Looking for the ultimate apple pie recipe? Look no further than this Dutch Apple Pie, also known as Apple Crumb Pie. This irresistible dessert is made with tart and tender Granny Smith apples, layered in a buttery, flaky pie crust, and complemented by a sweet cinnamon-spiced filling that offers the perfect balance of sweetness and warmth. The finishing touch is a deliciously crunchy, sweet crumb topping made with pecans, adding extra texture and flavor that takes this classic dessert to the next level.
Whether you’re preparing it for holiday gatherings, fall baking sessions, or simply craving a comforting treat, this Dutch Apple Pie delivers a delightful bite every time. The combination of juicy apples, rich spice, and a crispy topping makes it a standout dessert that’s sure to impress friends and family alike. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the perfect indulgence.
How to Make Dutch Apple Pie (Apple Crumb Pie) – A Cozy, Homemade Delight
10
servings30
minutes1
hour4,430
kcalIngredients
For the Dutch Apple Pie:1 pie crust (half of our pie dough recipe)
2 1/4 lbs Granny Smith apples (about 6 medium apples)1 tsp cinnamon8 Tbsp unsalted butter
3 Tbsp all-purpose flour
1/4 cup water
1 cup granulated sugar
For the Crumb Topping:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup packed brown sugar2 Tbsp granulated sugar1/4 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt8 Tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature)1/2 cup chopped pecans
Directions
- Prepare the Pie Crust: Preheat your oven to 375˚F (190˚C), positioning one rack at the bottom and one in the center of the oven. Roll out your chilled pie dough on a lightly floured surface until it forms a 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie pan. Fold any excess dough under the edge and crimp it to form a decorative border. Set aside.
- Prepare the Apple Filling: Peel, core, and slice the apples into 1/4-inch thick slices (you should have approximately 7 cups of sliced apples). Stir in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to coat the apple slices evenly. Set the mixture aside while you prepare the filling.
- Cook the Apple Filling: In a medium saucepan, melt 8 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Whisk in 3 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux. Gradually add 1/4 cup water and 1 cup granulated sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 3 minutes, whisking frequently. Once the mixture thickens, remove from the heat and pour it over the sliced apples, stirring gently to coat. Transfer the apple mixture to the prepared pie crust.
- Gingerbread gingerbread lemon dropsMake the Crumb Topping: In a separate bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Add the room-temperature butter and mix with your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture forms pea-sized crumbs. Stir in the chopped pecans, then evenly spread the crumb topping over the apple filling.Gingerbread gingerbread lemon drops
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake uncovered at 375˚F for 50-60 minutes, or until the center registers 175˚F on a thermometer. To prevent drips, place a sheet of foil on the bottom rack of the oven. If the crumb topping begins to brown too much, loosely cover it with foil. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for 1 hour on a wire rack. This cooling time allows the filling to set for a clean slice.
Notes
- Use Firm Apples: For the best texture and flavor, use tart, firm apples like Granny Smith. They hold their shape well during baking and provide a nice balance to the sweet filling.
- Precise Baking Temperature: Ensure that the pie reaches an internal temperature of 175˚F in the center for the filling to be fully set. A thermometer is your best tool for ensuring the pie is perfectly baked.
- Cooling Time is Crucial: Let the pie cool for at least 1 hour before slicing. This step is essential to allow the filling to firm up, preventing it from running out when you cut into the pie.
This Dutch Apple Pie (Apple Crumb Pie) combines the perfect balance of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and a crunchy, buttery crumb topping, making it an irresistible dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday gathering or simply craving a comforting homemade treat, this pie promises a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will leave a lasting impression. With a buttery, flaky crust and a rich, flavorful filling, it’s the perfect way to showcase the essence of fall in every bite. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgence. No matter how you enjoy it, this pie is sure to become a cherished recipe in your dessert repertoire.
