Apple Pie à la Mode (Apple Pie with Ice Cream Recipe) Recipe

If you’re looking for the ultimate cozy dessert to wow your friends and family, you can stop right here because I’ve got the fan-freaking-tastic Apple Pie à la Mode (Apple Pie with Ice Cream Recipe) Recipe that will make your kitchen smell divine and your taste buds dance. This classic apple pie gets an extra twist with a perfectly flaky, buttery crust and the smooth, dreamy addition of ice cream melting on top. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll never look at apple pie the same way again!

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Apple Pie à la Mode (Apple Pie with Ice Cream Recipe) Recipe plays a role in creating that perfect harmony of textures and flavors. When choosing apples, I always recommend Pink Lady or Fuji because they hold their shape and bring a refreshing sweetness.

• All-purpose flour: Use good-quality flour for a tender, flaky crust.
• Granulated sugar: Adds just enough sweetness to the crust without overpowering.
• Salt: Enhances all the other flavors, especially in the crust.
• Unsalted butter: Cold and cubed for the crust—this is your flakiness hero.
• Water: Ice-cold water binds the dough, but don’t overwork it to keep it tender.
• Apples (Pink Lady, Royal Gala, or Fuji): Tart, crisp, and hold their texture when baked.
• Brown sugar: Gives that rich, caramel flavor to the filling and the topping.
• Ground cinnamon: A warming spice that perfectly complements the apples.
• Cornstarch: Thickens the apple juices to a luscious, honey-like consistency.
• Almond flour or finely ground nuts: Sprinkled on the crust bottom to prevent sogginess.
• Egg: To brush over the crust, achieving a golden, glossy finish.
• Vanilla ice cream: Essential for serving à la mode, adds creamy contrast.

Variations

I love how this recipe invites you to make it your own. Over time, I’ve played around with spices and fruit blends to bring new twists while keeping that classic apple pie spirit alive.

• Add Nutmeg or Cloves: When I add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves, it deepens the warmth and adds a holiday feel.
• Mix Apples: Try combining tart Granny Smith with sweeter Fuji for a more complex filling texture and flavor.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust if you or your guests need that option—it still turns out delicious!
• Try Different Ice Cream Flavors: Though vanilla reigns supreme, I sometimes go for caramel or cinnamon ice cream for a special twist.

How to Make Apple Pie à la Mode (Apple Pie with Ice Cream Recipe) Recipe

Step 1: Make the Flaky Crust with Care

Start by mixing your flour, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Then add those cold cubes of butter and gently “pinch” the mixture with your fingers until you see a mix of tiny and medium-sized butter chunks. This little textural magic is what gives you that signature flakiness I adore. When you add the water, knead just enough so the dough starts to hold—but don’t overdo it or you’ll end up with a tough crust. Wrap it tightly and chill for at least 30 minutes; trust me, patience here pays off beautifully.

Step 2: Cook the Apples Down to Perfection

While the dough chills, peel and slice your apples thick enough so they don’t turn to mush while baking. Toss them in a saucepan with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, salt, and a splash of water. As it heats, you’ll see the liquid thicken and the apples soften but still hold shape—a honey-like texture you’re aiming for here. Remove from heat and let cool completely; otherwise, the crust will get soggy.

Step 3: Assemble with Love (And Lattice!)

Divide your dough: two-thirds for the pie base and one-third for the lattice top. Roll out the base to about 3 mm thick and gently place it in your pie dish, trimming edges later. Sprinkle almond flour inside first—that’s a trick I discovered to keep the bottom crust crisp despite all that juicy apple filling. Pour in your cooled apple mixture. Roll out the reserved dough thinner this time (around 2 mm) and cut it into strips. The lattice isn’t just pretty—it lets steam escape beautifully, resulting in a perfectly baked pie. Follow the folding and weaving technique described for an impressive finish.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Glory

Brush the lattice and edges with an egg wash mixed with water—this creates a glossy, inviting crust. Sprinkle with brown sugar for that extra caramelized spark. Cover the edges with foil to prevent burning and bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 30 minutes until golden and bubbling—your cue that the filling is thick and perfectly bubbling. Let your pie cool just enough so it’s warm but not hot; when you slice it and add that scoop of ice cream, you’re in dessert heaven.

How to Serve Apple Pie à la Mode (Apple Pie with Ice Cream Recipe) Recipe

Garnishes

I’m a big fan of keeping it simple here—just a generous scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream on top does the trick beautifully. Sometimes, I’ll sprinkle a little freshly ground cinnamon or a drizzle of caramel sauce to kick it up a notch. Adding toasted chopped nuts on the side adds a fun crunch contrast to the soft filling as well.

Side Dishes

Serve this apple pie with a side of warm spiced cider or a cup of rich coffee to round out the flavor experience. For a more formal dessert spread, I like pairing it with a small green salad featuring tangy vinaigrette; the crispness cleanses the palate nicely after each indulgent bite.

Creative Ways to Present

One time, I made individual mini pies using ramekins and a lattice top, which was a huge hit at a party—everyone loved having their own little treat! Another idea is to serve slices on small dessert plates with a dusting of powdered sugar and a sprig of fresh mint for a pretty, restaurant-worthy look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually cover leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. The flavor develops even more overnight—but I like to reheat slices gently to bring back that fresh-baked warmth before serving again.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the pie, wrap it well in aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container—it freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. I found that freezing before baking works better for me so I can pop it straight into the oven when guests arrive, saving prep time!

Reheating

To reheat, I warm slices in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 15-20 minutes—it revives the crust’s crispiness without drying out the filling. Avoid microwaving if you can; it tends to make the crust soggy, which nobody wants!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Apple Pie à la Mode (Apple Pie with Ice Cream Recipe) Recipe holds a special place in my heart because it’s the kind of dessert that brings everyone together around the table, warming hearts through its simple, familiar flavors. I absolutely love how the flaky crust and sweet, bubbly apples pair with cold, melting ice cream—it’s like magic in every bite. So go ahead, give this recipe a try, and watch it become a beloved classic in your own kitchen, too.

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