Apple pie

What is Apple pie?

Apple pie is a dessert where apples are baked inside a pastry shell, often with a top crust that can be solid or woven in a lattice pattern. The apples may be fresh, dried, or preserved, and are usually mixed with sugar and spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg. The pastry is typically shortcrust, though puff pastry and filo are used in some versions. The pie can be served hot or cold, and is sometimes topped with cream, custard, or ice cream. Its filling can be tart or sweet, depending on the apple variety and amount of sugar used.

Where does Apple pie come from?

The earliest known apple pie recipe is from 14th-century England, where it included apples, spices, figs, raisins, and pears. Over time, apple pie became common wherever apples were grown, spreading through Europe and later to North America with settlers. Each region developed its own style, such as the crumb-topped Dutch apple pie and the French tarte Tatin. In the United States, apple pie became a symbol of national identity, even though its origins are European.

How is Apple pie made?

To make apple pie, apples are peeled, sliced, and mixed with sugar, spices like cinnamon, and sometimes lemon juice or a thickener such as egg or corn starch. The filling is placed in a pastry-lined dish, then covered with another layer of pastry, which may be solid or latticed. The pie is baked until the crust is golden and the apples are soft. Some recipes call for blind-baking the base to keep it crisp. Butter is often added in American versions for richness.

How and when is Apple pie eaten?

Apple pie is usually eaten as a dessert or snack. In the UK, it is commonly served with custard or cream, while in the US, it is often enjoyed à la mode, meaning with a scoop of ice cream. In some regions, a slice of sharp cheese is placed on top. The pie can be eaten hot or cold, and is popular both at home and in restaurants. Miniature versions are sold in supermarkets and convenience stores.

Kinds of Apple pie

Many countries have their own versions of apple pie. Dutch apple pie comes in crumb-topped and lattice-topped forms, often with raisins and almond paste. French styles include tarte Tatin, where apples are caramelized and baked under the pastry, and tarte aux pommes with puff pastry. In Poland, szarlotka uses spiced shredded apple and a crumble or pastry topping. Swedish äppelpaj is more like a crumble, sometimes using oats or breadcrumbs.

What Apple pie means

Apple pie is closely linked to American culture, symbolizing prosperity and national pride. The phrase "as American as apple pie" reflects its status. It has appeared in literature, music, and advertising, and is part of celebrations such as the Fourth of July. Fast-food versions, like those from McDonald's, are widely recognized. In England and other countries, it is seen as a comfort food and is often associated with home baking and family gatherings.

Questions people ask about Apple pie

Good reading and sources

• Apple Pie Is Not All That AmericanSmithsonian Magazine, Article
• Putting on the RitzSaveur, Article
• Tarte tatin with soured cream shortcrust pastryBBC, Recipe

• Apple pie on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos
• Wikidata recordOpen data