Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping)

If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dessert that brings back sweet memories, you’ve come to the right place! This Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping) is a cherished family recipe that has been passed down through generations. The aroma of cinnamon and baked apples fills the kitchen, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight or a delightful family gathering. It’s the kind of pie that invites everyone to gather around the table, sharing stories and laughter while enjoying each delicious slice.

What makes this pie truly special is its buttery crumb topping that adds a lovely crunch to the tender apples underneath. Each bite is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it an instant favorite among friends and family alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful pie in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids adore the sweet apple filling and crumbly topping, ensuring everyone leaves the table happy.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday feast or an everyday dessert, this pie fits right in!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it in advance, making it an easy choice for entertaining.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh apples and warm spices creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping) uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

One of the best things about this Dutch Apple Pie is its flexibility! Feel free to adapt it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Change Up the Apples: Experiment with different varieties like Fuji or Braeburn for unique flavors.
• Add Some Spice: Mix in other spices like allspice or ginger for an extra kick!
• Make It Nutty: Stir in those chopped pecans or oats into your crumb topping for added texture.
• Go Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or oat flour.

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 step ensures that your pie bakes evenly and develops that golden crust we all love.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pie Shell

Place your pie shell on a baking sheet. This simple step helps catch any drips during baking so your oven stays clean. No one wants to deal with burnt sugar spills!

Step 3: Toss the Apples

In a large bowl, toss those beautiful apple slices with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla. Letting them sit for 10–15 minutes allows the juices to mix together beautifully, creating that delicious syrupy filling.

Step 4: Make the Crumb Topping

In another bowl, combine flour, sugars, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in cold butter until pea-sized crumbs form. This is where all the magic happens—the buttery crumbs will add such great texture on top of those soft apples!

Step 5: Assemble Your Pie

Pour the apple mixture into your prepared pie shell. Then sprinkle on that crumb topping evenly without pressing it down too hard. This helps maintain those lovely crunchy bits on top!

Step 6: Bake Your Pie

Bake for 50–60 minutes until the topping is golden brown and you see bubbling from the apple filling. If you notice it browning too quickly, tent those edges with foil to protect them.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Once baked to perfection, let your pie cool on a wire rack for about 2–3 hours before slicing. This step helps set the filling so every slice holds together beautifully!

Step 8: Enjoy!

Serve your Dutch Apple Pie warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. Everyone will be coming back for more!

I hope you enjoy making this delicious Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping) as much as I do! Happy baking!

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

Creating the perfect Dutch Apple Pie is all about mastering the details, so here are some tips to ensure your pie turns out delicious every time!

• Use a mix of apples: Combining Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples not only gives your pie a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness but also adds varied textures for that delightful bite.

• Don’t skip the resting time: Allowing the apple mixture to sit for 10–15 minutes before baking enhances the flavor as it helps develop a syrup that will keep the filling moist and delicious.

• Chill your ingredients: Keeping your butter cold when making the crumb topping helps create that flaky, buttery texture we all love in pie crusts and toppings.

• Watch your baking time: Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your pie as it bakes. If the topping starts browning too quickly, tent it with foil to prevent burning while allowing the filling to cook through.

• Let it cool before slicing: Patience is key! Allowing your pie to cool for 2–3 hours on a wire rack ensures that the filling sets properly, making for cleaner slices when serving.

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

Presenting your Dutch Apple Pie beautifully can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience!

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of light, fluffy whipped cream adds creaminess and balances out the sweetness of the pie.
• Caramel drizzle: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over each slice creates an irresistible treat that enhances the flavors of apple and cinnamon.
• Vanilla ice cream: Serving warm pie with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla yogurt: A tangy side of vanilla yogurt complements the sweetness of the pie while offering a refreshing balance.
• Cinnamon-spiced roasted nuts: These crunchy bites add an extra layer of flavor and texture, making them a perfect complement to your dessert.
• Fresh fruit salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits refreshes the palate and adds a burst of color to your table setting.
• Coffee or herbal tea: Pairing this sweet dessert with a warm beverage can enhance its comforting qualities, making for a cozy ending to any meal.

Now that you have all these tips and serving ideas at hand, you’re well on your way to impressing friends and family with your delightful Dutch Apple Pie! Enjoy every slice!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Dutch Apple Pie with a Buttery Crumb Topping is perfect for meal prep! You can make it in advance and enjoy the delightful flavors over several days. Here’s how to store it, freeze it, and reheat it for those cozy moments.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, ensure the pie is completely cooled.
• Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best results, slice before freezing for easy portions!

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Remove any plastic wrap before covering with foil.
• Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making 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 excellent choices for their balance of sweetness and tartness, you can also experiment with other varieties like Fuji or Braeburn.

How long does Dutch Apple Pie with a Buttery Crumb Topping last at room temperature?

Dutch Apple Pie can be kept at room temperature for up to two days, but it’s best stored in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness beyond that.

Can I use gluten-free flour in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or cornstarch/tapioca for the filling. The crumb topping can also be adapted using gluten-free flour.

Is it possible to make the crumb topping without butter?

Yes! You can replace the butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine for a dairy-free option while still achieving that delicious crumb topping texture.

What is the best way to serve Dutch Apple Pie?

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a dollop of whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Each option enhances the comforting flavors of this classic dessert!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Dutch Apple Pie with a Buttery Crumb Topping as much as I do! It’s not just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate that brings everyone together. Whether you’re serving it at gatherings or enjoying a slice during cozy nights in, this pie is sure to become a family favorite. Happy baking!