Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping)

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that warms your heart and fills your home with the sweet scent of cinnamon and baked apples, then this Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping) is just what you need! This recipe has been a cherished part of my family gatherings for years. It’s perfect for everything from busy weeknights to festive celebrations. The combination of tart and sweet apples, topped with that irresistible buttery crumb, makes each slice a little slice of heaven.

What I love most about this pie is how easy it is to make. You don’t need to be a baking expert to impress your friends and family with this delightful treat. Plus, it’s always a crowd-pleaser! So grab your apron, and let’s dive into making this delicious pie together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll have this pie whipped up in no time!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone from kids to grandparents loves the classic flavors of apple pie.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it a day in advance and simply warm it up for guests.
• Comforting Flavor: The combination of fresh apples and buttery crumbs creates a cozy feeling that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! For this Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping), you’ll need wholesome staples that combine beautifully for an unforgettable dessert.

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 recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with these fun variations:

• Add More Spice: Try adding cloves or allspice for an extra kick.
• Switch Up the Apples: Use different varieties like Fuji or Braeburn for unique flavors.
• Go Nutty: Add walnuts or almonds into the topping for added crunch.
• Make it Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend!

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 because starting with a hot oven ensures that your crust will bake evenly and become perfectly golden brown.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pie Shell

Place your pie shell on a baking sheet. This is important as it catches any spills while baking, saving you from messy cleanup later!

Step 3: Toss the Apples

In a large bowl, toss your sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla. Let them sit for about 10–15 minutes until they create a lovely syrup—the magic happens here!

Step 4: Make the Crumb Topping

In another bowl, combine flour, sugars, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in cold butter until pea-sized crumbs form. Stir in nuts or oats if you’d like. Chilling this mixture helps keep it crumbly when baked.

Step 5: Assemble Your Pie

Pour the apple filling into the prepared pie shell. Then sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apples without packing it down—this allows it to remain light and crisp while baking.

Step 6: Bake Away!

Bake in your preheated oven for about 50–60 minutes until the topping turns golden brown and you see bubbles coming from the filling. If it browns too quickly, tent the edges with foil.

Step 7: Cool Before Slicing

Let your pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2–3 hours before slicing. This helps set the filling so each piece holds its shape beautifully when served.

Step 8: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

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

Baking the perfect Dutch Apple Pie can be a delightful experience, and these pro tips will help you achieve that golden crust and delicious filling!

• Choose the Right Apples: Using a combination of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples offers the best balance of tartness and sweetness. Their firm texture also helps prevent mushiness during baking.
• Let the Filling Rest: Allowing your apple mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes enables the sugars to draw out moisture, creating a syrup that enhances flavor and ensures even distribution in your pie.
• Chill Your Butter: Keep your butter cold when making the crumb topping. This creates a flaky texture as it melts while baking, resulting in that irresistible, buttery crumble on top.
• Tent with Foil: If you notice the crumb topping browning too quickly, tent the edges of your pie with foil. This prevents burning while allowing the filling to cook through completely.
• Cool Before Slicing: Patience is key! Letting your pie cool for 2-3 hours allows the filling to set properly, making slicing easier and ensuring each piece holds its shape beautifully.

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

Serving your Dutch Apple Pie can be just as fun as baking it! Here are some ideas to make this dessert even more special.

Garnishes

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing, the creaminess of vanilla ice cream complements the warm spices in the pie perfectly.
• Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy whipped cream adds an airy texture that balances out the dense filling.
• Caramel Drizzle: A warm caramel drizzle provides an extra touch of sweetness and enhances the overall flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette can cut through the sweetness of the pie, offering a refreshing contrast.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add a savory element to your meal, making it feel more balanced.
• Cheese Platter: Pairing your dessert with a selection of cheeses (like sharp cheddar or tangy goat cheese) creates an interesting flavor combination that is sure to impress guests.
• Hot Spiced Cider: Enhance the cozy atmosphere by serving warm spiced cider alongside your pie. It echoes the flavors of fall and brings warmth to any gathering.

Enjoy every bite of your Dutch Apple Pie with Buttery Crumb Topping—it’s sure to be a hit at any table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Dutch Apple Pie with a Buttery Crumb Topping is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, so it’s ready for those cozy evenings or gatherings. Here’s how you can store it, freeze it, and reheat it to enjoy at your convenience.

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 days.
• For best results, consume within a few days to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Let the pie cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal taste.
• To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any plastic wrap and cover loosely with aluminum foil.
• Bake for about 15-20 minutes, until warmed through.
• Serve warm and enjoy that delicious buttery crumb topping!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful dessert.

Can I make Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping) ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the pie a day or two in advance. Just store it in the fridge once cooled, and it will be ready for you when you need it.

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

For a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are ideal choices. They hold their shape well during baking!

Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?

Yes! You can use gluten-free flour or cornstarch instead of regular flour. Additionally, feel free to swap out the pecans for another nut or omit them altogether if preferred.

How long does Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping) last?

When stored properly in the fridge, this pie can last up to 3 days. If frozen, it will keep well for about 3 months.

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

This pie is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Dutch Apple Pie with a Buttery Crumb Topping! It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience filled with warmth and comfort. Whether you’re baking for family or friends, this recipe is bound to bring smiles all around. Enjoy every slice and feel free to share your creations – happy baking!