Basic Fruit Pie
A warm, comforting fruit pie featuring sweet apples and fragrant cinnamon, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dessert with a classic homemade flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine sugar, cornstarch, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Add sliced, pared, cored apples to the bowl and toss to coat.
- Add lemon juice to the apple mixture and stir well.
- Pour the apple filling into a prepared pie crust.
- Dot the filling with margarine.
- Bake in a 425°F oven for 50 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. You can substitute the margarine with butter for a more traditional taste. If you prefer a thicker filling, increase the cornstarch to 1.5 tablespoons. To enhance the flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract to the apple mixture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Basic Fruit Pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert. It pairs beautifully with Cranberry Spiced Tea for a cozy evening. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside Poppy Seed Dressing (Sweet) for a contrasting side dish that complements the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pie in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through. If the crust gets too dark, cover it with foil while baking to prevent burning. Enjoy cold or warm, as both are delicious options.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Basic Fruit Pie contains roughly 1447 calories, with 2g protein, 340g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (19% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (18% of the Daily Value), and iron (11% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 5g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen apples for this pie?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but be sure to thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the filling. This helps maintain the pie's texture and prevents a soggy crust.
What type of pie crust is best for this recipe?
A pre-made or homemade flaky pie crust works well for this recipe. If you're short on time, a store-bought crust is a convenient option. For a healthier twist, consider using a whole wheat crust or a gluten-free alternative.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this Basic Fruit Pie vegan, simply replace the margarine with a plant-based butter or coconut oil. Ensure that your pie crust is also vegan-friendly, as many store-bought options contain dairy. This way, you can enjoy a delicious vegan dessert without compromising on flavor!
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).