Enjoy a homemade version of McDonald's apple pie with this copycat recipe that’s easy to make and just as delicious. The crispy crust is filled with spiced apple filling, making it the perfect treat for dessert lovers. With a flaky, buttery crust and a warm apple center, these mini pies are baked to golden perfection. Serve them fresh from the oven for the ultimate comforting dessert experience.
This Copycat McDonald's Apple Pie recipe offers all the deliciousness of the fast-food favorite right from your own oven. The buttery, flaky crust is filled with a sweet, spiced apple filling that’s sure to satisfy your dessert cravings. These mini pies are perfect for a cozy treat or a fun weekend baking project!
INGREDIENTS
- Apples: 2 large, peeled and diced, for a sweet-tart filling.
- Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup, to sweeten the apple filling.
- Brown sugar: 1 tbsp, for a deeper, caramelized flavor.
- Cinnamon: 1/2 tsp, to add warm spice to the filling.
- Cornstarch: 1 tbsp, to thicken the apple filling.
- Lemon juice: 1 tbsp, to balance the sweetness and enhance flavor.
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups, for the crust.
- Granulated sugar: 1 tbsp, to add a hint of sweetness to the crust.
- Salt: 1/2 tsp, to enhance the crust's flavor.
- Unsalted butter: 3/4 cup, cold and cubed, to create a flaky crust.
- Cold water: 5-6 tbsp, to bind the dough.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Combine diced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, and lemon juice in a saucepan.
- Step 2:
- Cook over medium heat until the apples are soft and the sauce thickens, then let the filling cool.
- Step 3:
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt for the crust.
- Step 4:
- Cut in the cold, cubed butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Step 5:
- Add cold water one tablespoon at a time until the dough forms.
- Step 6:
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
- Step 7:
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and cut into rectangles.
- Step 8:
- Place a spoonful of apple filling on one side of each rectangle, fold the dough over, and crimp the edges with a fork to seal.
- Step 9:
- Brush with egg wash and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve warm for the best flavor. Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Helpful Notes
- Use Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples for a tart flavor.
- Chill the dough before rolling for a flakier crust.
- Brushing with egg wash helps achieve a golden brown color on the crust.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
- Chef Anna: “Add a pinch of nutmeg to the filling for a richer flavor.”
- Chef Ben: “Roll the dough thin for an extra crispy crust.”
What Makes This Copycat Apple Pie So Delicious?
This copycat McDonald's apple pie is packed with warm spices, tender apples, and a buttery, flaky crust that rivals the original. The combination of sweet and tart flavors, along with a crispy exterior, makes it irresistible.
How to Perfect Your Homemade Apple Pies
For the flakiest crust, keep the butter and water as cold as possible. Make sure the filling is cooled before adding it to the dough to prevent a soggy crust.
FAQs
Can I use premade pie crust?
Yes, you can use premade pie crust to save time. Just roll it out and follow the same assembly steps.
Can I freeze these apple pies?
Yes, freeze the assembled pies before baking. Bake from frozen, adding an extra 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
What can I serve with apple pies?
Apple pies pair well with vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for added sweetness.
How do I prevent a soggy crust?
Ensure the filling is cooled before adding it to the crust, and bake the pies on a preheated baking sheet.
Summary
This copycat McDonald's apple pie recipe brings the fast-food classic into your kitchen with a homemade twist. The buttery, flaky crust is filled with a warm, spiced apple filling made from scratch using diced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and a hint of lemon. After the filling is prepared, the crust dough is made by cutting cold butter into flour, sugar, and salt, then chilled to create a flaky texture. The dough is rolled out, filled with apple filling, and baked to golden perfection. These mini apple pies are crispy, comforting, and perfect for enjoying warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.