Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping)

If you’re looking for a comforting dessert that brings warmth to any gathering, this Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping) is the perfect choice. It combines the tartness of fresh apples with a sweet, crumbly topping that will have everyone reaching for seconds. This pie has been a family favorite for years, and it’s so easy to make that it’s become my go-to for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a festive holiday feast, this pie never fails to impress!

The magic of this recipe lies in its simple ingredients and the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes. You’ll find yourself daydreaming about that first warm slice topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel. Trust me; your friends and family will be asking for the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delicious dessert without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly: The sweet and comforting flavors appeal to both kids and adults, making it a hit at any gathering.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the filling and topping in advance, making it easy to bake when you need it.
• Flexible Ingredients: Use whatever apples you have on hand, or try adding your favorite nuts or oats for extra crunch!
• Deliciously Satisfying: The buttery crumb topping paired with spiced apples creates an irresistible flavor combination.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping). You likely have most of them in your kitchen already!

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

This Dutch Apple Pie recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you like or what you have on hand.

• Swap the Apples: Try using different types of apples like Fuji or Gala for a sweeter taste.
• Add Spices: Experiment with spices such as ginger or allspice for an extra kick!
• Nutty Crunch: Include some chopped walnuts or almonds in the crumb topping for added texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour blends and cornstarch for the filling.

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 from the moment you pop it in.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pie Shell

Place your pie shell on a baking sheet. This small step helps catch any spills while baking, keeping your oven clean and tidy.

Step 3: Toss Your 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 moisture from the apples, creating a lovely syrup.

Step 4: Make the Crumb Topping

In another bowl, combine flour, sugars, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until pea-sized crumbs form. If you’re adding nuts or oats, stir those in now! Chill this mixture until you’re ready to assemble.

Step 5: Assemble Your Pie

Pour the apple filling into your prepared pie shell. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apples without pressing it down—this keeps it light and crumbly!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake your pie for 50–60 minutes until the topping is golden brown and you see bubbles forming in the filling. If the edges start browning too quickly, 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 waiting period helps set the filling so each slice holds its shape beautifully.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream drizzled with caramel sauce if desired. Enjoy every bite of this scrumptious dessert!

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

Making the perfect Dutch apple pie is easier than you might think! With a few handy tips, you can elevate your pie to new heights.

• Choose the right apples: Using a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples gives your pie the perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, creating a delightful flavor profile.

• Let the filling rest: Allowing the apple mixture to sit for 10–15 minutes helps the sugars and juices meld together. This step ensures a syrupy filling that’s bursting with flavor once baked!

• Keep ingredients cold: When making the crumb topping, ensure your butter is cold. This helps create that flaky texture we all love; warm butter can lead to a dense topping.

• Don’t skip the chilling step: After preparing your crumb topping, chilling it before baking allows it to retain its shape rather than melting into the filling. This results in a beautiful, crunchy topping!

• Watch for browning: If you notice the edges of your pie browning too quickly while baking, don’t hesitate to tent them with foil. This protects against burning while allowing the filling to cook through.

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

Serving your Dutch apple pie is just as important as making it! Here are some delightful ideas to present this classic dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Scoop of vanilla ice cream: A generous scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on top adds richness and balances the warmth of the pie.
• Whipped cream: Light and airy whipped cream is always a crowd-pleaser, providing a touch of sweetness without overwhelming flavors.
• Caramel drizzle: A drizzle of caramel sauce not only enhances appearance but also adds an extra layer of indulgence that complements the spices in the pie.

Side Dishes

• Crisp green salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of apple pie, cleansing your palate between bites.
• Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses like Brie or Gouda pairs wonderfully with sweet desserts. The creamy textures balance out the tartness of the apples.
• Spiced chai tea: Warm spiced chai tea brings out the flavors in your pie, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere perfect for gatherings.
• Roasted vegetables: A side of roasted seasonal vegetables provides a hearty complement that rounds out your meal without overshadowing dessert.

With these serving suggestions and tips, your Dutch apple pie will be sure to impress! Whether it’s for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this recipe is bound to bring smiles all around. Happy baking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Dutch Apple Pie with a Buttery Crumb Topping is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Here’s how to store it or even freeze it for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the pie loosely with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• For individual slices, wrap them in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container.

Freezing

• To freeze the pie, allow it to cool completely first.
• Wrap the whole pie tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
• You can also freeze individual slices using the same wrapping method.

Reheating

• To reheat a whole frozen pie, remove from the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover with foil; bake for about 30-40 minutes until heated through.
• For individual slices, you can microwave them on a microwave-safe plate for about 1-2 minutes or until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Dutch Apple Pie with a Buttery Crumb Topping!

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

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are fantastic choices for their balance of tartness and sweetness, feel free to mix in other varieties like Fuji or Braeburn for added flavor.

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

To avoid a soggy bottom crust, make sure to pre-bake your pie shell slightly before adding the apple filling. Additionally, letting the apple mixture sit with sugar helps draw out excess moisture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend or use cornstarch/tapioca as noted in the ingredients. The crumb topping will still be delicious!

What can 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 even a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Dutch Apple Pie with a Buttery Crumb Topping! It’s not just a recipe; it’s an opportunity to create sweet memories around your kitchen table. Remember, each bite is filled with love and warmth—perfect for sharing with friends and family. Enjoy every slice!