Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping)

If you’re looking for a dessert that warms the heart and fills the home with delightful aromas, then this Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping) is just what you need! This pie has been a family favorite of mine for years. It’s perfect for cozy gatherings, holiday celebrations, or even just a comforting treat after a busy day. The combination of sweet apples and that crumbly topping makes each slice irresistibly delicious.

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to make. You can whip it up quickly during the week or take your time on the weekend to enjoy the process. No matter when you choose to bake it, I promise it will bring smiles all around!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have an amazing dessert ready in no time.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves apple pie! It’s a classic treat that brings everyone together.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare this pie in advance and simply warm it up before serving.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of tart apples and buttery crumbs creates an unforgettable taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need to create this mouthwatering 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 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 recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative and make it your own with these fun variations:

• Add Different Fruits: Mix in some berries or pears for added flavor and texture.
• Change Up the Nuts: Try walnuts or skip them altogether if preferred!
• Use Gluten-Free Options: Substitute regular flour with almond flour or gluten-free blends for a suitable alternative.
• Spice It Up: Add some ginger or allspice to the filling for an extra kick.

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

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that your pie bakes evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pie Shell

Place your pie shell on a baking sheet to catch any spills while baking. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!

Step 3: Toss Your Apples

In a large mixing bowl, toss together the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour (or cornstarch/tapioca), lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract. Let this sit for about 10-15 minutes until syrup forms—this step helps deepen those beautiful apple flavors.

Step 4: Make the Crumb Topping

In another bowl, combine flour, sugars, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter until pea-sized crumbs form. If you’re using nuts or oats, stir them in at this stage. Chilling this mixture until you’re ready to use it will help maintain its crumbly texture.

Step 5: Assemble Your Pie

Pour the apple filling into your prepared pie shell. Then sprinkle that buttery crumb topping evenly over the apples without pressing down too hard—this helps keep everything nice and airy.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake your pie in the preheated oven for about 50–60 minutes until the topping is golden brown and bubbly. If you notice it browning too quickly at the edges, tent them with foil.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let your delicious pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2-3 hours before slicing. This allows the filling to set beautifully. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream drizzled with caramel for an extra special touch!

Now you’re all set to impress your friends and family with this scrumptious Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping). Enjoy every bite!

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

Baking a delicious Dutch Apple Pie is a rewarding experience, and these tips will help ensure it turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose the right apples: Mixing Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples gives the pie a delightful balance of tartness and sweetness, enhancing the flavor profile.
• Let the filling sit: Allowing the apple mixture to rest for 10–15 minutes ensures the sugars and spices meld together, creating a more flavorful filling with a lovely syrup.
• Use cold butter: Cutting in cold butter for the crumb topping results in that irresistible flaky texture. It helps create those beautiful, buttery crumbs that contrast so well with the tender apples.
• Monitor baking time: Every oven is different! Keep an eye on your pie during baking, and use foil to protect the edges if they brown too quickly. This ensures even cooking without burning.
• Cool before slicing: Patience is key! Letting your pie cool for 2–3 hours allows the filling to set up properly, making for cleaner slices when serving.

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

Serving your Dutch Apple Pie can be just as delightful as baking it. Here are some ideas to enhance your presentation!

Garnishes

• Whipped coconut cream: A dollop of whipped coconut cream adds a light and airy texture that complements the richness of the pie without overpowering its flavors.
• Caramel drizzle: A drizzle of vegan caramel sauce over each slice not only looks stunning but also provides an extra layer of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the spiced apples.
• Fresh mint leaves: A sprig of fresh mint on top of each slice adds a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the warm flavors of apple and cinnamon.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream adds creaminess and balances out the warm spices in the pie. It’s an all-time favorite!
• Chai tea: The warming spices in chai make it an excellent beverage pairing with this dessert. The flavors complement each other beautifully while providing a cozy touch.
• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the rich pie, making it perfect for rounding out your meal.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like carrots or Brussels sprouts add earthy flavors that nicely offset the sweetness of your dessert.

Now you’re all set to enjoy your homemade Dutch Apple Pie with Buttery Crumb Topping! 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 ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Here are some handy tips for storing and enjoying your pie later.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pie in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• If you prefer the crust crispy, reheat individual slices in the oven rather than microwaving.

Freezing

• To freeze, allow the pie to cool completely after baking.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil to prevent over-browning.
• Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

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

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

Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices, you can experiment with other varieties like Fuji or Braeburn for different flavor profiles. Just ensure they hold up well during baking.

How do I make Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping) gluten-free?

You can easily make this delicious pie gluten-free by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Also, ensure that your pie shell is made from gluten-free ingredients.

Can I prepare the crumb topping ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the crumb topping up to two days in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake your pie.

How long should I let my Dutch Apple Pie cool before serving?

It’s best to let your pie cool for about 2–3 hours on a wire rack. This will help set the filling and make slicing much easier!

Final Thoughts

This Dutch Apple Pie with a Buttery Crumb Topping is not just a dessert; it’s a heartfelt creation that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging on a cozy evening at home, I hope you enjoy making this delightful recipe as much as I do. Happy baking, and may every slice bring you comfort and happiness!