There’s something irresistibly comforting about a warm slice of apple pie with crumb topping. Imagine the sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen, filling the air with hints of cinnamon and buttery goodness. This classic dessert is not just about flavors; it’s an experience that wraps you in nostalgia, evoking memories of family gatherings and autumn afternoons.
Picture this: You’re at a family reunion, and Aunt Martha has just pulled her legendary apple pie from the oven. The crust is golden, glistening with a sprinkle of sugar, and the crumb topping looks like fluffy clouds of deliciousness. With each bite, you can taste the love that went into it. This recipe is perfect for those cozy nights in or festive celebrations where your guests will be begging for seconds.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The apple pie with crumb topping is simple to prepare, making it a perfect weekend project
- Its delightful flavor profile combines sweet and tart apples with crunchy crumbs
- Visually appealing with its golden crust and white topping, it’s a showstopper on any dessert table
- Versatile enough to be enjoyed warm or cold, it suits any occasion perfectly
I remember the first time I made this apple pie. My friends gathered around as I nervously pulled it from the oven. They gave me that classic “ooh” and “ahh” as soon as they caught a whiff of cinnamon drifting through the air. The compliments came pouring in faster than I could slice!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Granny Smith Apples: These tart apples are perfect for balancing sweetness in your pie; choose firm ones for best results.
- Granulated Sugar: A must-have for sweetening the filling; adjust based on your preference.
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice; fresh ground cinnamon enhances flavor immensely.
- All-Purpose Flour: Essential for both the crust and crumb topping; sifted flour creates lighter textures.
- Unsalted Butter: For rich flavor in both the filling and crumb topping; always use cold butter for better flakiness.
- Brown Sugar: Deepens flavor in the crumb topping; light brown sugar adds moisture while dark brown offers more richness.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens up the apple filling; fresh juice works best to prevent browning.
- Salt: Enhances all flavors; just a pinch makes a significant difference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare the Apples: Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Peel, core, and slice about six Granny Smith apples into thin wedges for even cooking.
Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine sliced apples with granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt. Toss everything together until well-coated while inhaling that sweet aroma.
Create Your Crust: In another bowl, whisk together flour with salt before cutting in cold unsalted butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add ice water slowly until dough forms.
Assemble Your Pie: Roll out half of your dough on a floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Pour in your apple mixture evenly over crust, ensuring no slices escape!
Add Crumb Topping: In a separate bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, oats (if using), and melted butter until crumbly. Sprinkle generously over apple filling to create that signature crunchy topping.
Bake to Perfection: Place your pie on an oven-safe baking sheet (to catch drips) and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool slightly before serving – if you can resist!
Serve this delightful apple pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled with whipped cream on top! Enjoy every last crumb while savoring those delicious memories created around this beloved dessert.
You Must Know
- This delightful apple pie with crumb topping is a showstopper that combines sweet and tart flavors
- The aroma of baking apples and cinnamon fills your kitchen, making it feel like home
- This recipe’s crumb topping adds a delightful crunch, elevating the classic dish to new heights
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Begin by preheating your oven and preparing your crust while the apple filling simmers. This will streamline your baking process and ensure everything is perfectly cooked.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out spices or add nuts for extra texture. A dash of nutmeg or some pecans can elevate the flavor profile to suit your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Reheat slices in a microwave or oven until warm to enjoy that fresh-baked taste again.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve the best results, choose Granny Smith apples for their tartness
- Keep your butter cold when making the crumb topping for a flaky texture
- Let the pie cool completely before slicing to maintain its shape and filling consistency
Baking this apple pie with crumb topping always brings back memories of family gatherings, where everyone would fight over the last piece, leaving smiles all around.
FAQ
Can I use frozen apples for this apple pie with crumb topping?
Yes, you can use frozen apples; just thaw and drain excess liquid before use.
What can I substitute for butter in the crumb topping?
You can use coconut oil or margarine as a dairy-free alternative in the topping.
How do I know when my apple pie is done baking?
Your pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling bubbles slightly.
Irresistible Apple Pie with Crumb Topping
Indulge in the warmth of homemade apple pie with a delightful crumb topping. This classic dessert features tart Granny Smith apples enveloped in a buttery crust, complemented by a crunchy crumb layer. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights, this recipe will fill your kitchen with the nostalgic aroma of cinnamon and baked apples. Serve it warm with vanilla ice cream, and watch your loved ones savor every bite.
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8
Ingredients
- 6 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (light or dark)
- 1/2 cup rolled oats (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine flour and salt; cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water until dough forms.
- Roll out half of the dough on a floured surface and fit into a 9-inch pie dish. Pour apple filling over the crust.
- For the crumb topping, mix flour, brown sugar, oats (if using), and melted butter in a separate bowl until crumbly. Sprinkle over the apple filling.
- Bake on an oven-safe baking sheet for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and bubbly. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately 150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
