Simmered apple juice thickens the filling of this Golden Delicious apple pie into a glossy, cinnamon-scented layer that slices clean and holds its shape.
Golden Delicious apples don’t get enough credit in the pie department. Their mellow sweetness and low acidity let warm spices shine without a sharp bite, and they hold their shape better than you might expect. Here, they simmer in apple juice with cinnamon and apple pie spice until tender and glossy, then cool into a thick, spoonable filling that sets up beautifully in the oven. It smells like fall on overdrive—sweet, fruity steam laced with spice—and tastes even better, thanks to a splash of vanilla stirred in at the end.
The crust pulls its weight too. Made with an unapologetic amount of cold butter, it bakes into flaky layers that crackle when you slice through them, but still have enough structure to support the jammy filling. A quick brush of beaten egg gives the top a golden sheen, and if you like, a scoop of vanilla ice cream melts slowly into the warm wedges, pooling at the edges. It’s a pie that manages to feel nostalgic and fresh at the same time—simple, but not boring.
Golden Delicious Apple Pie Ingredients
- Golden delicious apples
- Apple juice
- Sugar
- Ground cinnamon
- Apple pie spice
- Cornstarch
- Vanilla extract
Crust:
- All-purpose flour
- Salt
- Cold butter
- Ice water
- A large egg
- Optional: Vanilla ice cream
Directions
Step 1: Cook the apple filling
In a large saucepan, combine the apples, 3/4 cup of the apple juice, the sugar, cinnamon and apple pie spice, then bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Combine the cornstarch and the remaining apple juice, and add it to the saucepan. Return the pan to a boil, stirring constantly. Cook and stir for one minute more, or until thickened. Remove the pan from the heat, and stir in the vanilla. Let it cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally.
Step 2: Make the pie crust
Combine the flour and salt, then cut in the butter until the mixture is crumbly. Gradually add the water, 1 tablespoon at a time, tossing with a fork until the dough can be formed into a ball. Divide the dough into two portions, making one portion slightly larger.
Step 3: Assemble the pie
Preheat the oven to 400°F. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the larger portion of dough. Line a 9-inch pie plate with the bottom crust, then trim it evenly with the edge of the plate. Add the filling. Roll out the remaining dough to fit the top of the pie, and place it over the filling. Trim, seal and flute the edges. If desired, brush the top crust with the beaten egg. Cut slits in the top.