Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping)

If you’re looking for a dessert that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, this Dutch Apple Pie (with a Buttery Crumb Topping) is just the ticket. It’s one of those recipes that feels like home, bringing families together around the kitchen table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, this pie never fails to impress. The sweet aroma of cinnamon and baked apples fills the air, making it hard to resist sneaking a slice before dinner!

This recipe is special because it balances tender apples with a delightful crumb topping that’s both buttery and slightly crunchy. It’s comfort food at its finest, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying on your own with a good book.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Don’t worry if you’re not an expert baker! This pie uses simple techniques that anyone can master.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the sweet apple filling and crumbly topping—it’s a dessert everyone can agree on!
• Make Ahead: You can prepare this pie in advance, so it’s ready whenever you are. Just bake it fresh when you need it!
• Versatile Flavor: With classic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this pie has the warm flavors that scream comfort.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a birthday party, or just because, this pie fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for this Dutch Apple Pie are wholesome and straightforward. You likely have most of them in your kitchen already!

For the Pie 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 recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Add Different Apples: Experiment with different apple varieties like Fuji or Braeburn for unique flavors.
• Incorporate Spices: Try adding ginger or allspice for an extra kick in flavor.
• Make It Nutty: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds to the filling or topping for added texture.
• Oat Topping Twist: Use old-fashioned oats in the crumb topping for a heartier crunch.

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 your pie bakes evenly and reaches that golden perfection.

Step 2: Prepare Your Pie Shell

Place your pie shell on a baking sheet. This little trick catches any juices that might spill over during baking, saving you from messy clean-up later!

Step 3: Toss the Apples

In a large bowl, toss your sliced apples with sugars, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla. This step is key because it allows the apples to soak up all those delicious flavors while creating syrup as they sit!

Step 4: Let the Apples Rest

Allow your apple mixture to sit for about 10–15 minutes until syrup forms at the bottom of the bowl. This enhances the sweetness and makes sure every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 5: Make the Crumb Topping

In another bowl, combine flour, sugars, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in cold butter until mixture resembles pea-sized crumbs—this will create that delightful crumbly texture we love!

Step 6: Stir in Nuts/Oats (Optional)

If you’re using nuts or oats for crunchiness in your topping, stir them into your crumb mixture now. Set aside while you prepare your filling.

Step 7: Assemble Your Pie

Pour your apple filling into the prepared pie shell. Then sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apples without pressing down too hard; we want that fluffy texture!

Step 8: Bake Away!

Bake your pie for about 50–60 minutes until the topping turns golden brown and you see bubbling juices around the edges. If it browns too quickly, tent those edges with foil.

Step 9: Cool Before Slicing

Let your pie cool on a wire rack for about 2–3 hours before slicing. This waiting period helps set up that delicious filling so each slice holds its shape.

Step 10: Serve Warm

Serve slices warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream drizzled with caramel if you’re feeling indulgent! Enjoy every bite of this comforting classic!

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

Making the perfect Dutch Apple Pie is all about attention to detail and a little love in the kitchen. Here are some pro tips to ensure your pie turns out delicious every time:

• Use a mix of apples: Combining tart Granny Smith apples with sweet Honeycrisp gives your pie a wonderful depth of flavor and balance that will delight your taste buds.

• Chill your butter: Keeping your butter cold while making the crumb topping helps create that desirable flaky texture. Warm butter can lead to a doughy topping instead of the crumbly goodness we all crave!

• Let the filling sit: Allowing your apple mixture to rest for 10–15 minutes after tossing it with the sugars and spices lets the flavors meld beautifully and creates a syrupy filling that enhances each bite.

• Tent with foil if necessary: If you notice the topping browning too quickly, covering the edges with foil will prevent burning while ensuring that the filling continues to cook perfectly.

• Cool before serving: Patience is key! Letting your pie cool for 2–3 hours allows the filling to set, making slicing easier and ensuring each piece holds its shape beautifully when served.

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

Serving your Dutch Apple Pie is just as fun as baking it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can elevate this comforting dessert into a show-stopping finale for any meal.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that complements the rich flavors of the pie.
• Caramel drizzle: Pouring warm caramel over each slice adds an indulgent sweetness that pairs beautifully with the cinnamon-spiced apples.
• Cinnamon sugar sprinkle: A light dusting of cinnamon sugar on top right before serving adds a lovely aromatic touch and extra sweetness.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The classic pairing! A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts slightly on warm pie, creating a delightful contrast in temperatures and textures.
• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing side of mixed seasonal fruits balances out the richness of the pie while adding vibrant colors to your plate.
• Cheese platter: A selection of mild cheeses like brie or gouda can provide an interesting savory counterpoint to the sweet flavors of apple pie.
• Coffee or tea: End your meal with a warm beverage that enhances the comforting notes of cinnamon and nutmeg in your pie.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful dessert. Enjoy every delicious bite!

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 and enjoy it later, making it a convenient option for busy days or special occasions.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, cover the pie with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 5 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pie on a baking sheet and reheat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• If you’d like a crispy topping, you can place it under the broiler for a minute or two, but watch closely to prevent burning!

FAQs

Have questions? You’re not alone! Here are some common ones about our delicious 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 work wonderfully together, feel free to experiment with other apple varieties like Fuji or Braeburn for unique flavors.

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

To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or use cornstarch or tapioca flour as thickening agents in the filling.

What can I serve with my Dutch Apple Pie?

This pie is delightful on its own but pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence!

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to bake this comforting Dutch Apple Pie with a Buttery Crumb Topping! Its delightful combination of sweet apples and crunchy topping makes it truly special. Whether you’re enjoying it after dinner or sharing it at gatherings, it’s sure to bring smiles all around. Enjoy every bite and happy baking!