Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping)

If you’re looking for a dessert that warms your heart and fills your home with the sweet aroma of baked apples, this Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping) is just what you need. This pie has been a family favorite for years, perfect for cozy gatherings or even those busy weeknights when you need a little sweetness to brighten your day. The combination of tart Granny Smith and sweet Honeycrisp apples creates a delightful flavor that’s simply irresistible!

What makes this Dutch Apple Pie truly special is its buttery crumb topping that adds an extra crunch to every bite. It’s an easy recipe to follow, and I promise it will impress anyone lucky enough to share in a slice. So grab your apron, and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple steps, you’ll have a delicious pie ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves the classic flavors of apple pie, making it perfect for any gathering.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the filling in advance and bake it just before serving.
• Deliciously Comforting: The combination of warm apples and buttery topping brings comfort to any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses straightforward, wholesome ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Gather these treasures for your delicious Dutch Apple Pie:

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 is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Mix Up the Apples: Try using different varieties like Fuji or Braeburn for unique flavors.
• Add Spices: Experiment with additional spices like allspice or cloves for extra warmth.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.
• Top It Off: Serve with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream or whipped coconut cream for added indulgence.

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 step is crucial as it ensures that your pie bakes evenly and develops that beautiful golden crust we all love.

Step 2: Prepare the Pie Shell

Place your pie shell on a baking sheet. This will catch any spills during baking—trust me, you’ll thank yourself later!

Step 3: Toss Those Apples

In a large bowl, toss together the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla. Letting them sit for 10-15 minutes allows the sugars to draw out some moisture from the apples and create a lovely syrup.

Step 4: Make the Crumb Topping

In another bowl, combine flour, both sugars, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs. If you’re adding nuts or oats, stir them in now. Chilling this mixture helps form an amazing crumb topping when baked.

Step 5: Assemble Your Pie

Pour the apple filling into your prepared pie shell. Then sprinkle that crumb topping evenly over the apples without pressing down—this ensures it stays nice and crumbly.

Step 6: Bake Away!

Bake in your preheated oven for about 50–60 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and you can see bubbling filling through gaps. If it starts browning too quickly at the edges, tent them with foil.

Step 7: Cool Before Slicing

Once baked to perfection, let your pie cool on a wire rack for about 2–3 hours before slicing. Cooling allows the filling to set beautifully so every slice looks perfect!

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve warm alongside vanilla ice cream or whipped cream drizzled with caramel sauce if you want to take it over-the-top delicious! Enjoy each bite knowing you’ve created something truly special!

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

Creating the perfect Dutch Apple Pie is all about attention to detail and a little bit of love! Here are some pro tips to ensure your pie turns out delicious every time.

• Choose the right apples: Opt for a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination creates a balanced flavor profile that enhances the overall taste of your pie.
• Allow the filling to sit: Letting the apple mixture sit for 10-15 minutes allows the sugars to draw out the juices, creating a flavorful syrup that coats the apples and prevents a soggy crust.
• Use cold butter for crumb topping: Cold butter helps create that delightful crumbly texture you want in your topping. It ensures that when baked, the butter melts and forms those irresistible crunchy bits!
• Don’t skip cooling time: Allowing your pie to cool on a wire rack for 2-3 hours before slicing helps the filling set properly, making it easier to cut clean slices without spilling.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other spices like ginger or allspice in small amounts to personalize your pie’s flavor. A pinch can make all the difference!

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

Serving your Dutch Apple Pie can be just as enjoyable as making it! Here are some creative ways to present this delightful dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy touch that contrasts beautifully with the warm pie.
• Caramel drizzle: A drizzle of caramel sauce brings an extra layer of sweetness, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
• Cinnamon sugar sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top before serving gives an inviting aroma and an added crunch.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing! Creamy vanilla ice cream melts slightly on warm pie, creating an indulgent treat perfect for any occasion.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad balances out the richness of the pie while adding brightness and color to your dessert table.
• Cheese platter: Offer slices of sharp cheddar or aged gouda on the side. The savory notes complement the sweetness of the pie wonderfully.
• Coffee or tea: Serving a warm beverage alongside your dessert can enhance flavors and provide a cozy finish to your meal.

With these tips and serving ideas, you’re sure to impress your family and friends with this delightful Dutch Apple Pie featuring its buttery crumb topping. Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Dutch Apple Pie with a Buttery Crumb Topping is perfect for meal prep, as it can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment. Here’s how to keep it fresh!

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• If you prefer, refrigerate it for longer freshness—up to 5 days.
• Cover the pie with plastic wrap or foil to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• For best results, freeze before baking; simply bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

• To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• You can also microwave individual slices for about 30-60 seconds, though the crust may lose some of its crispness.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delicious recipe, you’re in the right place!

What kind of apples are best for Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping)?

The best apples for this pie are Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. Their balance of tartness and sweetness creates a delightful flavor that pairs perfectly with the buttery crumb topping.

Can I use gluten-free flour in this Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping)?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or cornstarch/tapioca for the filling and crumb topping without compromising flavor or texture.

How do I know when my Dutch Apple Pie is done baking?

Your pie is ready when the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly. If the edges brown too quickly, tent them with foil during baking.

Can I add more spices to my Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping)?

Definitely! Feel free to experiment by adding spices like ginger or allspice to enhance the flavor profile of your pie.

Final Thoughts

Making a Dutch Apple Pie with Buttery Crumb Topping is not just about enjoying a delicious dessert; it’s about sharing warmth and comfort with loved ones. I hope you find joy in making this pie as much as I do. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because you deserve something sweet, I’m sure you’ll love every bite! Happy baking!