Grandma’s Iron Skillet Apple Pie

Why You’ll Love Grandma’s Iron Skillet Apple Pie Recipe

This pie stands out because it’s made in a cast iron skillet, which creates a beautiful caramelized bottom crust that’s rich and buttery. The filling features tender apples tossed in sugar, cinnamon, and butter, delivering the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness. The skillet ensures even baking and a beautifully golden crust. Plus, it’s a dessert that brings back memories of home and family with every bite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Apples (Granny Smith and/or Honeycrisp work best)

• Granulated sugar

• Brown sugar

• Ground cinnamon

• Unsalted butter

• All-purpose flour

• Prepared pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)

• Lemon juice

• Salt

• Vanilla extract

• Egg (for egg wash)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In your iron skillet, melt butter and stir in brown sugar until it bubbles and forms a caramel-like base.

3. Lay one pie crust over the caramel mixture in the skillet.

4. In a separate bowl, mix sliced apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, flour, lemon juice, salt, and vanilla extract.

5. Pour the apple mixture over the crust in the skillet.

6. Cover with the second pie crust, trim and crimp the edges, and cut slits in the top to allow steam to escape.

7. Brush the top with an egg wash for a golden finish.

8. Bake for 50–60 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

9. Let the pie cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

• Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for extra warmth.

• Use a lattice crust on top for a more decorative appearance.

• Mix in some raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity twist.

• Substitute half of the apples with pears for a seasonal variation.

• Make it a la mode by serving with vanilla ice cream.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes or microwave individual portions for 30–45 seconds until heated through.

FAQs

How do I keep the bottom crust from getting soggy?

Using the hot caramelized butter base in the skillet helps prevent a soggy crust by creating a barrier between the filling and the dough.

Can I use a different type of apple?

Yes, you can use Fuji, Braeburn, or a mix of tart and sweet apples for a well-balanced flavor.

Do I have to use a cast iron skillet?

A cast iron skillet is ideal for this recipe because it distributes heat evenly and gives the crust a beautiful golden base, but an oven-safe heavy-bottomed pan can work in a pinch.

Should I peel the apples?

Yes, peeling the apples helps them become tender during baking and gives the pie a smooth texture.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the entire pie and refrigerate it unbaked for up to 24 hours. Add an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

What’s the best way to serve this pie?

Let it cool for about 30 minutes before slicing so the filling sets, and serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.

Can I freeze this pie?

Yes, you can freeze the baked pie. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven before serving.

How do I get a shiny top crust?

Brushing the top crust with an egg wash before baking gives it a glossy, golden-brown finish.

Can I use homemade pie crust?

Absolutely. A buttery homemade crust can make this pie even more delicious and personal.

What if I don’t have brown sugar?

You can substitute brown sugar with white sugar mixed with a teaspoon of molasses to get a similar flavor.

Conclusion

Grandma’s Iron Skillet Apple Pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of tradition. With its sweet, spiced apple filling and perfectly caramelized crust, this pie brings warmth and comfort to every bite. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a simple family dinner, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite.