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

When I first tried this Apple Pie à la Mode (Apple Pie with Ice Cream Recipe) Recipe, I was blown away by how perfectly the warm, cinnamon-spiced apples paired with the creamy cold ice cream. I absolutely love how this recipe balances a flaky all-butter crust with a luscious filling that’s just sweet enough—plus that classic lattice top makes it look so inviting! If you’re looking for a comforting dessert that feels like a big cozy hug, stay with me—I’ll walk you through every step to nail it in your own kitchen.

this …

Ingredients You’ll Need

I find that using quality, fresh ingredients makes all the difference for a dessert like this. Picking the right apples is key—something tart yet sweet that will hold its shape nicely, like Pink Lady or Fuji. And don’t skip the cold butter for the crust, because it’s what gives you those flaky layers that everyone notices.

• All-purpose flour: Choose unbleached for a more natural flavor and texture.
• Granulated sugar: A little sweetness in the crust to balance the tart apples.
• Salt: Just enough to highlight flavors without being salty.
• Unsalted butter: Super cold and cubed—this is critical for flaky crusts.
• Water: Ice-cold water, so the dough doesn’t warm up while mixing.
• Apples (Pink Lady, Royal Gala, or Fuji): These varieties offer a beautiful balance of tart and sweet while keeping their structure.
• Brown sugar: Adds richness and complements the spices in the filling.
• Ground cinnamon: The classic warm spice that sings in every bite.
• Cornstarch: To thicken the filling perfectly without lumpiness.
• Almond flour or finely ground nuts: Sprinkled on the crust base to soak up extra juice and avoid sogginess.
• Egg: For the egg wash that gives the crust a gorgeous golden shine.
• Vanilla ice cream: The essential cool, creamy topping that makes it ‘à la mode’.

Variations

I love how this recipe makes it easy to customize based on what you have or prefer. Whether you want to dial up the spice, switch up the nuts, or even make it gluten-free, the base is flexible enough to accommodate those tweaks.

• Use different apple varieties: I sometimes mix tart Granny Smith with sweeter Fuji for a more complex flavor.
• Swap almond flour: Pecans or walnuts work great if you want a different nutty twist, or use breadcrumbs if you don’t want nuts.
• Gluten-free crust: I experimented with a gluten-free flour blend and it turned out surprisingly flaky when chilled well.
• Add spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for a unique flavor punch your guests will ask about.

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

Step 1: Crafting the Flaky Pie Crust

Start by mixing your flour, granulated sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Then add in those cold, cubed butter pieces. Here’s the trick I discovered: pinch the mixture until about half of the butter is in tiny pieces and the other half is slightly larger chunks—this contrast creates that signature flaky texture. Next, add ice-cold water and knead just enough to bring the dough together. Don’t overdo it—too much kneading makes the crust tough, and we want tender. Wrap the dough ball up and chill for at least 30 minutes; I find this step makes rolling out so much smoother.

Step 2: Preparing the Honeyed Apple Filling

Peeling and slicing apples can be tedious, but trust me—it’s worth taking your time here. Slice them about 5mm thick; too thin and they’ll turn mushy, too thick and they’ll be unevenly cooked. Toss them into a pan with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, salt, and water. Cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens and looks almost like honey—this usually takes a good 10-15 minutes, so stir often. Let those tender apples cool completely before using; warm filling can ruin your crust during baking.

Step 3: Assembling the Pie and Crafting the Lattice

Divide your chilled dough so you can reserve a third for the lattice top. Roll out the larger portion on a well-floured surface to about 3mm thick, then gently place it over your pie pan. Press the dough into the corners—don’t cut the edges just yet. Sprinkle almond flour on the bottom before adding your cooled apple filling; it acts like a moisture barrier and keeps that crust crisp. Next, roll out the reserved dough thinner for the lattice strips—about 2mm—and cut them evenly about 2cm wide. Here’s a little tip: when weaving the lattice, folding some strips over while lifting others makes it easier to create that classic crisscross pattern. Trim the excess dough, fold it under to make a nice edge, and crimp with your fingers to seal it beautifully.

Step 4: Baking to Golden Perfection

Brush your pie’s edges and lattice carefully with an egg wash—egg beaten with a splash of water—and sprinkle brown sugar on top for that irresistible caramelized finish. To avoid burnt edges, cover the pie edges with foil during the first half of baking. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake for another 30 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling bubbles through. The bubbling is your signal that all that luscious apple goodness is perfectly cooked. Let the pie cool on a wire rack until it’s just warm to make slicing easier.

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

Garnishes

I usually stick with a sprinkle of cinnamon or finely chopped toasted almonds on top of the ice cream scoop—it’s subtle but gives a lovely finishing touch and adds a bit of texture contrast. Sometimes I drizzle a little caramel sauce if we’re feeling fancy, and my family goes crazy for that. Fresh mint leaves can also add a pop of color and freshness if you’re serving guests.

Side Dishes

Since this pie is pretty rich and filling, I like to serve it as a standalone dessert with just a simple glass of spiced apple cider or a cup of coffee. For a festive occasion, pairing with a light green salad or roasted nuts works well, so your meal isn’t too heavy overall.

Creative Ways to Present

One of my favorite presentation ideas is serving individual mini pies made with the same filling and lattice technique—super cute and perfect for parties. Another fun approach is placing the pie on a rustic wooden board with an artisanal cloth napkin and fresh apple slices scattered around; it really sets the autumn vibe and makes for gorgeous photos.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover pie keeps beautifully when wrapped tightly with plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I like to bring mine back to room temperature before enjoying, which lets the flavors bloom again without melting the ice cream toppings.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers or prepare the pie in advance, wrap it well in foil and plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm slightly in the oven to refresh that crisp crust before serving à la mode.

Reheating

I usually reheat slices in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for about 10 minutes. This way, the crust crisps up again without overcooking the filling. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that flakiness intact—microwaves tend to make the crust soggy.

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 one of those desserts that brings people together—whether it’s a simple family gathering or a holiday feast. Once you get the hang of the flaky crust and the luscious filling, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again. Trust me, serve it warm with a generous scoop of your favorite ice cream and watch smiles light up around your table. I can’t wait for you to try it!

Print