Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe

If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug, look no further than this Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe. It brings together the cozy flavors of sweet apples and warm spices, all nestled under a buttery crumble topping. This pie has become a favorite in our household, especially during family gatherings and chilly evenings. I love how it’s perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight or a festive celebration. Trust me, once you take your first bite, you’ll see why this pie is so special!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredible Flavor: The combination of different apple varieties creates an explosion of taste in every slice.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, this recipe is approachable for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves a good pie! This one is sure to impress both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the filling or the crust in advance, making it easy to whip up whenever you need it.
• Perfect with Ice Cream: What could be better than serving a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream?

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this delightful Dutch Apple Crumble Pie, you’ll only need simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have on hand. Let’s gather everything we need:

For the Pie Filling

• 1 homemade single pie crust (1 sheet of pie dough)
• 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
• Juice from half a lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
• 5 pounds apples (about 11 large apples before peeling and coring)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 & 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 3/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

For the Crumble Topping

• 1 & 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (use less if using table salt)
• 3/4 cup butter (melted, about 1 and 1/2 sticks)

Variations

One of the best things about pie is how flexible it can be! Feel free to experiment with different flavors and textures:

• Change up the apples: Use your favorite varieties or whatever you have on hand for different tastes.
• Add nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts add a delightful crunch to the crumble topping.
• Spice it up: Experiment with other spices like ginger or cloves for added warmth and depth.
• Mix in some berries: Adding fresh blueberries or raspberries can bring extra flavor and color to your pie.

How to Make Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe

Step 1: Choose Your Apples

Start by picking out your apples—5 pounds will do! I love using a mix like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Golden Delicious. Each apple variety contributes its unique flavor and texture, making for the best apple filling.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Use a microplane grater to zest just a bit of lemon peel into a skillet. Then squeeze in the juice from half your lemon. This helps keep your apples from browning while adding a hint of brightness to their flavor.

Step 3: Peel and Slice the Apples

Peel your apples with either a potato peeler or an apple peeler. Slice them into thin pieces—about 1/8 inch thick works well. I recommend peeling one apple at a time so they don’t oxidize while you work.

Step 4: Cook the Apple Mixture

Once the apples are sliced, place them in your skillet over medium heat. Add the sugars, flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom if using. Stir gently to coat everything well; we want those flavors to meld beautifully!

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Cover your skillet with a lid and let it cook for about 20 minutes. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom. The goal here is fork-tender apples that still hold their shape—taste as you go!

Step 6: Add Vanilla and Cool

Once tender, remove from heat and stir in some vanilla extract for extra flavor! Transfer this delicious filling into a pan to cool completely before assembling your pie.

Step 7: Prepare Your Pie Crust

Roll out your chilled pie dough and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp those edges nicely! This step helps create that flaky texture we all love.

Step 8: Chill Again

Pop your prepared crust back into the fridge or freezer for about half an hour while you preheat your oven to ensure maximum flakiness when baked.

Step 9: Make Your Crumble

In another bowl, combine flour, sugars, and salt for your crumble topping. Melt some butter and mix it in until it resembles wet sand with some clumps—this will create that lovely crisp texture when baked.

Step 10: Assemble Your Pie

Pour all that cooled apple filling into the chilled crust. Use about one to two cups of crumble topping to cover those beautiful apples without piling too high—save some crumble for later!

Step 11: Bake Away!

Bake at high heat first (425°F) for fifteen minutes before reducing to 350°F for another thirty-five minutes or until golden brown. The smell will drive everyone wild!

Step 12: Cool Before Slicing

Patience is key here! Let your gorgeous pie cool on a wire rack for about four hours before slicing—it’ll help set those juices just right.

And there you have it! A delightful Dutch Apple Crumble Pie that’s sure to become a beloved staple in your home as it has in mine. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe

Baking the perfect Dutch Apple Crumble Pie is an art, and with a few helpful tips, you’ll become a pie-making pro in no time!

• Choose the right apples: A blend of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Golden Delicious creates a deliciously balanced flavor. Each variety contributes its unique taste and texture, ensuring your pie is nothing short of amazing.
• Don’t rush the cooling process: Allowing the pie to cool for at least 4 hours after baking helps set the filling and keeps the crumble topping crisp. Cutting into it too soon can result in a soggy mess that doesn’t do justice to your hard work!
• Use chilled ingredients: Keeping your butter and pie crust cold before baking helps create that flaky texture we all love. Warm butter can lead to a dense crust, so take the time to chill everything beforehand.
• Adjust sweetness based on apple variety: If you’re using sweeter apples, consider reducing the amount of sugar in your filling slightly. This keeps the pie from being overly sweet and allows the natural flavors of the apples to shine.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust or add spices like nutmeg or cardamom according to your taste preference. These warm spices enhance the overall flavor profile of your pie and add an extra layer of warmth.

How to Serve Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe

Serving this delightful pie is all about creating an inviting experience that highlights its deliciousness! Whether it’s for a family gathering or a cozy night in, here are some ideas on how to present this scrumptious dessert.

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of light and airy whipped coconut cream adds a refreshing twist without any dairy. It complements the spiced apples perfectly!
• Cinnamon sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon on top elevates both presentation and flavor, enhancing that warm spice profile everyone loves.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream is a classic pairing with apple pie. The cold ice cream melts slightly when placed atop warm slices of pie, creating an irresistible combination.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over each slice adds a decadent touch that enhances the sweetness of the apples while introducing another layer of flavor.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the pie and adds color to your dessert table.
• Coffee or tea: Serving hot beverages like coffee or herbal tea alongside your pie makes for a comforting experience, perfect for ending a meal on a cozy note.

Enjoy sharing this Dutch Apple Crumble Pie with loved ones—it’s bound to be a hit at any gathering!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Dutch Apple Crumble Pie is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and enjoy it later, making it a fantastic dessert option for gatherings or cozy nights in.

Storing Leftovers

• Store the pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with plastic wrap or foil.
• After 2 days, transfer any uneaten pie to the refrigerator to keep it fresh.

Freezing

• To freeze the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating

• To reheat the pie, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm throughout.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about the Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe:

Can I use different types of apples for this Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe?

Absolutely! A mix of tart and sweet apples works best. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Golden Delicious are all excellent choices.

How long does this Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe take to prepare?

The total time is approximately 340 minutes, which includes prep time, cooking time, and cooling time.

Can I make this pie without a homemade crust?

Yes! You can use a store-bought pie crust if you’re short on time. Just ensure it’s suitable for your dietary preferences.

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

The pie is ready when the edges of the crust are brown and the crumble is golden in color. If you want a deeper brown, you can remove the foil shield during the last few minutes of baking.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe! It’s a delightful combination of flavors and textures that will warm hearts and homes. Whether it’s for a special occasion or just because you deserve a treat, this pie is sure to impress. Enjoy every slice!