Apple pie with crumb topping classic homemade dessert recipe

Warm kitchens often carry memories, and apple pie with crumb topping sits at the heart of many of them.

The scent of baked apples mixed with butter and cinnamon has a way of slowing time and drawing people together. Home bakers across generations have returned to this dessert because it feels comforting yet impressive, simple yet layered with flavor. Each slice offers tender fruit, gentle spice, and a golden crumb that melts into the filling below.

Ingredients Needed

Great pie begins with thoughtful ingredients. Quality apples and fresh spices make a noticeable difference. Measurements matter, yet flexibility allows personal taste to shine.

Ingredient	Quantity	Approximate Calories
All purpose flour	2 cups	910
Unsalted butter	1 cup	1628
Granulated sugar	3 quarters cup	580
Brown sugar	3 quarters cup	620
Apples peeled and sliced	6 medium	570
Ground cinnamon	2 teaspoons	12
Ground nutmeg	1 quarter teaspoon	3
Lemon juice	1 tablespoon	4
Salt	1 teaspoon	0
Cold water	4 tablespoons	0

Calorie counts remain estimates and vary by brand and portion size. Apples such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best because they hold shape and balance sweetness.

Step by Step Cooking Instructions

Begin by preparing the crust. Combine flour and salt in a large bowl. Add cold butter cut into small cubes. Use fingertips or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add cold water while mixing gently. The dough should hold together without feeling wet. Form into a disk, wrap, and chill for at least thirty minutes. Chilling helps prevent shrinking during baking.

Preheat the oven to three hundred seventy five degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a nine inch pie dish. Roll the chilled dough on a floured surface until it fits the dish with a slight overhang. Press gently into the dish and trim edges. Crimp if desired. Set aside.

Prepare the apple filling next. Place sliced apples into a large bowl. Add granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Toss until apples appear evenly coated. Allow the mixture to rest for ten minutes. Resting helps release natural juices and improves texture.

Spoon the apple mixture into the prepared crust. Spread evenly and gently press down to remove air pockets. Avoid packing too tightly. Apples will soften and settle as they bake.

Now focus on the crumb topping. In a clean bowl, mix flour and brown sugar. Add cold butter pieces. Use fingers to rub butter into the dry mixture until large crumbs form. Texture should feel sandy with visible chunks. Larger crumbs create a more rustic look and crunch.

https://wawamenu.org/apple-pie-recipe-homemade/Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the apples. Cover the filling completely but do not press down. Loose crumbs bake into a light crisp layer.For more insights on this topic and -Apple pie recipe homemade], make sure to check out our other recipe.

Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch drips. Bake in the center of the oven for forty five to fifty minutes. The topping should turn golden brown and the filling should bubble gently at the edges. If browning too quickly, loosely cover with foil.

Remove the pie and let it cool for at least one hour. Cooling allows the filling to set and makes slicing easier. Cutting too early may cause juices to run.

Tips for Customizing the Recipe

Personal touches turn a good pie into a memorable one. Apple pie with crumb topping welcomes creativity and adaptation.

Mix apple varieties for deeper flavor. Combine tart and sweet apples to balance the filling. Granny Smith paired with Fuji creates a pleasing contrast.

Add spices to suit your taste. Cloves, allspice, or cardamom bring warmth and complexity. Use small amounts to avoid overpowering the apples.

Enhance texture by adding chopped nuts to the crumb topping. Walnuts or pecans provide crunch and richness. Toast them lightly before mixing for extra depth.

Reduce sugar if apples are naturally sweet. Taste the filling before baking and adjust sweetness gradually. Natural apple flavor should remain front and center.

Make it dairy free by using plant based butter. Choose a high quality option with good fat content to maintain crumb texture.

Gluten free versions work well with a reliable flour blend. Ensure the blend includes a binder such as xanthan gum for structure.

Serve warm or chilled depending on preference. Both offer unique textures and flavors.

Nutritional Information

Apple pie with crumb topping offers more than comfort. Apples provide fiber, vitamin C, and natural antioxidants. The crust and topping add fats and carbohydrates that deliver energy and satiety.

A typical slice contains approximately three hundred fifty to four hundred calories depending on portion size and ingredients. Fat content comes mainly from butter, contributing richness and flavor. Sugar content varies based on apple sweetness and added sugar.

Moderation remains key. Enjoying a slice alongside a balanced meal fits easily into most diets. Those seeking lighter options can reduce topping quantity or use less sugar without sacrificing enjoyment.

Serving Suggestions

Presentation enhances the experience. Serve apple pie with crumb topping slightly warm for the best aroma and texture. Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream that melts into the crumb and filling.

Whipped cream offers a lighter option. A dollop adds creaminess without overpowering the pie. Cinnamon sprinkled on top adds visual appeal.

For gatherings, cut clean slices using a sharp knife wiped between cuts. Serve on warm plates for an inviting touch.

Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat gently in the oven to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving for long periods as it softens the crumb topping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which apples work best for apple pie with crumb topping
Firm apples that hold shape during baking work best. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Braeburn, and Fuji remain popular choices. Mixing varieties creates balanced flavor.

Can the pie be made ahead of time
Yes. Bake the pie one day ahead and store covered at room temperature. Reheat gently before serving to refresh the topping.

How do I keep the crumb topping crisp
Use cold butter and avoid pressing the topping down. Baking until golden brown and allowing the pie to cool fully also helps maintain crispness.

Can I freeze apple pie with crumb topping
Yes. Freeze the baked pie once completely cooled. Wrap tightly. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven.

Why is my filling runny
Runny filling often results from slicing before cooling or using very juicy apples. Allow full cooling time and consider adding a tablespoon of flour to the filling if apples release excess juice.

Conclusion

Apple pie with crumb topping brings together comfort, tradition, and creativity in one timeless dessert. Each layer plays a role, from tender apples to buttery crumbs that crackle with each bite. Baking this pie offers more than food. It creates moments, memories, and shared smiles around the table.