Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping)

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any occasion, then you’ve found it with this Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping). There’s just something magical about the sweet aroma of apples baking in the oven, mingling with cinnamon and nutmeg. This pie is a family favorite, perfect for cozy gatherings or busy weeknights when you crave something sweet but homemade.

As you slice into this pie, you’ll find tender apples nestled under a golden, crumbly topping that is irresistible. Whether enjoyed after dinner or served at a potluck, this pie is sure to bring smiles all around.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and everyday ingredients, even novice bakers can whip this up with confidence.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet and warm flavors of this classic dessert.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the filling and topping in advance, making it easy to bake when you’re ready!
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm on its own or dress it up with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this delightful pie is half the fun! These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Pie Filling

• 1 (9-inch) deep-dish pie shell (homemade or store-bought)
• 6–7 medium apples (Granny Smith + Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, sliced ¼-inch
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup packed brown sugar
• 2 tbsp flour (or cornstarch/tapioca for GF)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 1½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg
• Pinch of salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Crumb Topping

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: ¼ cup chopped pecans or old-fashioned oats

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your Dutch Apple Pie. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Mix Up the Apples: Use a blend of your favorite apples for different flavor profiles. Try adding some sweeter varieties like Fuji or Gala for balance.
• Add a Splash of Flavor: Incorporate spices like allspice or ginger for an extra kick that complements the apples beautifully.
• Make It Nutty: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts in the filling for added texture and flavor.
• Go Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free flour blends to make this pie suitable for those avoiding gluten.

How to Make Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping)

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pie bakes evenly and gives that perfect golden-brown crust everyone loves.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Place your pie shell on a baking sheet. This little trick catches any spills while baking, saving you from a messy oven later on!

Step 3: Toss the Apples

In a large bowl, toss your sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract. Letting them sit for 10-15 minutes allows them to become juicy and flavorful.

Step 4: Mix the Crumb Topping

In another bowl, combine flour, sugars, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until pea-sized crumbs form. If you’re adding nuts or oats, stir them in now! Chilling this mixture helps create that crumbly texture we adore.

Step 5: Assemble Your Pie

Pour the apple filling into your prepared pie shell. Then sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apples—resist pressing down too hard; we want it fluffy!

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake your pie in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. If needed, tent the edges with foil if they start browning too quickly.

Step 7: Cool Before Slicing

Allow your delicious creation to cool on a wire rack for about 2–3 hours before slicing. This step helps set the filling so each slice holds its shape perfectly.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Each bite will be comforting and memorable!

Enjoy creating this Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping) as much as I do! It’s more than just dessert; it’s love baked into every slice!

Pro Tips for Making Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping)

Making the perfect Dutch apple pie is all about those little details that elevate your dessert from good to unforgettable. Here are some tips to ensure your pie comes out just right!

• Use a variety of apples – Combining tart Granny Smith apples with sweet Honeycrisp creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures, ensuring each bite is deliciously complex.

• Chill your butter – Cold butter helps create a flaky, crumbly topping. If your butter is too soft, it will blend into the flour instead of staying as distinct pieces, which is key for that yummy crunch.

• Let the filling sit – Allowing the apple mixture to rest for 10–15 minutes helps release its natural juices, creating a syrup that enhances the flavor and ensures a juicy filling without being overly watery.

• Don’t skip the cooling time – After baking, letting the pie cool on a wire rack for 2–3 hours allows the filling to set properly. This way, when you slice into it, you’ll get beautiful pieces without a messy spill.

• Top with fresh ingredients – Whether you opt for whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, adding fresh toppings can enhance flavors and add an extra layer of delight to your dessert experience.

How to Serve Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping)

Serving Dutch apple pie isn’t just about slicing it up; it’s an opportunity to create a memorable experience for your guests. Here are some ideas to make your presentation as delightful as the pie itself.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream – A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy contrast that complements the warm spices in the pie.

• Caramel drizzle – Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice not only looks stunning but also enhances the sweetness and richness of the apples.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream – The classic pairing; its creamy texture and cool temperature provide an irresistible contrast to the warm pie, melting slightly as it sits atop each slice.

• Spiced chai tea – A warm cup of spiced chai tea with its aromatic spices can enhance the cozy flavors of the apple pie, creating a comforting meal experience.

• Fresh fruit salad – A light and refreshing side dish like fruit salad can balance out the richness of the pie while adding vibrant colors to your table setting.

• Cheese platter – Offering slices of sharp cheddar cheese alongside your pie can create a delightful sweet-and-savory combination that many enjoy. The cheese’s saltiness pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the apples.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll be well on your way to impressing friends and family with your delicious Dutch apple pie!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Dutch Apple Pie with a Buttery Crumb Topping is not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it later, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or cozy family dinners.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely at room temperature.
• Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.

Freezing

• Cool the pie completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place the wrapped pie in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any plastic wrapping from the frozen pie.
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
• Bake for about 25-30 minutes if thawed, or 50-60 minutes if frozen, until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious dessert.

Can I use other types of apples in Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping)?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp create a wonderful balance of tart and sweet, you can experiment with other varieties like Fuji, Braeburn, or McIntosh to find your perfect mix.

How do I ensure my crumb topping is perfectly buttery?

To achieve that irresistible buttery crumb topping, make sure your butter is very cold before cutting it into the flour mixture. This helps create those lovely pea-sized crumbs that bake to golden perfection!

Can I make Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping) gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch/tapioca for thickening. Your pie will still be delicious!

What can I serve with Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping)?

This pie is fantastic on its own but pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra special touch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Dutch Apple Pie with Buttery Crumb Topping as much as I do! It’s not just about savoring each slice; it’s about creating warm memories in your kitchen. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because you deserve something sweet, this recipe is sure to bring joy. Happy baking!