Irresistible Apple Pie with Crumb Topping Recipe

There’s something magical about the aroma of a freshly baked apple pie with crumb topping wafting through the house. Picture this: a golden-brown crust cradling tender, spiced apples, all topped with a buttery, crumbly layer that practically begs you to dig in. It’s the kind of dessert that brings everyone running, fork in hand and drool on their chins, ready to savor each bite.

I remember the first time I made this delightful treat; it was for my grandma’s birthday. As she blew out her candles, I could see her eyes light up at the sight of my homemade apple pie with crumb topping. This pie isn’t just food; it’s a slice of nostalgia that makes any occasion feel special—whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a cozy Sunday afternoon.

Everyone at the gathering couldn’t stop raving about it, and it quickly became a family favorite.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Apples: Choose firm, tart apples like Granny Smith for a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors.

• Granulated Sugar: This will sweeten the filling; adjust based on your taste preference.

• Brown Sugar: Adds a rich flavor and moisture to the crumb topping.

• Cinnamon: Use ground cinnamon for warmth; it complements the apples beautifully.

• All-Purpose Flour: Essential for both the crust and crumb topping; ensure it’s properly measured for best results.

• Butter: Use unsalted butter for both flavor and control over saltiness in your dish.

• Lemon Juice: A splash adds brightness and prevents apples from browning too quickly.

• Nutmeg (optional): A pinch can elevate the flavor profile with its warm, aromatic notes.

• Pecans or Oats (optional): Adding these to your crumb mixture provides extra texture and nuttiness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Apples: Begin by peeling, coring, and slicing your apples into thin wedges. Aim for uniformity so they cook evenly while baking.

Mix Filling Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and lemon juice. Toss until well coated.

Make the Crust**: In another bowl, combine flour and salt before cutting in cold butter until you achieve pea-sized clumps. Add ice water gradually until dough forms.

Assemble the Pie**: Roll out your dough into a 9-inch pie pan. Pour in the apple filling evenly before proceeding to prepare your crumb topping.

Create Crumb Topping**: Mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter in a bowl until crumbs form. Sprinkle generously over your apple filling.

Bake to Perfection**: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake pie for 15 minutes before reducing temperature to 350°F (175°C) for 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.

Enjoy every bite as you savor not only this delicious apple pie with crumb topping but also the memories that come pouring in with every slice!

You Must Know

• Mastering apple pie with crumb topping elevates the classic dessert
• The sweet aroma of baking apples combined with crispy crumbs creates a heavenly experience that no one can resist
• It’s a crowd-pleaser that warms hearts and fills bellies, perfect for any occasion

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. Prepare the apple filling while the crust chills in the fridge for optimal flakiness. Assemble the pie, then sprinkle crumb topping before baking until golden brown and bubbly.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to mix different apple varieties for a more complex flavor profile. You could also add spices like nutmeg or swap out sugar for maple syrup to give it a unique twist.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes until warm and crispy again.

Chef's Helpful Tips

• Avoid soggy crust by pre-baking your bottom crust before adding filling
• Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for depth of flavor
• Always let your pie cool before slicing to maintain its shape and prevent messiness

The first time I made apple pie with crumb topping, I had friends over, and they devoured it like it was their last meal! Their compliments warmed my heart, making me realize I had found my signature dish.

FAQ

What type of apples are best for this pie?

Use a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples for balanced sweetness and tartness.

Can I make this apple pie ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the pie a day in advance; just store it tightly covered.

How do I achieve a crunchy crumb topping?

Ensure your butter is cold when mixing; this will enhance the crunchiness during baking.

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Irresistible Apple Pie with Crumb Topping

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Experience the delightful aroma of a homemade apple pie with crumb topping, featuring a golden-brown crust and tender, spiced apples beneath a buttery, crunchy layer. This nostalgic dessert is perfect for any occasion, inviting friends and family to gather around the table for a slice of warmth and comfort. Easy to make and beautifully presented, it’s sure to become a beloved family favorite.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 cups Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 tsp salt
• Optional: Pinch of nutmeg; 1/2 cup chopped pecans or oats for topping

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice until well combined.
3. In another bowl, combine flour and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles pea-sized clumps.
4. Roll out dough into a 9-inch pie pan. Pour in the apple filling evenly.
5. For the crumb topping, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter until crumbs form; sprinkle over filling.
6. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F (220°C), then reduce temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (107g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 19g
• Sodium: 105mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 39g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 20mg