Name: Apple Pie With Crumb Topping
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pie crust 19-inch pie crust (See notes); 5 cups sliced apples (approximately 6-7 apples); 1/2 cup sugar; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 tablespoon cinnamon; 1/2 cup sugar; 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/3 cup butter, melted

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There’s something truly magical about the aroma of a freshly baked Apple Pie With Crumb Topping wafting through the house. I recall the first time I made this recipe; it was a chilly autumn day, the perfect setting for indulging in comfort food. I gathered around the kitchen with my family, and as I peeled the apples, we shared stories and laughter. The excitement in the air was palpable as we anticipated diving into that warm pie topped with a delightful crumb mixture. It became a cherished tradition, and every year, we look forward to making this classic dessert together. It’s not just about the pie—it’s about the memories we create while preparing it. The combination of tart and sweet apples, the crunch of the crumb topping, and that hint of cinnamon brings us all together. This pie has become our go-to recipe for family gatherings and holiday feasts, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
45 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
40 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
250 kcal

Protein:
3 g

Diet:
Paleo, Vegan, Gluten-Free

Fat:
11 g

Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Oven, Baking Sheet, Mixing Bowl

Why Try This Apple Pie With Crumb Topping

Why This Recipe Stands Out

When it comes to baking, there are countless reasons why Apple Pie With Crumb Topping is a favorite in my home. Here are a few that make it truly special:

1. Comfort in Every Bite
This pie embodies comfort food at its finest. The combination of tender, juicy apples and a sweet, buttery crumb topping provides a warm embrace after every slice. It’s the kind of dessert that makes you feel at home, no matter where you are.
2. Perfect Balance of Flavors
The tartness of the apples harmonizes beautifully with the sweetness of the sugar and the warmth of cinnamon. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, ensuring a delightful symphony of flavors that dance on your palate with every bite.
3. Versatile for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a holiday feast or a casual family dinner, this pie fits right in. Its classic appeal makes it a star at Thanksgiving and a comforting treat on chilly nights. You can easily customize it, too, to suit any gathering.
4. Easy to Prepare
Making Apple Pie With Crumb Topping is simpler than you might think! With just a few steps, you can whip up a pie that looks and tastes like it came from a bakery. The process is straightforward, making it a great choice even for novice bakers.
5. Family Bonding Experience
There’s nothing quite like baking together. This recipe is perfect for involving kids or other family members in the kitchen. From peeling apples to sprinkling the crumb topping, it’s a wonderful way to create lasting memories as you enjoy the process of making something delicious.

Recipe Ingredients for Apple Pie With Crumb Topping

The ingredients for this Apple Pie With Crumb Topping are simple yet essential in crafting the perfect pie. Each component plays a vital role in building flavor and texture. The star of the show, of course, is the apples, which provide sweetness and moisture. The crumb topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender filling. With just a handful of ingredients, you’ll create a delicious dessert that will impress anyone!

19-inch pie crust: This serves as the foundation for your pie, holding all the delicious fillings together. You can use a store-bought crust for convenience or make your own for a personal touch.
5 cups sliced apples: Approximately 6-7 apples are needed. Choose a mix of tart and sweet varieties for a balanced flavor profile, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
1/2 cup sugar: This sweetens the apple filling and enhances the overall flavor of the pie.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Used as a thickener for the apple filling, ensuring it’s not too runny.
1 tablespoon cinnamon: This spice adds warmth and depth to the pie, complementing the apples beautifully.
1/2 cup sugar: Also used in the crumb topping, providing sweetness and a slight crunch when baked.
3/4 cup all-purpose flour: This is the main ingredient in the crumb topping, helping to create that delightful texture.
3/4 cup walnuts, chopped: Adds a nutty flavor and extra crunch to the topping. You can also use pecans if preferred.
1/3 cup butter, melted: The key fat for the crumb topping, ensuring it’s rich and flavorful.

Preparation Steps for Apple Pie With Crumb Topping

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this scrumptious Apple Pie With Crumb Topping. The preparation is straightforward and fun—perfect for getting everyone involved!

Prepare your pie crust or use a store-bought pie crust. If making from scratch, roll out your dough to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Press it gently into the pan, ensuring there are no air bubbles.
Preheat the oven to 200C/400F. This important step ensures the pie cooks evenly and the crust gets that lovely golden brown color.
In a large mixing bowl, prepare the apple pie filling. Add the sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Mix well until the apples are coated. You want to make sure every slice is evenly sweetened.
In a separate bowl, prepare your crumb topping. Combine the sugar, flour, and chopped walnuts. Mix well, then pour in the melted butter. Stir until you achieve a crumbly texture. This is what will give your pie that delightful crunch!
Transfer the apple pie filling to the prepared pie crust. Spread it evenly before covering the top with the crumb mixture. Make sure to distribute the topping well, so each piece of pie has a generous amount.
Bake the pie for 40-45 minutes, or until the crumb topping has turned a lovely golden brown. You might want to keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to prevent burning.
Remove from the oven and let sit for 10 minutes before serving. This resting time allows the filling to set a bit, making it easier to slice.

Things Worth Knowing

Keep Your Apples Fresh: It’s best to slice your apples just before mixing them with the other ingredients to prevent browning.
Use a Mix of Apples: For a more complex flavor, combine different varieties of apples. This will enhance the overall taste of your pie.
Test for Doneness: To ensure the pie is ready, check that the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
Let It Cool: Allowing the pie to cool slightly before serving helps set the filling, making it easier to cut neat slices.

Ways to Customize

There are plenty of ways to make this Apple Pie With Crumb Topping your own. Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients!

Try Different Fruits: You can add other fruits like pears or berries for a unique twist on the classic apple pie.
Add Spices: Enhance the flavor by adding spices like nutmeg or ginger to the filling for a spicier kick.
Switch Up the Topping: Instead of walnuts, try using almonds or pecans in your crumb topping for an extra nutty flavor.
Make It Caramel Apple: Drizzle some caramel sauce over the apples before adding the topping for a rich, decadent version.
Experiment with the Crust: Use a graham cracker crust or even a chocolate cookie crust for a fun twist.
Serve with Ice Cream: Pairing your pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream creates a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures.
Make Mini Pies: Instead of one large pie, consider making individual mini apple pies. They’re perfect for parties and easy to serve!

Serving Options for Apple Pie With Crumb Topping

When it comes to serving Apple Pie With Crumb Topping, there are so many delightful options to elevate your dessert experience. Here are some ideas to consider:

Warm with Ice Cream: Serve your pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The melting ice cream against the warm pie is irresistible!
Drizzle with Caramel: A drizzle of caramel sauce over the top adds a rich sweetness and makes it look even more enticing.
With Fresh Whipped Cream: Lighten the dessert by serving it with freshly whipped cream. It adds a lovely creamy element that complements the pie.
On Special Occasions: This pie is perfect for holidays like Thanksgiving or family gatherings. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
With Coffee or Tea: Pair your pie with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. The flavors work beautifully together.
As a Breakfast Treat: Leftover slices can be enjoyed for breakfast with a cup of coffee. It’s a sweet way to start the day!

FAQ

The best apples for Apple Pie With Crumb Topping are a mix of tart and sweet varieties. Granny Smith apples give a nice tartness, while Honeycrisp adds a sweet crunch. Combining these flavors enhances the overall taste of your pie. You can also try other varieties like Fuji or Braeburn for a different profile. Just make sure to avoid apples that become mushy when cooked, as they won’t hold their shape during baking.

Yes, you can prepare the apple filling ahead of time! Slice the apples and mix them with sugar, cinnamon, and flour as per the recipe, then store it in the refrigerator for up to a day. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before assembling your pie to ensure even baking. This can save you time during busy days when you want to whip up a delicious dessert quickly.

To prevent a soggy crust in your Apple Pie With Crumb Topping, make sure to pre-bake the crust for about 10 minutes before adding the filling. This helps create a barrier and makes the crust more resilient. Additionally, ensure your apples are drained of excess moisture before mixing them with other ingredients. Another option is to sprinkle a thin layer of flour on the crust before adding the filling, which can absorb some moisture during baking.

Absolutely! Freezing your Apple Pie With Crumb Topping is a great way to save it for later. To freeze, allow the pie to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and bake it at 200C/400F for about 20-30 minutes or until heated through. This way, you can enjoy a homemade pie any time you crave it!

Conclusion

This Apple Pie With Crumb Topping is a wonderful blend of flavors and memories, making it a must-try for any occasion. With each slice, you’ll experience the comfort of home and the joy of baking. I encourage you to gather your loved ones and make this pie together. It’s an experience worth sharing and a treat that will surely delight everyone at the table.