Imagine the warm aroma of a freshly baked old fashioned apple pear pie Pillsbury recipe filling your kitchen. The golden-brown crust, perfectly crimped edges, and the promise of a delightful dessert waiting to be savored – it’s a moment that connects generations of home bakers.

Baking has always been more than just preparing food. It’s about creating memories, sharing love, and experiencing the pure joy of a homemade treat. The apple pear pie Pillsbury recipe brings together the best of both worlds: convenience and traditional flavor that speaks to the heart of American home cooking.
This recipe isn’t just another dessert. It’s a celebration of seasonal flavors, combining the sweetness of apples loved by 60% of consumers with the unique texture of pears chosen by 35%. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this apple pear pie will become your new favorite comfort food.
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Introduction to Perfect Apple and Pear Pie Making
Crafting the best apple pear pie Pillsbury recipe requires understanding the rich culinary traditions and unique flavor combinations that make this dessert truly special. Fruit pies have long been a cherished part of American cuisine, representing comfort, creativity, and home-baked goodness.
History of Fruit Pies in American Cuisine
Fruit pies trace their roots deep into American culinary heritage. With over 7,500 apple varieties worldwide and the United States producing more than 6.3% of global apple production, bakers have endless possibilities for creating delicious desserts.
- Early settlers brought pie-making traditions from Europe
- Apples became a staple crop in many American regions
- Home bakers developed unique regional pie recipes
Why Combine Apples and Pears
The easy apple pear pie Pillsbury recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Apples provide firm, crisp notes while pears contribute a soft, sweet undertone. This combination creates a complex and satisfying filling that elevates the traditional apple pie.
The Convenience of Pillsbury Crusts
Pillsbury crusts simplify the pie-making process without sacrificing quality. These pre-made crusts ensure a consistently flaky, golden base that complements the rich fruit filling. Home bakers can focus on creating the perfect filling while enjoying the convenience of a professionally prepared crust.
Whether you’re a novice baker or an experienced pastry chef, the apple and pear pie represents a delicious intersection of tradition, flavor, and culinary innovation.
The Best Apple and Pear Varieties for Baking
Creating the perfect apple pear pie recipe requires selecting the right fruit varieties. The success of your apple pear pie crumble depends on choosing apples and pears that complement each other in flavor and texture.
Recommended Apple Types for Baking
Not all apples are created equal when it comes to baking. Some varieties shine brighter in pies than others. Here are the top choices for your apple pear pie recipe:
- Granny Smith: Known for its tartness and firm texture
- Honeycrisp: Offers a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch
- Fuji: Provides exceptional sweetness and holds shape well
Perfect Pear Selections
Pears bring a unique softness and delicate flavor to your pie. The best varieties for baking include:
- Bartlett: Soft and sweet, great for adding moisture
- Bosc: Firm texture that maintains shape during baking
Fruit Ripeness Guide
Selecting the right fruit at peak ripeness is crucial for your apple pear pie crumble. Look for apples and pears that are firm but yield slightly when gently pressed.
Fruit Type | Ripeness Indicators | Best Use |
---|---|---|
Granny Smith Apples | Bright green, firm to touch | Baking, adds tartness |
Bosc Pears | Slight give near stem, golden-brown color | Holds shape in baking |
Pro tip: Mix different apple varieties to create a more complex flavor profile in your apple pear pie Pillsbury recipe. A combination of tart and sweet apples will elevate your dessert to the next level.
Mastering the Apple Pear Pie Pillsbury Recipe
Creating the perfect apple and pear pie with puff pastry requires precision and passion. Home bakers can transform simple ingredients into a delectable dessert that captures the essence of seasonal fruits. The king arthur apple pear pie technique involves carefully selecting the right fruits and preparing a filling that balances sweetness and spice.
Apple Pear Pie Pillsbury Recipe Ingridients
for your apple pear pie pie ingridients include:
- 3 medium apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
- 2 medium pears (peeled, cored, and sliced)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
- Pillsbury pie crust
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt
Recommended fruit varieties can elevate your pie’s flavor profile. For apples, choose Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness. Pear selections like Bartlett or Anjou provide exceptional texture and depth. Slice fruits into uniform 1/2-inch chunks to ensure even cooking.
Step By Step Preparation of apple pear pie Pillsbury recipe
Here’s a step-by-step guide to preparing an apple pear pie using Pillsbury pie crust:


Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Crust
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and unroll one Pillsbury pie crust, fitting it into a 9-inch pie pan, pressing it firmly into the bottom and sides.
Step 2: Mix the Fruit Filling
In a large bowl, combine apples, pears, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, vanilla extract, and lemon juice, then toss until the fruit is evenly coated.


Step 3: Fill the Pie Crust
Pour the fruit filling into the prepared pie crust, then dot the filling with small butter pieces for added richness.
Step 4: Cover and Seal the Pie
Place the second pie crust over the filling, trim the excess dough, and crimp the edges to seal, then cut small slits in the top to allow steam to escape.


Step 5: Add the Egg Wash and Sugar
Brush the top crust with a beaten egg for a golden finish and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired.
Step 6: Bake the Pie
Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling, covering the edges with foil if they brown too quickly.
Pro tip: For an extra flaky crust when using Pillsbury pastry, brush the top with whole milk before baking. This creates a beautiful golden sheen that will impress both family and guests.
Secret Tips for a Flaky Pillsbury Crust
Creating the perfect easy apple and pear pie starts with mastering the Pillsbury pie crust. Professional bakers know that a flaky, golden crust can transform an ordinary apple pear tart recipe with Pillsbury pie crust into a culinary masterpiece.
Proper Crust Handling Techniques
The key to an exceptional pie crust lies in minimal handling. Overworking the dough can develop gluten, resulting in a tough crust. Bakers should follow these critical steps:
- Keep ingredients ice-cold
- Handle the dough as little as possible
- Use a pastry blender for mixing
- Chill the dough before rolling
Temperature Control Methods
Temperature plays a crucial role in achieving a flaky crust. Experts recommend chilling the assembled pie for 30 minutes before baking. This helps the fat in the dough remain solid, creating those coveted layers of flakiness.
A combination of butter and shortening ensures optimal flavor and texture. The fat should be cold and cut into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. An egg wash can provide a beautiful golden sheen and extra crispness.
Edge Crimping Styles
Professional-looking edges can elevate your pie from homemade to bakery-quality. Several crimping techniques can add visual appeal:
- Classic fork press method
- Detailed finger crimp
- Braided edge design
- Decorative scalloped edge
Pro tip: If the crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil or a silicone pie shield during baking. This prevents burning while ensuring a perfectly golden crust.
Perfect Filling Consistency and Flavor Balance
Creating an old fashioned apple pear pie Pillsbury recipe requires mastering the art of filling preparation. The key to a spectacular pie lies in achieving the perfect consistency and balanced flavor profile that delights the taste buds.
Professional bakers recommend pre-cooking the filling to remove excess moisture. This crucial step prevents a soggy crust and ensures a delightful texture in your easy apple pear pie Pillsbury recipe. Selecting the right fruit combination is essential for creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
- Choose a mix of tart and sweet apple varieties
- Slice fruits uniformly for even cooking
- Use cornstarch or flour as a thickening agent
- Balance spices to enhance natural fruit flavors
The McIntosh apple, recognized as a gold standard for pie apples since 1868, offers an excellent base for your filling. Combine it with Cortland apples, which have consistently won pie competitions, to create a robust flavor profile. Chefs recommend using approximately 6 thinly sliced apples for optimal results.
Experiment with spice combinations to personalize your pie. A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of vanilla can elevate the natural sweetness of apples and pears. Remember that the goal is to create a filling that is neither too runny nor too thick, allowing the fruit’s natural flavors to shine through.
Pro tip: Let your filling cool slightly before adding it to the pie crust. This technique helps prevent a soggy bottom and ensures a crisp, flaky crust that complements the rich, fruity filling perfectly.
Advanced Baking Techniques and Timing
Mastering the art of baking the best apple pear pie Pillsbury recipe requires precision and attention to detail. Professional bakers know that temperature management and timing are crucial to creating a perfect dessert that delights the senses.
Temperature Management
The ideal baking temperature for an exceptional apple pear pie recipe plays a critical role in achieving golden perfection. Experts recommend preheating the oven to 425°F (218°C), which ensures a crisp crust and well-cooked filling.
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C)
- Use an oven thermometer for accuracy
- Place pie on the middle rack for even heat distribution
Visual Doneness Indicators
Recognizing when your pie is perfectly baked requires keen observation. Look for these key visual cues that signal your best apple pear pie Pillsbury recipe is ready:
Indicator | Description |
---|---|
Crust Color | Golden brown and crisp |
Filling Bubbling | Visible bubbling around edges |
Fruit Texture | Soft but not mushy |
Cooling Process
Patience is key in the final stages of pie preparation. Allow your pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This crucial step helps the filling set properly, preventing a runny texture and ensuring clean, picture-perfect slices.
With these advanced techniques, you’ll transform your apple pear pie recipe into a professional-quality dessert that will impress family and friends.
Creative Lattice and Decorative Tops
Transforming an apple pear pie Pillsbury recipe into a visual masterpiece requires artistic crust techniques. The lattice top serves both aesthetic and functional purposes, allowing steam to escape while creating an eye-catching design. Bakers can elevate their apple and pear pie with puff pastry through creative decorative methods.
- Roll out the Pillsbury pie crust to an even thickness
- Cut strips approximately 1/2 inch wide
- Weave strips in an alternating over-under pattern
- Trim excess dough around the pie’s edges
Professional bakers recommend specific techniques for a perfect lattice top:
- Chill dough strips before weaving to maintain structure
- Use a pizza cutter for precise strip creation
- Apply egg wash for a golden, glossy finish
Lattice Design | Difficulty Level | Preparation Time |
---|---|---|
Classic Criss-Cross | Beginner | 15-20 minutes |
Herringbone Pattern | Advanced | 25-30 minutes |
Braided Lattice | Expert | 35-40 minutes |
For those seeking extra flair, consider adding decorative elements like pastry leaves or intricate cutouts around the pie’s edge. An egg wash consisting of 1 large egg and 1 tablespoon of water will ensure a beautiful golden sheen on your apple pear pie Pillsbury recipe.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Elevating your king arthur apple pear pie from a simple dessert to a culinary masterpiece requires thoughtful serving strategies. The right accompaniments can transform an easy apple and pear pie into an unforgettable dining experience.

Complementary Dessert Sauces
Enhance your pie’s flavor profile with decadent sauce options:
- Caramel sauce: Drizzle warm caramel for rich sweetness
- Vanilla custard: Smooth and creamy complementary sauce
- Spiced rum sauce: Adds depth and complexity
Ice Cream and Whipped Cream Pairings
Classic accompaniments can elevate your king arthur apple pear pie to new heights:
- Vanilla bean ice cream: Traditional and crowd-pleasing
- Cinnamon ice cream: Intensifies pie’s warm spices
- Homemade whipped cream: Light and airy topping
Unexpected Flavor Combinations
For adventurous dessert lovers, consider unique pairings like a slice of sharp cheddar cheese or you can served with Gooseberry Pie. This unexpected combination creates a delightful sweet and savory contrast that transforms your easy apple and pear pie into a gourmet experience.
When serving, warm the pie slightly and plate with artistic flair. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a mint leaf can add visual appeal and elevate the presentation of your homemade dessert.
Storage Tips and Reheating Methods
Preserving the delightful flavor of your old fashioned apple pear pie pillsbury recipe requires careful storage techniques. Bakers can keep their apple pear tart recipe with pillsbury pie crust fresh and delicious with these expert preservation methods.
Room Temperature Storage
Fresh-baked pies can be safely stored at room temperature for a short period. Key storage guidelines include:
- Store in an airtight container
- Keep at room temperature for up to 2 days
- Protect from direct sunlight and heat sources
Refrigeration Techniques
For extended freshness, refrigeration offers an excellent preservation method. Refrigerated apple pear pies maintain quality for up to 4-5 days when properly stored.
- Cover pie loosely with plastic wrap
- Place in the refrigerator’s central section
- Avoid storing near strong-smelling foods
Freezing Your Pie
Home bakers can extend the pie’s life by freezing. Frozen pie slices can remain delicious for up to 6 months when prepared correctly.
- Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap
- Place wrapped slices in freezer-safe containers
- Label with the date of freezing
Reheating Methods
Revive the pie’s original warmth and flakiness using these reheating techniques:
- Oven method: Preheat to 350°F, heat for 10-15 minutes
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals
- Air fryer: Warm at 350°F for 5-7 minutes
Pro tip: To maintain the crust’s crispy texture, avoid microwaving for extended periods. The oven method provides the best results for restoring your pie’s original delectable quality.
Seasonal Variations and Adaptations
Creating an easy apple pear pie Pillsbury recipe allows bakers to transform this classic dessert for different seasons and special occasions. The versatility of this best apple pear pie Pillsbury recipe enables home cooks to experiment with unique flavor profiles and decorative techniques.
Holiday Spice Combinations
Seasonal spices can elevate your apple pear pie to new heights of deliciousness. Consider these festive flavor enhancements:
- Thanksgiving: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg and a pinch of cloves
- Christmas: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of orange zest and 1/4 teaspoon of cardamom
- Winter: Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of bourbon or rum for depth
Special Occasion Modifications
Transform your pie into a showstopping dessert with these creative adaptations:
Occasion | Modification | Ingredients to Add |
---|---|---|
Wedding Shower | Elegant Lattice Top | Candied orange peel, sliced almonds |
Summer Gathering | Tropical Twist | Crushed macadamia nuts, coconut flakes |
Autumn Celebration | Rustic Galette Style | Dried cranberries, pecans |
The Pillsbury crust provides a perfect canvas for these creative variations. With minimal effort, bakers can craft a unique dessert that celebrates the season while maintaining the comforting essence of a classicapple pear pie Pillsbury recipe.
FAQ
How to make apple and pear pie?
Peel and slice apples and pears, then mix them with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Fill a pie crust with the fruit, cover it with another crust, seal the edges, and bake at 375°F until golden.
Should apples be cooked before making apple pie?
No, raw apples are usually used in apple pie and cook as the pie bakes.
What are the six ways you can ruin apple pie filling?
Using the wrong apples, mismeasuring sugar, skimping on thickener, overcooking, undercooking, or using too many spices can each ruin apple pie filling.
What can I use Pillsbury pie crust for?
Pillsbury pie crust is versatile, perfect for both sweet pies like apple or cherry pie and savory dishes such as quiches and pot pies.
Conclusion
Crafting the perfect apple pear pie Pillsbury recipe is more than just a culinary adventure—it’s a celebration of flavors and traditions. Home bakers can transform simple ingredients into a spectacular dessert that delights family and friends with minimal effort.
The apple pear pie crumble technique offers incredible versatility for both novice and experienced bakers. Each slice represents a harmonious blend of seasonal fruits, carefully selected spices, and the convenience of Pillsbury’s reliable pie crust. This recipe proves that exceptional desserts are within everyone’s reach.
Bakers are encouraged to experiment, personalize, and embrace the art of pie-making. With practice and passion, anyone can master this delightful recipe and create memorable moments around the table.
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Apple Pear Pie Pillsbury Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A delicious and easy-to-make fruit pie featuring sweet apples and pears, wrapped in a flaky Pillsbury pie crust. This dessert is perfect for holidays or any special occasion.
Ingredients
- 1 box Pillsbury™ refrigerated pie crusts, softened as directed on the box
- 3 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 3 cups peeled, cored, and sliced pears (such as Bartlett or Anjou)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (for topping, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Prepare Pie Crust: Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate.
- Make Filling: In a large bowl, combine apples, pears, sugars, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix well.
- Assemble Pie: Pour the fruit mixture into the pie crust and dot with butter pieces. Cover with the second pie crust, seal edges, and cut small slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
- Egg Wash & Sugar: Brush the top crust with beaten egg and sprinkle with coarse sugar for extra crunch.
- Bake: Place pie on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes at 425°F. Reduce heat to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and filling is bubbling.
- Cool: Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing to allow the filling to set.
- Serve: Enjoy warm or at room temperature, optionally with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Notes
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for balanced flavor.
- To prevent a soggy crust, sprinkle a bit of flour or cornstarch on the bottom crust before adding the filling.
- If the crust browns too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil during baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
Keywords: Apple pear pie, Pillsbury pie crust, easy fruit pie, holiday dessert, apple and pear dessert, homemade pie, Thanksgiving pie