Copycat McDonald’s Apple Pie (Air Fryer or Oven!)

Last Updated on June 24, 2025

Craving that crispy, cinnamon-filled apple pie from the drive-thru? This homemade version is flaky, golden, and packed with cozy fall flavor—and you don’t need to deep fry a thing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’ve ever ordered a McDonald’s apple pie “just because,” then you already know the magic. These little pies are hot, sweet, and satisfyingly crispy on the outside. Now imagine making that same warm comfort at home—with just a handful of ingredients and your air fryer (or oven!).

✅ Crispy, flaky crust
✅ Real apple filling with cinnamon & brown sugar
✅ Freezer-friendly
✅ No fryer needed!

Ingredients

For the filling:

• 2 cups diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best)
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 3 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 1½ tsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp butter

For the crust:

• 1 refrigerated pie crust (or puff pastry)
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 2 tbsp cinnamon-sugar mix
• Cooking spray

How to Make It

1. Make the Filling

Add apples, sugars, cinnamon, lemon juice, butter, and cornstarch to a pan over medium heat. Stir until thick and syrupy, about 6–8 minutes. Let cool slightly.

2. Prep the Crust

Roll out the pie crust and cut into 8 rectangles. Keep covered to prevent drying.

3. Fill & Seal

Spoon 2 tablespoons of apple filling onto half the rectangles. Brush the edges with beaten egg, then top with another crust rectangle. Crimp the edges with a fork. Slice 2–3 small vents on top.

4. Air Fry

Preheat air fryer to 360°F. Brush pies with egg wash, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar, and spray lightly with oil.
Air fry for 8–10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.

🔥 No air fryer? Bake at 400°F for 18–22 minutes on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Tips for Success

• Use a mix of tart + sweet apples for more flavor
• Don’t overfill or they’ll burst
• Make a double batch and freeze unbaked pies for later

How to Store

• Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days
• Freezer: Freeze unbaked pies on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Air fry straight from frozen + 3 extra minutes

Tips for Perfect Copycat Apple Pies

1. Choose the Best Apples

For a balanced filling, mix firm tart apples (Granny Smith) with naturally sweet varieties (Honeycrisp, Gala, or Braeburn). The tart apples hold their shape, while sweet apples add flavor depth.

2. Prevent a Soggy Bottom

Cornstarch acts as a slurry to thicken juices. Make sure to cook the filling until thick before assembling, and preheat your air fryer or oven so the crust starts crisping immediately.

3. Keep Dough Cold

Work quickly with refrigerated dough. If it becomes too warm, chill the pieces for 5 minutes—this keeps layers distinct and flaky.

4. Even Browning

Rotate air fryer basket or turn baking sheet halfway through cooking. A light spray of cooking oil ensures a uniform golden finish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Freeze baked or unbaked pies (flash-freeze on a tray, then transfer to bags) up to 1 month.
• Reheating:
  • Air fryer: 350°F for 3–5 minutes (restores crispiness)
  • Oven: 325°F for 8–10 minutes

Copycat McDonald’s Apple Pie

Author: Kelly Bejelly

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Ingredients

For the filling:

• 2 cups diced apples Granny Smith or Honeycrisp
• 2 Tbsp brown sugar
• 3 Tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 Tbsp cornstarch
• 1 Tbsp butter
• 1 ½ tsp fresh lemon juice

For the crust & coating:

• 1 refrigerated pie crust or puff pastry sheet
• 1 large egg beaten (for egg wash)
• 2 Tbsp cinnamon-sugar mix
• Cooking spray or a light brush of oil

Instructions

Cook the Apple Filling

1. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine diced apples, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, butter, and lemon juice. Stir in cornstarch and cook until the mixture thickens, about 6–8 minutes. Remove from heat and cool.

Cut & Prep the Dough

1. Roll out your pie crust on a lightly floured surface. Cut into eight 3×6-inch rectangles. Keep extra pieces covered so they don’t dry out.

Assemble the Pies

1. Place ~2 Tbsp of cooled apple filling on each rectangle, leaving a ¼-inch border.
2. Brush the edges with beaten egg.
3. Top with a second rectangle, press edges together, and crimp with a fork.
4. Use a knife to cut 2–3 small vents in each pie.

Air-Fry or Bake

1. Air Fryer: Preheat to 360 °F. Brush pies with egg wash, sprinkle with cinnamon-sugar, and lightly spray with oil. Air fry in batches for 8–10 minutes, until golden and crisp.
2. Oven: Preheat to 400 °F. Place pies on a parchment-lined baking sheet, brush with egg wash, dust with cinnamon-sugar, and bake 18–22 minutes until golden.

Conclusion

Now you can enjoy McDonald’s-style apple pies anytime, without a drive-thru. Whether you prefer the speedy air fryer route or a classic oven bake, these treats deliver that signature sweet-tart filling and flaky crust. Give both methods a try, and let us know which one becomes your go-to!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the filling a day ahead?

Yes! Cook the filling, cool completely, and refrigerate in a sealed container. Bring to room temperature before assembling.

Which apples give the best balance of sweet vs. tart?

Pair Granny Smith with Honeycrisp, Gala, or Braeburn. The firm tartness of Granny Smith prevents mush, while the sweeter varieties add depth.

Can I use homemade pie dough instead of store-bought?

Absolutely. Just ensure your dough is cold and rolled to 1/8″ thickness for best flakiness.

How do I avoid cracks in the pastry?

Cut vents on top, avoid overfilling, and seal edges well with egg wash. A cold dough helps prevent tearing.

What’s the ideal air fryer temperature and time?

Set to 360°F and cook for 8–10 minutes, rotating halfway for even browning.