Cary Grant’s Grandmother’s 4-Ingredient Apple Pie Copycat Recipe

Simple, nostalgic, and wildly delicious—Cary Grant’s Grandmother’s 4-Ingredient Apple Pie is proof that less really is more. With just four humble ingredients, this pie captures everything you love about classic desserts: sweet apples, golden crust, and old-fashioned charm. It's the perfect beginner-friendly dessert for holidays, potlucks, or cozy weekends at home.

Why Everyone Will Love This Recipe

• Just 4 pantry ingredients—no fancy shopping needed
• Quick to prepare, especially with a store-bought crust
• Packed with real apple flavor, not overly sweet
• A true vintage recipe passed down through generations
• Great for fall gatherings, brunch, or a quiet night in with coffee

What Is 4-Ingredient Apple Pie?

This minimalist dessert hails from the kitchen of Cary Grant’s grandmother, who knew how to make magic with simplicity. Unlike modern pies with a dozen ingredients and layers of spice, this one keeps things delightfully basic—apples, sugar, butter, and a flaky pie crust. It’s the kind of dessert that tastes like it came from a well-loved family recipe box—and that’s because it did.

Cooking Tips

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced flavor.
• If using store-bought crust, choose deep-dish style for better filling fit.
• Don’t overbake—pull it once the crust is golden and apples are tender.
• Want a richer flavor? Sprinkle cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg (optional—yes, it breaks the 4-ingredient rule, but we won’t tell!).
• Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a nostalgic finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a store-bought pie crust?

Yes! A quality store-bought crust works beautifully and saves time. Just make sure it’s deep enough to hold the filling.

What kind of apples are best?

Granny Smith apples are ideal—they’re tart, hold their shape, and balance the sugar. You can also mix in a sweeter variety like Fuji for added depth.

Do I need to blind bake the crust?

No need. The pie bakes long enough that the crust turns golden without pre-baking.

Can I add spices?

Traditionally, no—but you’re welcome to sprinkle in cinnamon, allspice, or nutmeg if you want to add a modern twist.

How do I know it’s done?

The filling should bubble slightly, and the crust should be deeply golden. Insert a knife into the center—it should slide easily through the apples.

How to Store

Allow the pie to cool completely. Cover loosely with foil or transfer to an airtight container. Store at room temperature for 1 day or refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes to revive the crust.

How to Freeze

Wrap the unbaked pie in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 15–20 minutes to the total bake time. For leftovers, freeze individual slices in airtight containers and consume within 1–2 months.

Ingredients

• 1 ready-made or homemade pie crust (top and bottom)
• 6–8 tart apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled and sliced
• ¾ cup sugar (adjust based on apple sweetness)
• ¼ cup unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

How to Make Cary Grant’s Grandmother’s Apple Pie