Irresistible Apple Crumb Pie Recipe Easy to Make at Home

The aroma of apples and cinnamon baking together is pure magic, isn’t it? I remember the first time I made this apple crumb pie—it was a chilly autumn evening, and I wanted something warm and comforting to share with my family. One bite of the buttery, crumbly topping paired with the sweet, spiced apples had everyone hooked. This pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of cozy flavors that work for any occasion, whether it’s a holiday table or a simple weeknight treat.

If you’ve ever felt intimidated by pie-making, don’t worry. This recipe is straightforward, with a crumb topping that’s even easier than lattice work. You’ll love how effortlessly everything comes together, and honestly, the end result looks like you spent hours on it. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, this apple crumb pie will earn you rave reviews. So, grab your favorite apples, preheat the oven, and let’s get baking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: No need for rolling out a top crust—this crumb topping comes together in minutes.
• Simple Ingredients: Most items are pantry staples, and you can find the rest at any grocery store.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving, a potluck, or just a quiet Sunday afternoon, this pie fits the bill.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Sweet, buttery, and packed with warm spices, it’s a guaranteed hit with kids and adults alike.
• Unbeatable Texture: The crumbly topping contrasts beautifully with the soft, juicy apples.

What sets this recipe apart is the perfect balance between sweetness and spice, with a topping that’s crisp but not too crumbly. Plus, it’s such a forgiving recipe—you can easily swap ingredients or adjust flavors to suit your taste. This pie isn’t just a dessert; it’s a hug in pie form, ready to comfort you after a long day or impress your guests with minimal effort.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that deliver big on flavor. You likely have most of them on hand already, and there’s room for substitutions if needed.

For the Filling:

• 6-7 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced thin (I recommend Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for their tart-sweet balance)
• 2/3 cup (135g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup (30g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional, for a warm spice kick)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (prevents browning and adds brightness)

For the Crumb Topping:

• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 store-bought or homemade pie crust (9-inch)

Feel free to swap the sugars for coconut sugar or use gluten-free flour if needed. If you love a sweeter pie, add an extra tablespoon of sugar to the filling. The crumb topping is the star here, so don’t skimp on the butter—it’s what makes it irresistible!

Equipment Needed

• 9-inch pie dish
• Mixing bowls
• Pastry cutter or fork (for the crumb topping)
• Peeler and corer for the apples
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Baking sheet (to catch drips)

If you don’t have a pastry cutter, a fork or your fingers will work just fine to create the crumb topping. For peeling apples, a sharp paring knife is a great alternative to a peeler. If you’re using a homemade pie crust, a rolling pin is essential—but store-bought crust works just as well in a pinch!

Preparation Method

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place a rack in the center.
2. Prepare the apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples thinly. Place them in a large mixing bowl and toss with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until evenly coated.
3. Roll out the crust: If using homemade pie dough, roll it out to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Gently press it into the dish and trim any excess around the edges.
4. Fill the pie: Pour the apple mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly.
5. Make the crumb topping: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or fork to blend until you have coarse crumbs.
6. Add the topping: Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the apple filling, ensuring all the apples are covered.
7. Bake: Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbling.
8. Cool: Allow the pie to cool for at least 1 hour before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes it easier to serve.

If your topping looks like it’s browning too quickly, cover the pie loosely with aluminum foil for the last 15 minutes of baking. You’ll know the apples are done when you can easily pierce them with a fork.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here are some tried-and-true tips to ensure your apple crumb pie turns out perfect every time:

• Choose the right apples: The best pies combine sweet and tart apples. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn are great options. Avoid apples that are too soft, as they can turn mushy.
• Chill your butter: Cold butter is key for achieving that crumbly topping. If your butter starts to soften while mixing, pop the bowl into the fridge for a few minutes.
• Don’t overmix: When making the crumb topping, stop mixing as soon as you see pea-sized clumps. Overmixing can make the topping dense instead of crumbly.
• Protect your crust: To avoid a burnt crust, use a pie shield or aluminum foil to cover the edges halfway through baking.
• Let the pie cool: It’s tempting to dig in right away, but letting the pie cool ensures the filling sets properly and doesn’t run everywhere.

I’ve had my fair share of soggy-bottom pies, and trust me—following these tips will make a world of difference. You’ll get a perfectly crisp crust and dreamy topping every single time!

Variations & Adaptations

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to make it your own. Here are some fun ideas:

• Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for both the crust and the topping.
• Seasonal Twist: Add fresh cranberries or sliced pears to the apple filling for a festive holiday variation.
• Flavor Boost: Mix in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts into the crumb topping for added texture and nutty flavor.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use vegan butter in the topping and a dairy-free pie crust.
• Spiced Version: Add a pinch of ground cardamom or allspice to the filling for an extra layer of warmth.

Personally, I love adding a splash of maple syrup to the filling during the fall—it adds a subtle sweetness and pairs beautifully with the cinnamon.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Apple crumb pie is best served slightly warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. If you’re feeling fancy, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top for an extra decadent touch.

To store leftovers, cover the pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually in airtight containers for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or microwave for 20-30 seconds.

Fun fact: The flavors of the apple filling deepen as the pie sits, so it’s even more delicious the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This recipe is packed with good-for-you ingredients:

• Apples: High in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
• Cinnamon: Supports healthy blood sugar levels and adds warmth and depth to the pie.
• Butter: Provides richness and that irresistible crumbly topping.

Each slice contains approximately:

• Calories: 320
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 3g

Keep in mind that the nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient substitutions. This recipe is vegetarian-friendly and can be adapted for gluten-free or dairy-free diets.

Conclusion

This irresistible apple crumb pie recipe is truly a keeper. It’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just want to treat yourself to something special, this pie is sure to impress.

Now, grab your apron, gather those apples, and let’s bake something unforgettable. Happy pie-making!

FAQs

What are the best apples for apple crumb pie?

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are excellent options because they hold their shape and balance tartness with sweetness. You can also mix varieties for a more complex flavor.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the pie up to 1 day ahead and store it in the fridge. Warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes before serving.

Can I freeze apple crumb pie?

Absolutely. Freeze individual slices or the whole pie in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How do I keep the crumb topping from getting soggy?

Make sure the topping is evenly distributed and avoid overpacking it. Baking at the correct temperature also helps keep it crisp.

What can I serve with apple crumb pie?

Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or caramel sauce are all fantastic pairings for this pie. A hot cup of coffee or tea also complements it beautifully.

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