This Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe delivers a delightful balance of flavors and textures. With a flaky crust, tender apple filling, and a crumbly topping, it’s perfect for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings. The combination of spices enhances the apple taste, making it a standout dessert that everyone will love!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredible Flavor: The mix of spices and fresh apples creates an unforgettable taste experience.
- Textural Delight: Enjoy the contrast between the buttery crust, soft apples, and crispy crumble topping.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or just a special treat at home.
- Simple Preparation: With clear instructions, even novice bakers can create this delicious pie.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with different types of apples or add more spices to suit your taste.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools for a smooth experience. Having the right equipment will make all the difference.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9-inch pie dish
- High-sided skillet
- Microplane grater
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Pie dish: Ensures even baking and helps shape the crust perfectly.
- High-sided skillet: Allows enough room for cooking the apple filling without spilling.
- Microplane grater: Makes zesting lemons easy and efficient for that fresh flavor.
Ingredients
For this delicious Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe, you will need:
- 1 homemade single pie crust (1 sheet of pie dough)
- 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
- juice from half a lemon (2 tablespoons, no more)
- 5 pounds apples (5 pounds before peeling and coring)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 & 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 3/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon cardamom (optional)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 & 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (use a little less if using table salt)
- 3/4 cup butter (melted – 1 and 1/2 sticks)
How to Make Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe
Step 1: Choose Your Apples
Select about 11 large apples or 5 pounds total. For the best flavor combination, use a mix like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Golden Delicious.
Step 2: Make the Filling
Use a microplane grater to zest lemon peel into a high-sided skillet.
Add juice from half the lemon to prevent browning.
Peel and slice apples into thin pieces. Stir them in with lemon juice as you go.
Step 3: Cook the Apples
Set the skillet over medium heat.
Combine brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom with sliced apples in the pan.
Stir gently until well-mixed. Cover with a lid but stir every few minutes for about 20 minutes until they are fork-tender.
Step 4: Cool the Filling
Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Transfer to a half sheet pan to cool completely in the fridge or freezer.
Step 5: Prepare Your Pie Crust
Roll out your pie dough into a greased pie dish. Fold edges underneath and crimp them. Chill in the fridge or freezer for about 30 minutes.
Step 6: Preheat Oven
Place a baking sheet or pizza stone in the center rack of your oven while preheating to425°F for at least 20–30 minutes.
Step 7: Make Sugar Crumble
In medium bowl combine flour, white sugar, brown sugar, and salt. Whisk together until blended.
Step 8: Add Butter
Melt butter in another bowl then pour it over dry ingredients. Mix gently until you have a sandy mixture with clumps. Chill this crumble mixture while assembling.
Step 9: Assemble Pie
Once cooled filling is ready:
Scrape apple mixture into prepared pie crust.
Top with about one to two cups of crumble mixture evenly covering apples without piling too much on top.
Step 10: Bake Pie
Place pie on hot baking sheet in oven at425°F for first bake phase for about15 minutes until edges turn light brown.
Step 11: Adjust Temperature
Lower oven temperature to350°F without removing pie from oven. Bake for an additional10 minutes.
Step12: Add Remaining Crumble
After initial baking time:
Remove pie briefly; sprinkle remaining crumble on top.
Cover edges loosely with foil to prevent burning before returning to oven.
Step13: Final Bake
Bake at350°F for another25–35 minutes until crust is browned and crumble is golden brown.
Step14: Cool Before Serving
Let pie cool on wire rack for about4 hours before slicing so juices settle properly—this ensures perfect texture!
Enjoy this scrumptious Dutch Apple Crumble Pie warm or chilled!
How to Serve Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe
Serving your Dutch Apple Crumble Pie can elevate the experience, making it even more delightful. Here are some suggestions to enhance your pie presentation and enjoyment.
A La Mode
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a creamy contrast to the warm pie.
- Try caramel or butterscotch sauce drizzled over for an indulgent touch.
Whipped Cream
- Top with freshly whipped cream for a light and airy addition.
- Consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor.
Fresh Fruit
- Pair with slices of fresh apples or berries for a refreshing balance.
- A side of citrus fruits like oranges can add a zesty note.
Coffee or Tea
- Serve alongside a cup of coffee for a cozy dessert experience.
- Herbal teas can provide a soothing complement to the sweetness of the pie.
Cheese Plate
- Include slices of sharp cheddar cheese to contrast the sweetness of the pie.
- A cheese board can make for an elegant serving option.
Ice Cream Sundae Style
- Create a sundae by layering pieces of pie, ice cream, and toppings in a glass.
- Add nuts or sprinkles for additional texture and flavor.
How to Perfect Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe
To ensure your Dutch Apple Crumble Pie turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind.
- Use Fresh Apples: For the best flavor, select crisp, fresh apples. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices.
- Chill Your Dough: Make sure your pie crust is well-chilled before baking. This helps achieve flakiness.
- Don’t Overfill: When adding crumble topping, make sure to spread it evenly without piling too high; this allows the filling to bubble through.
- Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your pie as it bakes. The edges should be golden brown but not burnt.
- Let It Cool: Allowing the pie to cool completely before slicing will give you neat slices and prevent sogginess.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices like cinnamon or nutmeg based on your taste preferences for a unique flavor profile.
Best Side Dishes for Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Dutch Apple Crumble Pie can enhance its flavors and create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Cheddar Biscuits: Flaky biscuits with sharp cheddar provide a savory counterpoint to sweet pie.
- Cinnamon Roll Pancakes: Light and fluffy pancakes drizzled with cinnamon frosting offer a sweet breakfast twist.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy sprouts seasoned with balsamic vinegar create an earthy contrast to the dessert’s sweetness.
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette dressing can cleanse the palate between bites of rich pie.
- Stuffed Acorn Squash: Sweet acorn squash filled with grains and nuts brings seasonal flavors that complement apple pie beautifully.
- Caramelized Carrots: Sweet carrots cooked until caramelized add color and natural sweetness that pairs well with dessert.
- Pumpkin Soup: A warm bowl of pumpkin soup can serve as a hearty starter before enjoying dessert.
- Sweet Potato Mash: Creamy sweet potatoes provide comforting flavors that connect well with apple desserts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Dutch Apple Crumble Pie, avoiding common mistakes can elevate your dessert game.
- Using the wrong apples: Always opt for a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for the best flavor.
- Not chilling the crust: A chilled pie crust ensures flakiness. Don’t skip refrigerating it before baking!
- Overcooking the apple filling: Keep an eye on the apple filling while cooking; undercooked apples will maintain their shape during baking.
- Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the pie to cool is crucial for achieving the perfect texture. Cutting too soon leads to a soggy filling.
- Ignoring measurements: Precision matters in baking! Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy in ingredients.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store the pie covered with plastic wrap or foil.
- It stays fresh for up to 2 days in the fridge.
Freezing Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe
- Wrap individual slices or whole pies tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Check every 30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re curious about this delicious Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe, you’re not alone. Here are some common questions:
How do I make my Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe gluten-free?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in both the crust and crumble topping.
What type of apples work best for this recipe?
Using a combination of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Golden Delicious yields the best flavor.
Can I prepare Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can make it a day in advance. Just store it properly and reheat before serving.
What should I serve with my Dutch Apple Crumble Pie?
This pie pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for added indulgence.
How long does Dutch Apple Crumble Pie last at room temperature?
It’s best enjoyed within two days if left at room temperature but should be refrigerated afterward.
Final Thoughts
This Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe offers an incredible balance of flavors with its buttery crust and sweet filling. Its versatility means you can tweak the spices or add nuts as desired. I encourage you to try this delightful dessert; it’s sure to impress family and friends!
Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe
Indulge in our delectable Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe, a perfect harmony of flavors and textures that is sure to impress. This pie features a flaky, buttery crust filled with tender spiced apples and topped with a crunchy crumb topping. Ideal for any occasion, from cozy family dinners to festive gatherings, it’s a comforting dessert that brings warmth to your table. The blend of spices elevates the natural sweetness of the apples, making it an irresistible treat for everyone. Whether served warm with ice cream or chilled as a refreshing end to your meal, this pie is versatile and easily customizable to suit your taste.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 people 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 homemade single pie crust
- 5 pounds mixed apples (like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 & 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup melted butter
- Spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and place a baking sheet on the middle rack.
- Prepare the apple filling by peeling and slicing the apples; mix them with lemon juice, sugars, flour, and spices in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook until apples are fork-tender (about 20 minutes), then cool completely.
- Roll out your chilled pie crust into a greased pie dish and fill it with the cooled apple mixture.
- For the crumble topping, combine flour, sugars, and salt in one bowl; melt butter separately and mix until crumbly.
- Spread crumble over the apples, then bake at 425°F for 15 minutes before lowering the temperature to 350°F (175°C) for an additional 25–35 minutes until golden brown.
- Allow cooling for at least 4 hours before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (125g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
