Best Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie That Feels Like Home

Sophia

Founder of Vintage cooks

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There’s a certain comfort in the delicate weave of an old-fashioned lattice top apple pie—the golden crust peeking over tender, cinnamon-spiced apples that fill the kitchen with warmth. One afternoon, craving something truly homemade and timeless, I dusted off my grandmother’s pie recipe and was instantly reminded why this classic never goes out of style. What makes this pie stand apart isn’t just the flaky, buttery crust or the sweet-tart apple filling; it’s the art of that lattice top, woven with care, turning a simple dessert into a centerpiece that invites smiles and second helpings. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone looking to escape the fast-food rut, this pie is proof that homemade desserts can be both effortless and utterly memorable. Let me take you through the steps of crafting this cozy, crowd-pleasing favorite that feels like a warm hug in every bite.

Why choose Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie?

Timeless Charm: This pie’s lattice crust adds a beautiful, handwoven touch that feels both nostalgic and elegant. Flaky, Buttery Crust: Made from scratch, the crust melts in your mouth with every bite. Balanced Flavors: Sweet-tart apples with cinnamon create that perfect cozy warmth. Simple Yet Impressive: Basic baking skills are all you need to wow your family or guests. Mood-Lifting Aroma: The kitchen fills with comforting scents that feel like home. Versatile Dessert: Perfect for holidays, weeknights, or anytime you crave classic homemade goodness.

Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie Ingredients

For the Pie Crust

All-purpose flour – Use cold flour for a tender, flaky texture in your crust.
Unsalted butter – Keep it chilled and cut into small cubes for that perfect buttery flake.
Cold water – Add ice-cold water gradually to bring the dough together without melting the butter.
Salt – Just a pinch to enhance the flavors in the crust.
Granulated sugar – Optional but adds a subtle sweetness that balances the pie filling.

For the Apple Filling

Granny Smith apples – Tart and firm apples hold their shape and give that classic sweet-tart bite.
Honeycrisp apples – Adds natural sweetness and juicy texture to complement the Granny Smith.
Brown sugar – Caramel notes deepen the flavor of the spiced apple filling.
Ground cinnamon – A warming spice that gives the filling its signature cozy aroma.
Ground nutmeg – Just a touch to add subtle earthiness and depth.
Lemon juice – Keeps the apples from browning and brightens the flavor.
Cornstarch – Helps thicken the filling so it’s perfectly set beneath the lattice crust.

For the Finishing Touches

Egg wash (egg + water) – Brush over the lattice top for a golden, glossy finish.
Coarse sugar – Sprinkle on top to add a sparkling crunch and extra sweetness to your Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie

Combine Crust: Combine flour, sugar, and salt with chilled butter in a bowl until mixture resembles coarse meal with pea-size lumps, ensuring a flaky crust.
Add Water: Gradually sprinkle ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently just until dough clings together without overworking or melting the butter.
Chill Dough: Divide dough into two disks, wrap tightly, and chill at least 30 minutes to relax gluten and firm up butter.
Prepare Filling: In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch until evenly coated.
Roll Crust: On a floured surface, roll one dough disk into a 12-inch circle, then transfer to a 9-inch pie pan.
Assemble Filling: Pile the spiced apple mixture into the crust, dot with butter pieces for extra richness.
Weave Lattice Top: Roll the second disk into a rectangle, cut into 12 strips, then carefully weave over filling. Trim and crimp edges.
Egg Wash & Bake: Brush lattice with egg wash, sprinkle coarse sugar, and bake at 375°F for 45–50 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Optional: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Variations & Substitutions for Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie

Feel free to embrace your inner chef and customize this delightful pie with these fun variations!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to enjoy a flaky crust without the gluten. It allows everyone at the table to savor this classic treat.
Sugar-Free: Substitute granulated sugar and brown sugar with your favorite sugar alternative, like erythritol, to make a diabetic-friendly version. Your taste buds will still dance with delight!
Nutty Crust: Add crushed nuts like almonds or pecans to the pie crust for a flavorful twist. This extra crunch offers a delightful surprise in every bite.
Spiced Apples: Elevate your filling by adding a dash of allspice or cardamom alongside cinnamon, infusing new layers of warmth and aroma to your pie. It’s a cozy hug in dessert form!
Caramel Swirl: Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the apple filling before adding the lattice top for a decadent treat. This brings a rich, sweet depth to the apple flavor.
Mixed Fruit Filling: Blend your apples with fresh berries or pears for a colorful, juicy filling that’s a feast for the senses. Each slice will burst with a delightful medley of flavors!
Extra Crispy Lattice: Brush the lattice strips with melted butter and sprinkle them with a bit of cinnamon-sugar before baking to enjoy a crunchy, sweet top. It’s the ultimate indulgent finish to this classic pie!
Vegan Option: Replace the butter in the crust with coconut oil or vegan butter and use a flax egg instead of the egg wash for a compassionate take on this beloved dessert. Everyone can enjoy a taste of home!

How to Store and Freeze Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie

Room Temperature: Keep the pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered loosely with foil or a clean kitchen towel to maintain its crust’s crispness.

Fridge: Store leftover pie in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, covered with plastic wrap or an airtight container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pie wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat slices in a 350°F oven for about 10–15 minutes or until warmed through to enjoy your delicious old-fashioned lattice top apple pie again.

What to Serve with Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie?

Create a delightful meal that invites warmth and togetherness with each comforting dish.

Spiced Hot Cider: A warm cup of spiced hot cider complements the pie’s flavors, wrapping you in cozy autumn vibes. The gentle spices elevate both the drink and the pie.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, creamy vanilla ice cream melts over the warm pie, creating a luscious contrast that delights the senses. The blend of warm and cold is simply irresistible.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, homemade whipped cream adds a sweet, fluffy element that enhances the apple filling’s flavors. A dollop on each slice turns this dessert into pure indulgence.
Cheddar Cheese Slices: A surprisingly yummy twist, sharp cheddar cuts through the sweetness and adds a savory zing that pairs beautifully with the pie’s sweetness. It’s a classic combination that surprises and delights.
Pecan Pie Bars: For an indulgent dessert spread, these nutty bars offer a rich and crunchy texture that balances the softness of the apple pie, creating a symphony of flavors to savor.
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of your favorite coffee or herbal tea serves as a comforting finish, enhancing the pie’s cinnamon notes while providing a soothing end to a delightful meal.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings in bright flavors and textures that lighten the richness of the pie, making for a well-rounded meal. Add a drizzle of honey or lime for extra zing.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over your slice of pie adds an extra layer of sweetness and richness, creating a truly decadent dessert experience you won’t soon forget.
Chocolate Bark: For chocolate lovers, a lightly salted chocolate bark adds a crunchy, sweet-savory dimension, enhancing the overall dessert experience. Perfect to nibble on alongside a slice of pie!

Expert Tips for Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie

Keep Ingredients Cold: Use chilled butter and ice water to ensure a flaky, tender crust that holds up beautifully under the lattice top.
Don’t Overmix Dough: Combine ingredients gently to avoid developing gluten, which can make the crust tough instead of flaky.
Perfect Apple Balance: Mix tart Granny Smith with sweet Honeycrisp apples to achieve that signature old-fashioned flavor harmony.
Weave Lattice Carefully: Use a ruler or guide for even strips, and don’t stretch the dough strips when weaving to prevent shrinking during baking.
Egg Wash for Shine: Apply an even coat of egg wash for a golden lattice crust, and sprinkle coarse sugar before baking for that irresistible sparkle.
Watch Baking Time: Bake until the apple filling bubbles through the lattice and the crust is golden, avoiding underbaking which can cause sogginess.

Make Ahead Options

These Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pies are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can prepare the pie crust up to 3 days in advance by mixing the dough, shaping it into disks, and refrigerating them. The apple filling can also be prepped and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours; just remember to toss the apples with lemon juice to prevent browning. When you’re ready to bake, roll out the chilled dough, fill it with the spiced apples, and weave your lattice top. Brush with egg wash and bake according to the recipe’s instructions for a dessert that’s just as delicious as if you made it from scratch on the day!

Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie Recipe FAQs

Which apples are best for the Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie?
I highly recommend using a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples. Granny Smith apples provide a tartness and firmness that holds up during baking, while Honeycrisp adds natural sweetness and juiciness. Together, they create the perfect balance of flavors and textures for this classic pie.

How long can I store leftover Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie?
You can keep the pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, loosely covered to keep the crust crisp. If you want it to last longer, store it in the refrigerator wrapped tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This way, your pie stays fresh and delicious for several delicious servings.

Can I freeze the Old-Fashioned Lattice Top Apple Pie? If yes, how?
Absolutely! Freezing your pie is a great way to enjoy it later. First, let the pie cool completely after baking. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 to 15 minutes until warm and bubbly. I often make extra to freeze for busy days!

What should I do if my pie crust becomes soggy?
If sogginess creeps in, there are a few tricks you can try. For future pies, brush the bottom crust with a thin layer of melted butter or egg white before adding the filling to create a moisture barrier. Also, make sure not to overload the filling, and bake until you see bubbling juice through the lattice. If your pie is already made, reheating it in the oven instead of the microwave helps improve the crust’s texture.

Is this pie safe for pets or people with allergies?
While this pie is made with wholesome ingredients, it’s not suitable for pets, especially dogs and cats, due to cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar content. For those with allergies, it’s important to note the crust contains wheat and butter (dairy). You can substitute gluten-free flour and use dairy-free margarine or coconut oil to make it allergen-friendly, but expect some texture differences.

How ripe should the apples be for the best flavor and texture?
The apples should be firm and crisp but fully ripe—not too soft or mealy. Look for apples without dark spots all over or bruising. This ensures they hold their shape during baking and deliver that signature sweet-tart bite. I always pick apples that feel heavy for their size, which usually means juicier and fresher filling.