Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
A slice of French apple pie topped with whipped cream and caramel sauce on a rustic table.

What Is French Apple Pie Made Of? A Complete Guide


  • Author: Vera
  • Total Time: 70 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This sweet and buttery French apple pie features tender, caramelized apple slices nestled in a flaky homemade crust. A hint of warm spices complements the natural sweetness of the apples, creating a classic dessert that is both comforting and elegant.


Ingredients

Scale

Crust

  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
  • 68 tablespoons ice-cold water

Filling

  • 56 medium apples (Golden Delicious or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and sliced
  • ½ cup sugar (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • 2 tablespoons butter, for sautéing
  • ¼ cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional thickener)

Optional glaze

  • 1 egg, lightly beaten
  • 1 tablespoon milk

Instructions

Prepare the dough

  • Initially combine flour, salt, and sugar in a bowl.
  • Add cold butter cubes.
  • Use a pastry cutter or your fingertips to create a crumbly texture.
  • Drizzle in ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time.
  • Stir gently until the dough just comes together.
  • Form into two discs, wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Pre-cook the apples

  • Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a pan over medium heat.
  • Add sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  • Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the apples soften slightly.
  • Optionally sprinkle flour if your apples release too much liquid.
  • Remove from heat and let cool.*

Roll out the dough

  • Lightly flour your work surface to prevent sticking.
  • After that, roll one disc of dough into a circle large enough for your pie dish.
  • Then, gently press it into the dish, leaving any excess hanging over the edges.
  • Finally, if you are making a covered pie, roll the second disc to a similar size.

Assemble the pie

  • Spread the cooled apple filling evenly over the bottom crust.
  • Then, drizzle heavy cream on top of the apples.
  • If using a top crust, place it over the filling.
  • Pinch or crimp the edges to seal.
  • Trim any excess dough.
  • Cut small slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape.

Notes

  • Variations: You can omit the heavy cream in the filling for a lighter version. You may also add a pinch of cloves or cardamom if you enjoy more pronounced spice.
  • Dietary Tips: To make this recipe vegetarian-friendly, ensure the butter you use is not mixed with animal rennet. For a dairy-free variation, use vegan butter alternatives and skip the cream.
  • Serving Suggestions: A drizzle of caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs excellently with this French apple pie.
  • Allergies/Intolerances: Contains wheat and dairy. Use gluten-free flour and dairy-free butter substitutes if needed.
  • Texture Adjustments: For a softer filling, cook the apples a bit longer before baking. For a firmer filling, reduce the sauté time.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Oven
  • Cuisine: French

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/8 of recipe (one slice)
  • Calories: ~350 kcal
  • Sugar: ~22 g
  • Sodium: ~180 mg
  • Fat: ~17 g
  • Saturated Fat: ~10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: ~6 g
  • Trans Fat: ~0 g
  • Carbohydrates: ~47 g
  • Fiber: ~3 g
  • Protein: ~5 g
  • Cholesterol: ~55 mg