Nothing feels more like fall than a slice of warm apple pie crowned with a scoop of ice cream. The crisp apples, the cinnamon spice, and the cold cream melting into the pie crust is pure comfort. But here’s the secret: the better your ice cream, the better your pie à la mode. That’s why I always make my own vanilla — and I’ll show you how to do the same with just a few simple tools.
Why Ice Cream and Apple Pie Are a Match Made in Heaven
Apple pie is already delicious, but pair it with ice cream and you have a dessert that’s indulgent, balanced, and unforgettable. The ice cream cools the hot filling, creating a creamy sauce that binds everything together. It’s no wonder this pairing has stayed a favorite for generations.\
Easy Twists to Refresh a Classic
If you love experimenting, try these small upgrades to make your pie à la mode extra special:
- Cinnamon Vanilla: Stir a teaspoon of ground cinnamon into your homemade vanilla base.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle candied pecans or granola over your scoop.
- Boozy Drizzle: Add a splash of bourbon caramel sauce for a grown-up treat.
- In the twists section, add: “
All these ideas are fun — but they still depend on one essential ingredient: a rich, creamy scoop of vanilla ice cream. Want even more ideas? Check out my guide to the Best Boozy Desserts to Serve with Ice Cream This Fall.
🍨 My Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe
My homemade vanilla ice cream recipe is the perfect finishing touch for apple pie. It’s custard-based for creaminess, uses real vanilla for depth, and comes together beautifully in an ice cream maker. Once you try it, you’ll never want to buy store-bought again.
👉 Get My Homemade Vanilla Ice Cream Recipe Here
🛒 Shop My Ice Cream Essentials
To make the best homemade vanilla ice cream, you’ll want a few simple tools that I personally use and recommend:
- Best Ice Cream Maker for Beginners
Cuisinart ICE-21 – affordable, reliable, and perfect for first-time ice cream makers. - My Secret Ingredient
Nielsen-Massey Vanilla Bean Paste– richer, more aromatic than extract for that deep vanilla flavor. - Storage Made Simple
Reusable Freezer Containers – keeps your ice cream fresh and scoopable.
Each of these makes the process smoother and the results better — plus, they’ll last you for years of homemade ice cream adventures.
🍎 Final Scoop
Apple pie à la mode is more than just dessert — it’s a cozy autumn ritual. Whether you keep it classic or dress it up with caramel and crunch, the real star is the ice cream. With my homemade vanilla recipe and the right tools, you’ll have everything you need to make this timeless pairing unforgettable.
If you prefer apple ice cream, then try my Caramel Apple Ice – another fall favorite.
👉 Ready to upgrade your fall desserts? Get my vanilla ice cream recipe here and start scooping!