll have a warm, fragrant dessert that delivers all the comforting apple pie flavor we adore, complete with gooey caramel notes. It’s a fantastic recipe for kids to help with, versatile for customization, and offers a novel way to enjoy a classic dessert without all the fuss. This dessert pizza is proof that delicious homemade treats can be incredibly fast and easy!

20. Swedish Apple Pie (Crustless)

If you’re an apple pie enthusiast who prefers to skip the fuss of making a traditional crust but still craves that warm, comforting “pie” experience, then Swedish Apple Pie is your delightful answer! This unique and incredibly easy crustless recipe offers a fantastic alternative, creating a dessert that is a wonderful cross between a moist cake and a classic pie. It features tender, spiced apples nestled beneath a generous, buttery, and slightly crisp batter topping. As it bakes, the batter puffs up and goldenizes, forming a delicious, cake-like crust that perfectly complements the soft, flavorful fruit below. There’s no rolling, crimping, or worrying about soggy bottoms here – just simple mixing and baking for a surprisingly elegant result. The spiced apples infuse the cakey topping with their aroma, creating a dessert that’s effortlessly comforting and utterly delicious. It’s an excellent choice for a quick weeknight treat or a simple yet satisfying dessert for guests who appreciate wholesome, homemade flavors without the traditional pastry. Enjoy the simplicity and exceptional taste of this charming Swedish classic.

21. Caramel Apple Pecan Streusel Pie

Elevate the beloved crumb-topped pie to new heights of deliciousness with this irresistible Caramel Apple Pecan Streusel Pie. This recipe introduces a delightful textural and flavor dimension by incorporating crunchy pecans into the already fantastic streusel topping. The addition of toasted pecans provides a nutty richness and a satisfying bite that contrasts beautifully with the tender, spiced apple filling below. Each spoonful offers a harmonious blend of soft, warm apples, sweet, buttery streusel, and the distinct crunch of pecans. To truly complete this autumnal masterpiece, it’s recommended to serve this pie warm, generously drizzled with a decadent caramel sauce, and accompanied by a scoop of luscious vanilla ice cream. The melting ice cream and flowing caramel create an extraordinary symphony of temperatures and tastes, making this dessert an absolute showstopper. It’s the perfect fall dessert for gatherings, holidays, or any occasion that calls for a truly memorable and indulgent apple pie experience.

Even More Apple Recipes to Explore

If these incredible apple pie recipes have sparked your passion for baking with apples, you’re in luck! The versatility of this beloved fruit extends far beyond pies, offering a wealth of culinary possibilities for every meal of the day. From hearty breakfast options to unique canning projects, apples bring their distinct sweetness and tartness to an array of dishes. Dive deeper into the wonderful world of apple-infused cuisine with these additional curated recipes, perfect for utilizing your harvest or simply enjoying the crisp, comforting flavors of apples in new and exciting ways.

  • 25 Of The Best Apple Breakfast Recipes
  • Easy Cinnamon Oat Apple Bread (Whole Wheat, Honey Sweetened)
  • 3 Unique Recipes for Canning Apples (Including A Marmalade and A Chutney)

We hope this comprehensive collection of apple pie recipes has inspired you to grab your apron and start baking! Whether you lean towards the comforting familiarity of a classic, the rustic charm of a crostata, or the innovative twist of a dessert pizza, there’s an apple pie here for every palate and occasion. Enjoy the process of creating these delightful desserts, and share the warmth and joy of homemade apple pie with everyone you love. Happy baking!

pies and apples