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Braided Apple Pie

Featured in Sweet Delights for Every Occasion.

This apple braid pastry turns traditional pie into an elegant centerpiece. Sweet-tart apples are tossed with warm cinnamon, brown sugar, and a hint of lemon zest, then tucked into a flaky pastry that's cut and woven into a beautiful braid pattern. While it looks complicated, simple step-by-step folding creates the stunning design. As it bakes, the pastry turns golden and crisp, while the filling becomes tender and aromatic. A brush of egg wash before baking gives it a professional shine that makes everyone think it's from a bakery.
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Updated on Thu, 16 Jan 2025 01:21:55 GMT
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A freshly baked apple pastry braided with a golden crust and dusted with powdered sugar, resting on parchment paper. Pin it
A freshly baked apple pastry braided with a golden crust and dusted with powdered sugar, resting on parchment paper. | cookingkeys.com

Let me share my favorite way to turn classic apple pie into something truly spectacular! This braided version came about during one cozy fall afternoon when I wanted to make something special for a family gathering. The moment I pulled that golden-brown braid from the oven, with those gorgeous apple spices filling the kitchen, I knew I'd found a new tradition.

What Makes It Special

The beauty of this pie lies in both its presentation and flavor. The braided pattern creates this stunning lattice effect that's actually easier than it looks! Meanwhile, pre-cooking the apple filling ensures perfectly tender fruit and eliminates that dreaded gap between filling and crust that often happens with traditional apple pies.

Essential Ingredients

  • Fresh Apples: Choose firm, tart varieties they hold their shape while cooking
  • Quality Spices: Fresh spices make all the difference in flavor
  • Brown Sugar: Adds that perfect caramel note
  • Pie Dough: Homemade or store-bought both work beautifully
  • Lemon Juice: Brightens all the flavors and prevents browning
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the spice blend
  • Sparkling Sugar: Creates that beautiful crystal finish

Remember, the type of apples you choose really matters. A mix of varieties gives the best flavor and texture balance!

Step-by-Step Guide

Perfect Apple Prep
Slice your apples evenly for consistent cooking. The pre-cooking step is crucial don't skip it!
Creating the Braid
Make your cuts at the same angle on both sides. Keep strips even for that professional look.
Folding Technique
Start from the top and work your way down, keeping tension even but gentle.
Finishing Touches
That egg wash and sugar sprinkle aren't just for looks they create that beautiful golden crust.

Remember to let your filling cool completely before assembling it makes braiding so much easier!

A close-up of braided apple pastry filled with caramelized apples and dusted with powdered sugar on a wooden board. Pin it
A close-up of braided apple pastry filled with caramelized apples and dusted with powdered sugar on a wooden board. | cookingkeys.com

Pro Tips

Want to know my secrets for perfect braiding? Keep your dough cold if it starts getting too soft, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes. Make your cuts a little wider rather than thinner they're easier to work with. And always brush with egg wash twice once before sprinkling sugar, and once after for extra shine!

Make It Your Own

This technique works beautifully with other fruits too! Try pears in fall, mixed berries in summer, or even a savory version with butternut squash. Add some chopped nuts to the filling, or brush with maple syrup instead of egg wash. The basic method is so reliable, you can really get creative!

Storage Tips

This pie stays beautiful and delicious for several days! Keep it covered at room temperature if you'll eat it within two days, or refrigerate for longer storage. To reheat, pop individual slices in the oven for a few minutes the crust will crisp right back up!

Perfect Pairings

Serve this beauty warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. For extra decadence, drizzle with caramel sauce or maple syrup. It's perfect for fall gatherings, Thanksgiving, or any time you want to impress with your baking skills!

A golden-brown apple strudel is displayed on a wooden board, surrounded by fresh apples and a bowl of whipped cream. Pin it
A golden-brown apple strudel is displayed on a wooden board, surrounded by fresh apples and a bowl of whipped cream. | cookingkeys.com

Troubleshooting

If your dough tears while braiding, don't panic! Just pinch it back together and keep going. Filling too wet? Add a bit more flour. And if your braid isn't picture-perfect, remember that rustic looks are charming too the taste will still be amazing!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What are the best apples to use for this pie?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples work best for this recipe. These varieties hold their shape while baking and offer the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.
→ Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this pie up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered at room temperature and warm slightly before serving for best results.
→ Why do we need to cool the filling before braiding?
Cooling the filling prevents the butter in the crust from melting too quickly. This helps maintain the braid structure and ensures a flaky crust.
→ Can I use homemade pie crust instead of store-bought?
Yes, you can use homemade pie crust. Just make sure to roll it out to the same dimensions as specified in the recipe for the best results.
→ How do I store leftover braided apple pie?
Store any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can warm individual slices in the oven for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Braided Apple Pie

A beautiful twist on traditional apple pie featuring spiced apples wrapped in a braided buttery crust, perfect for fall gatherings and holiday celebrations.

Prep Time
30 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
50 Minutes

Category: Desserts

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Yield: 8 Servings (1 braided pie)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 5 large baking apples, peeled and sliced.
02 2 tablespoons butter.
03 ½ cup white sugar.
04 ¼ cup brown sugar.
05 1 teaspoon cinnamon.
06 ½ teaspoon allspice.
07 ¼ teaspoon ginger.
08 ¼ teaspoon salt.
09 2 tablespoons flour.
10 2 tablespoons cornstarch.
11 1 tablespoon lemon juice.
12 2 pie crusts (14.1 oz box).
13 1 egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water.
14 2 tablespoons coarse sugar for topping.

Instructions

Step 01

Melt butter in large pan. Add sliced apples, sugars, and spices. Cook until apples soften, about 7 minutes.

Step 02

Mix cornstarch with water, add to pan with flour. Cook 5 minutes until thickened. Stir in lemon juice and cool completely.

Step 03

Stack and roll pie crusts into rectangle. Spread cooled filling and roll into log. Cut lengthwise and twist pieces together.

Step 04

Brush with egg wash, sprinkle with sugar. Bake at 375°F for 20 minutes until golden brown.

Notes

  1. Best served warm with vanilla ice cream.
  2. Use firm baking apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
  3. Can be made ahead and reheated.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large skillet.
  • Baking sheet.
  • Parchment paper.
  • Rolling pin.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Wheat.
  • Eggs.
  • Dairy.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 306
  • Total Fat: 9 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 56 g
  • Protein: 3 g