Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping)

If you’re looking for a warm and comforting dessert that feels like a hug in pie form, then this Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping) is just what you need! This recipe holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of cozy family gatherings, where the sweet aroma of baked apples fills the kitchen, making everyone feel right at home. Whether you’re whipping it up for a busy weeknight treat or serving it at a festive gathering, this pie is sure to delight.

The combination of tart Granny Smith and sweet Honeycrisp apples creates a beautiful balance of flavors, while the buttery crumb topping adds that extra crunch we all crave. Trust me; once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why this Dutch Apple Pie has become a favorite among friends and family alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, this recipe is perfect even for beginner bakers.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the sweet apple filling and crunchy topping—it’s a crowd-pleaser!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the pie ahead of time and bake it just before serving. It’s great for meal prep!
• Deliciously Flavorful: The blend of spices and fresh apples creates an irresistible flavor that fills your home with warmth.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy ingredients to create this delicious Dutch Apple Pie! All you need are some simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything together so we can start baking!

For the 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

One of the best things about this Dutch Apple Pie recipe is its flexibility. You can easily adapt it to suit your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Add some spice: Feel free to mix in additional spices like ginger or allspice for an extra kick.
• Change up the fruit: Mix in other fruits like pears or berries for a delightful twist.
• Go nutty: Toss in some walnuts or almonds for added texture in the filling.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour options for both the pie crust and crumb topping without sacrificing taste!

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pie bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden brown color on top.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pie Shell

Place your pie shell on a baking sheet. This little trick will catch any spills while baking, making cleanup so much easier!

Step 3: Make the Apple Filling

In a large bowl, toss your sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour (or cornstarch/tapioca), lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract. Let this mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes until syrup forms. This step allows the flavors to meld together beautifully!

Step 4: Create the Crumb Topping

In another bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, 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! Chill until you’re ready to use it.

Step 5: Assemble Your Pie

Pour that delicious apple filling into your prepared pie shell. Then sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apples—don’t press down; we want that lovely texture!

Step 6: Bake It Up!

Bake your pie in the preheated oven for about 50–60 minutes until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. If you notice that the edges are browning too quickly, gently tent them with foil.

Step 7: Cool Before Slicing

Let your pie cool on a wire rack for about 2–3 hours before slicing. This cooling time helps set the filling so each slice holds together beautifully when served.

Step 8: Serve Warm

Finally, serve your Dutch Apple Pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream drizzled with caramel sauce for an extra treat!

Now you’re ready to enjoy every delicious bite of this comforting dessert!

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

Making the perfect Dutch Apple Pie is easier than you think! With a few simple tips, you can elevate your pie to gourmet status.

• Choose the right apples: Using a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples provides a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness, ensuring your filling is well-rounded and flavorful.
• Let the filling rest: Allowing the apple mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes helps the sugars draw out moisture from the apples, creating a lovely syrup that enhances the flavor and texture of your filling.
• Keep your butter cold: When making the crumb topping, using cold butter helps achieve that desired crumbly texture. It prevents the butter from melting too quickly, resulting in a beautifully crisp topping.
• Don’t skip the foil tent: If you notice the edges of your pie browning too quickly during baking, tenting them with foil will help prevent burning while allowing the filling to cook through.
• Cool before serving: Letting your pie cool for 2-3 hours not only sets the filling but also enhances the flavors as they meld together. This makes each slice a delightful experience!

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

Serving your Dutch Apple Pie can transform it from simply delicious to absolutely stunning! Here are some ideas to present this classic dessert beautifully.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dairy-free alternative that adds lightness and a hint of sweetness, making it an excellent companion for warm pie slices.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel over each slice adds a rich, indulgent touch that complements the apple flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream adds a contrasting temperature and creaminess that pairs wonderfully with warm pie, enhancing every bite.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing side of mixed seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the pie and adds a burst of freshness to your dessert spread.
• Coffee or chai tea: Offering a warm beverage like coffee or spiced chai tea can provide a cozy finish to your meal, enhancing the flavors of your Dutch Apple Pie while inviting conversation around the table.
• Cheese platter: A selection of cheeses, particularly sharp cheddar or creamy Brie, complements the sweet and spicy notes in the pie, creating an unexpected but delightful pairing.

Now you’re all set to bake up this comforting delight and impress your friends and family! Enjoy every slice of your delicious Dutch Apple Pie with Buttery Crumb Topping. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Dutch Apple Pie with Buttery Crumb Topping is perfect for meal prep and can be made ahead of time. You can enjoy it fresh or store it for later, making it a delightful treat whenever you crave something sweet.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer, individual slices can be stored in airtight containers.

Freezing

• Once cooled, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Label the wrapping with the date and type of pie.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
• For individual slices, use airtight containers or freezer bags.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen pie in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
• Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through. For slices, heat for about 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

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

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices for their balance of tartness and sweetness, feel free to experiment with your favorite apple varieties. Just ensure they hold up well during baking.

How do I prevent my Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping) from getting soggy?

To avoid a soggy crust, make sure to pre-bake your pie shell slightly before adding the filling. Additionally, letting the apple mixture sit allows juices to form; draining some of this excess liquid can help keep your crust crisp.

Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?

Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch/tapioca starch as mentioned in the ingredients list. This will maintain the delicious flavor and texture while accommodating gluten sensitivities.

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

This pie is delightful on its own but pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. It’s perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Dutch Apple Pie with Buttery Crumb Topping! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it all by yourself, may every slice bring comfort and happiness. Enjoy baking this delightful treat!