Apple Crumble Pie is a classic, comforting dessert that combines the delicious flavors of sweet, tart apples with a buttery, crisp crumble topping. This homemade pie is the ultimate comfort food that you can enjoy any time of year, whether it’s the height of autumn or the warmth of summer. It’s perfect for gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy evening at home. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create this irresistible dessert from scratch. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice, this Apple Crumble Pie recipe is easy to follow, and the result will be a mouthwatering treat.
What is Apple Crumble Pie?
Apple Crumble Pie is a dessert that consists of a flaky pie crust filled with spiced apples and topped with a crunchy, sweet crumble topping. It’s a combination of two beloved dessert styles: apple pie and crumble. The traditional apple pie filling is given a twist by replacing the typical pie top with a sweet, buttery crumble. The result is a unique yet delicious treat that’s both sweet and slightly tart, with a perfect balance of textures.
Unlike a typical apple pie with a top crust, Apple Crumble Pie uses a crumble topping made from butter, flour, sugar, and sometimes nuts. This not only adds a fantastic crunch but also infuses the pie with an irresistible buttery flavor. Apple Crumble Pie is typically served warm, often accompanied by vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
The Origin of Apple Crumble Pie
While the exact origin of Apple Crumble Pie is difficult to pinpoint, it’s believed to have roots in European desserts, particularly British and Dutch cuisines. The idea of combining fruit and a sweet topping like crumble has been around for centuries. However, the modern version of the crumble pie became popular in the United States, where apple pies are a staple of American culture.
The concept of the crumble topping is said to have originated in Britain during World War II when rationing made it difficult to make traditional pies with a full crust. Instead, home bakers substituted a crumble topping made from butter, sugar, and flour. The result was a lighter, easier-to-make dessert that became a household favorite. Over time, this crumble topping was paired with various fruits, including apples, to create the dessert we now know and love as Apple Crumble Pie.
Ingredients for Apple Crumble Pie
For the pie crust:
- 1 store-bought pie crust (or homemade, if preferred)
For the apple filling:
- 6-7 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or your favorite baking apples)
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Lastly for the crumble topping:
- 3/4 cup (95g) all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup (65g) brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: 1/3 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the pie bakes evenly and the crust turns out perfectly crisp.
2. Prepare the Pie Crust
Roll out your pie crust on a lightly floured surface. Place the rolled-out dough into a 9-inch pie dish. Press it gently into the dish, making sure it fits snugly along the edges. Trim any excess dough, and then crimp the edges as desired. This adds a beautiful touch to the final presentation. Once done, place the pie crust in the fridge while you prepare the filling and topping.
3. Make the Apple Filling
Peel, core, and slice the apples thinly. The slices should be about 1/4 inch thick to ensure even cooking. In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg (if using). Add lemon juice and vanilla extract and mix everything well. The sugar will help release the juices from the apples, and the flour will help thicken the mixture. Let the apples sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the juices to develop.
4. Prepare the Crumble Topping
In a medium bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the dry ingredients. Continue until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. For an added crunch, stir in some chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts. The nuts are optional but can add a delightful texture and flavor to the topping.
5. Assemble the Pie
Take the prepared pie crust from the fridge and pour the apple filling into it. Spread the filling evenly, ensuring that the apples are well-distributed. Next, generously sprinkle the crumble topping over the apple filling. Don’t be afraid to use a lot of the topping—it’s the best part!
6. Bake the Pie
Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake it in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes. The pie is ready when the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown and crisp. If the edges of the pie crust brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie shield halfway through the baking process to prevent burning.
7. Cool and Serve
Once the pie is done baking, remove it from the oven and let it cool for at least 30 minutes. This allows the filling to set, making it easier to slice. Serve the pie warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
Variations of Apple Crumble Pie
While the traditional Apple Crumble Pie recipe is a timeless favorite, there are many ways to personalize it. Here are a few variations to consider:
1. Caramel Apple Crumble Pie
For an added layer of flavor, drizzle the apple filling with caramel sauce before adding the crumble topping. The caramel will melt into the apples during baking, creating a rich, gooey texture that pairs beautifully with the crumble topping.
2. Spiced Apple Crumble Pie
Boost the spiciness by adding a pinch of ground cloves, allspice, or ginger to the apple filling. These spices will complement the cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a more complex flavor profile.
3. Gluten-Free Apple Crumble Pie
For a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour in both the crust and crumble topping for a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that the pie crust you’re using is also gluten-free, or opt for a homemade gluten-free crust.
4. Apple Cranberry Crumble Pie
Add a tart twist to your pie by mixing in some fresh or frozen cranberries with the apple filling. The combination of sweet apples and tart cranberries creates a refreshing contrast in flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen apples for the filling?
Yes, you can use frozen apples in this recipe. However, make sure to thaw and drain the apples before using them, as excess moisture can affect the texture of the filling and crust.
2. How can I prevent the crust from becoming soggy?
To prevent a soggy crust, make sure to pre-bake the crust for about 5-10 minutes before adding the apple filling. This helps create a barrier that prevents the juices from soaking into the crust.
3. Can I make the pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the pie ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake it. You can also bake it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the oven for about 15-20 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to warm it through.
4. Can I use other fruits in this recipe?
Yes! While apples are the traditional choice, you can use other fruits like pears, peaches, or a mix of berries. Just be sure to adjust the sugar and seasoning according to the sweetness and tartness of the fruit.
Conclusion
Apple Crumble Pie is a delightful dessert that combines the best of both worlds—classic apple pie and a crumbly, buttery topping. With its perfectly spiced apple filling, flaky crust, and crunchy crumble topping, this pie is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just looking to indulge in a comforting dessert, Apple Crumble Pie delivers on both flavor and texture. Its versatility allows for endless variations, making it easy to customize to your taste. Enjoy this classic treat with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate dessert experience.
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Apple Crumble Pie Recipe: A Classic Comforting Dessert for Every Occasion
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Apple Crumble Pie is a dessert that consists of a flaky pie crust filled with spiced apples and topped with a crunchy, sweet crumble topping. It’s a combination of two beloved dessert styles: apple pie and crumble. The traditional apple pie filling is given a twist by replacing the typical pie top with a sweet, buttery crumble. The result is a unique yet delicious treat that’s both sweet and slightly tart, with a perfect balance of textures.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 store-bought pie crust (or homemade crust, if preferred)
For the Apple Filling:
- 6–7 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or your favorite baking apples)
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (50g) brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Crumble Topping:
- 3/4 cup (95g) all-purpose flour
- 1/3 cup (65g) granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup (65g) brown sugar
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: 1/3 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Pie Crust:
- Roll out the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish.
- Trim and crimp the edges as desired.
- Place the pie crust in the fridge while preparing the filling and topping.
3. Make the Apple Filling:
- Peel, core, and slice the apples thinly.
- In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Mix well to coat evenly.
- Let the apples sit for 5-10 minutes to release their juices.
4. Prepare the Crumble Topping:
- In a medium bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and cold cubed butter.
- Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- If desired, stir in chopped nuts for added texture.
5. Assemble the Pie:
- Pour the apple filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the apples.
6. Bake:
- Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
- If the crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil or a pie shield halfway through baking.
7. Cool and Serve:
- Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
- Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Notes
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate comfort dessert. A drizzle of caramel sauce takes it to the next level!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Apple Crumble Pie Recipe