If you are wondering how long to bake apple pie, a homemade 9-inch pie generally needs about 55 to 60 minutes when using a two-stage baking method. For this recipe, start at 400°F for 25 minutes, then lower the oven to 375°F and continue baking for 30 to 35 minutes.
The exact time can vary depending on the type of apples, thickness of the slices, amount of filling, and your oven. The best way to know your apple pie is ready is to look for a golden-brown crust, bubbling filling, and tender apples.
How Long To Bake Apple Pie at 400°F?
For a classic 9-inch double-crust apple pie:
- 400°F for 25 minutes
- Reduce the temperature to 375°F
- Bake for another 30 to 35 minutes
- Total baking time: about 55 to 60 minutes
Keep an eye on the crust during the final stage. If the edges become dark before the filling is ready, cover them loosely with aluminum foil or use a pie shield.
Why Start Apple Pie at 400°F?
Starting at 400°F gives the crust enough heat to begin browning and baking properly. Lowering the temperature afterward helps the apples continue cooking without allowing the outside crust to become too dark.
This method is especially useful for a traditional double-crust apple pie because the crust and filling need different amounts of time to cook properly.
Simple Apple Pie Recipe at 400°F
Ingredients
For one 9-inch apple pie, you will need:
- 2 pie crusts
- 6 to 7 medium or large apples
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 egg for an optional egg wash
Granny Smith apples are a popular choice because they are firm and tart, but Honeycrisp, Pink Lady, Golden Delicious, and Jonagold can also work well.
Prepare the Apple Filling
Peel, core, and slice the apples into fairly even pieces. Add them to a large bowl and mix with the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
Toss gently until the apples are evenly coated.
Avoid making the apple slices extremely thin because they can become overly soft during baking.
Assemble the Pie
Place one pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and gently press it against the bottom and sides.
Add the apple filling and spread it evenly.
Place the second crust over the apples. Press the edges of the two crusts together and crimp them to seal the pie.
Cut several small vents in the top crust. These openings allow steam to escape while the pie bakes.
For a golden finish, brush the top crust lightly with beaten egg.
How to Bake Apple Pie at 400°F
Preheat your oven to 400°F.
Place the prepared apple pie on a baking sheet to catch any filling that may bubble over.
Bake at 400°F for 25 minutes.
After 25 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 375°F. Continue baking for another 30 to 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apple juices are visibly bubbling.
The total baking time should be around 55 to 60 minutes.
How Do You Know When Apple Pie Is Done?
The timer is useful, but visual and texture cues are even more important.
The Crust Is Golden Brown
The top should have an even golden-brown color. If the crust is still pale, the pie may need more time.
The Filling Is Bubbling
Look through the vents in the top crust. You should see the apple juices bubbling.
Bubbling is an important sign that the filling is hot and has cooked properly.
The Apples Are Tender
Insert a thin knife through one of the vents. It should pass through the apples without much resistance.
If the apples are still hard or crunchy, continue baking for a few more minutes and check again.
How to Prevent Apple Pie From Burning
The edges of an apple pie can brown faster than the center.
If you notice the crust becoming too dark, cover the outer edges with a pie shield or strips of aluminum foil.
Do not completely cover the pie unless necessary because the top needs to continue browning and the filling needs to release steam.
Placing the pie on a baking sheet is also helpful because it catches bubbling juices and makes handling the hot pie easier.
Why Is My Apple Pie Watery?
A watery apple pie can happen when the apples release a lot of juice during baking or when the pie is removed before the filling has fully cooked.
Using an appropriate thickener, such as flour or cornstarch, can help.
It is also important to let the pie cool after baking. The filling continues to thicken as it cools, so a pie that looks slightly loose when it first comes out of the oven may set properly later.
How Long Should Apple Pie Cool Before Cutting?
Let the apple pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing.
It may be tempting to cut into it immediately, but the filling needs time to settle and thicken.
Cutting the pie too soon can cause the juices to run out and leave the filling much looser than expected.
For cleaner slices, allow the pie to cool completely before serving.
Best Apples for Homemade Apple Pie
Firm apples generally work best because they hold their shape while baking.
Good choices include:
- Granny Smith
- Honeycrisp
- Pink Lady
- Jonagold
- Golden Delicious
- Braeburn
You can also combine two or more varieties. Mixing a tart apple with a sweeter variety can create a more balanced flavor.
Quick Apple Pie Baking Guide
| Step | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Initial baking | 400°F | 25 minutes |
| Final baking | 375°F | 30–35 minutes |
| Total baking time | — | 55–60 minutes |
| Cooling | Room temperature | At least 2 hours |
These times are guidelines. A deeper pie, thicker apple slices, or a different oven can change the final baking time.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long to bake apple pie at 400°F?
For this recipe, bake the apple pie at 400°F for 25 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 375°F and bake for another 30 to 35 minutes.
Can I bake apple pie at 400°F the whole time?
You can, but the crust may brown too quickly before the apples become tender. Lowering the temperature after the first 25 minutes provides more control.
How do I know when apple pie is done?
The crust should be golden brown, the filling should be bubbling, and the apples should be tender when tested with a knife.
Why does my apple pie have a soggy bottom?
Too much liquid, underbaking, or cutting the pie before it has cooled can contribute to a soggy bottom. Make sure the filling is bubbling before removing the pie and allow it to cool properly.
Should I cover the apple pie while baking?
You do not normally need to cover the entire pie. If the edges brown too quickly, cover only the outer crust with foil or a pie shield.
Can I prepare apple pie ahead of time?
Yes. Apple pie can be prepared ahead of time and stored after it has cooled. It can also be assembled in advance and baked later, depending on the recipe and storage method.
Final Answer: How Long To Bake Apple Pie?
For a classic homemade 9-inch apple pie, bake at 400°F for 25 minutes, then reduce the oven to 375°F and bake for another 30 to 35 minutes.
The total baking time is approximately 55 to 60 minutes.
However, do not rely only on the clock. Your apple pie is ready when the crust is golden brown, the filling is bubbling, and the apples are tender. After baking, let it cool for at least 2 hours before slicing so the filling has time to set.