Dutch Apple Pie Recipe: Easy Homemade Pie with Crumb Topping
Dutch apple pie is a timeless dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any kitchen.
Its rich aroma fills the room with the scent of cinnamon and baked apples, instantly evoking memories of cozy family gatherings and festive celebration Unlike other apple pies, Dutch apple pie stands out with its crumbly, buttery topping that adds a delightful contrast to the soft and tender apple filling. The texture of the apples combined with the sweet, slightly crunchy topping creates a harmony of flavors that is hard to resist.
Ingredients Needed
A well-prepared Dutch apple pie starts with quality ingredients. Each element plays a role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Below is a table of essential ingredients along with their approximate calorie content per serving for better dietary awareness.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories per Serving |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 2 1/2 cups | 455 |
| Granulated sugar | 1 cup | 774 |
| Brown sugar | 1/2 cup | 418 |
| Unsalted butter | 1 cup (2 sticks) | 1,627 |
| Eggs | 2 large | 140 |
| Ground cinnamon | 2 teaspoons | 12 |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon | 3 |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | 0 |
| Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) | 6 cups sliced | 450 |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | 4 |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | 12 |
| Rolled oats | 1/2 cup | 150 |
| Brown sugar (topping) | 1/2 cup | 418 |
| Butter (topping) | 1/3 cup | 544 |
Calories are approximate and can vary depending on ingredient brands.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Creating a Dutch apple pie is an enjoyable process when approached step by step. Following these instructions ensures a perfectly balanced pie with a tender filling and a crunchy topping.
- Prepare the crust
Begin by combining 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour with 1/2 teaspoon of salt in a large mixing bowl. Cut in 1 cup of cold, unsalted butter using a pastry cutter or your fingertips until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add 1 beaten egg and 2 tablespoons of cold water, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Divide the dough into two portions, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.For more delicious ideas, don’t miss Dutch baby pancake which pairs perfectly with this recipe. - Prepare the filling
Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin, uniform pieces. Toss the apples with 1/4 cup of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Allow the mixture to sit while preparing the pie shell. - Assemble the pie
Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Roll out one portion of the chilled dough into a circle and carefully place it into a greased 9-inch pie pan. Press it gently against the sides and bottom, trimming any excess dough. Layer the apple mixture evenly over the crust. - Prepare the topping
In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup of rolled oats, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1/3 cup of melted butter, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix until crumbly. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the apple filling. - Bake the pie
Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any spills and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. If the topping browns too quickly, cover the pie loosely with foil. Allow the pie to cool at least 30 minutes before slicing to set the filling.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Dutch apple pie can be easily customized to suit personal taste preferences. Choosing different apple varieties affects the sweetness and texture. Granny Smith apples offer a tart contrast to the sweet topping, while Honeycrisp or Fuji apples provide a naturally sweeter flavor. Experimenting with spices such as cardamom or allspice adds a unique warmth. The topping can also be modified by adding chopped nuts for extra crunch or a drizzle of caramel for a richer experience. For a lighter version, reduce sugar slightly or replace butter with a healthier alternative. Pie dough can be prepared in advance and frozen for convenience. Small adjustments to ingredient ratios and baking time allow each pie to become uniquely tailored to the baker’s liking.
Nutritional Information
A typical slice of Dutch apple pie provides a balance of carbohydrates, fat, and protein, making it an indulgent treat best enjoyed in moderation. Each slice, assuming 8 servings per pie, contains approximately 420 calories, 22 grams of fat, 58 grams of carbohydrates, 3 grams of protein, and 5 grams of dietary fiber. The combination of oats and apples contributes natural fiber and antioxidants, while the butter and sugar provide richness and flavor. Pairing the pie with fresh fruit or a small scoop of ice cream enhances enjoyment without overwhelming the nutritional content. Adjusting portion sizes and ingredient substitutions can help maintain a balance between indulgence and health.
Serving Suggestions
Dutch apple pie shines when served warm. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream enhances the creamy texture and complements the sweet-tart apple filling. Serving alongside a cup of coffee or tea creates a comforting dessert experience. For brunch or special gatherings, cutting the pie into smaller portions and serving with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce adds a sophisticated touch. Even at room temperature, the pie maintains its flavor and texture, making it suitable for potlucks and picnics. For extra flair, consider lightly dusting the top with powdered sugar or adding a cinnamon stick for decoration.
Dutch Apple Pie Recipe: Easy Homemade Pie with Crumb Topping
Course: Blog8
servings25
minutes50
minutes420
kcalIngredients
For the Pie Crust
1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
For the Apple Filling
6 cups apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
¾ cup granulated sugar
2 tbsp all-purpose flour
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
1 tbsp lemon juice
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish and crimp the edges. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla until evenly coated.
- Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust.
- In another bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a fork or fingers until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apples.
- Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Recipe Video
Notes
- If the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover the pie with foil during the last 15 minutes of baking.
For extra flavor, add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumb topping.
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a classic finish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of apples work best for Dutch apple pie?
Firm apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn are ideal because they hold their shape during baking while providing a balanced flavor.
Can I make Dutch apple pie ahead of time?
Yes, the pie can be baked and stored at room temperature for one day or refrigerated for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.
How can I make the topping extra crunchy?
Adding chopped nuts or an extra tablespoon of butter to the crumble mixture enhances crunchiness.
Can I freeze Dutch apple pie?
Yes, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Is it possible to make a gluten-free Dutch apple pie?
Absolutely. Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free certified.
Conclusion
Dutch apple pie remains a classic dessert that celebrates both tradition and creativity. The combination of tender apple filling and buttery crumb topping delivers a sensory experience that is hard to match. Baking the pie at home allows for a personal touch in flavor and texture, transforming simple ingredients into a memorable treat.
