1-First Step: Prepare the mise en place. Peel, core, and slice 6-8 medium apples into 1/4-inch thick pieces (about 8 cups). Toss with 3/4 cup sugar, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp cornstarch, and 1 tsp cinnamon. Let sit 15 minutes to release juices, then drain excess for non-soggy filling. This works for all diets; use gluten-free cornstarch if needed. Chill filling while making crust.

2-Second Step: Make the apple pie crust dough. In a large bowl, whisk 2 1/2 cups flour, 1 tsp salt, and 1 tbsp sugar. Cut in 1 cup cold cubed butter with a pastry blender until pea-sized crumbs form. Drizzle 6-8 tbsp ice water, one tbsp at a time, mixing with a fork until dough holds together. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic, and chill 1 hour. Vegan tip: use chilled plant butter.

3-Third Step: Roll out the bottom crust. On a floured surface, roll one disc to a 12-inch circle, 1/8-inch thick. Gently fit into a 9-inch pie plate, pressing into edges. Trim overhang to 1/2-inch. For crisp bottom, blind-bake: line with parchment and pie weights, bake at 425°F for 15 minutes, remove weights, bake 5 more minutes. Brush with beaten egg white. This prevents sogginess, great for low-calorie versions too.

4-Fourth Step: Add the apple pie filling. Spoon chilled filling into crust, mounding slightly in center. Dot with extra butter bits if desired (1 tbsp, optional for richer taste). For dietary tweaks, ensure vegan butter here.

5-Fifth Step: Top with second crust. Roll out remaining disc to 12-inch circle. Drape over filling. Trim, fold edges under, and crimp for seal. Cut 4-5 vents for steam. For lattice crust, cut strips and weave. Brush with beaten egg, sprinkle 1 tbsp coarse sugar. This apple pie recipe with lattice crust adds beauty.

6-Sixth Step: Bake the apple pie. Place on a baking sheet. Bake at 425°F for 15 minutes to set crust, then lower to 375°F for 40-50 minutes until golden and bubbly. Use pie shield after 20 minutes. Cool 2-3 hours on wire rack to set. Slice and serve warm.

7-Final Step: Finishing touches and serving. Pair with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Store as below. This simple apple pie from scratch wows at parties.