If you’ve ever dreamed of a comforting, warmly spiced dessert that feels like a big, cozy hug from your kitchen, then you are going to adore this Dutch Apple Pie Recipe. This classic treat combines tender, juicy apples with a delightfully crumbly streusel topping that adds just the right amount of crunchy sweetness. It’s the perfect balance of tart and sweet, warmly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, nestled in a buttery, flaky crust. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or a quiet night in, this pie is a timeless dessert that wins hearts every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple and straightforward ingredients is the first step toward baking a spectacular Dutch Apple Pie Recipe. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from providing flavor and texture to creating that signature crumbly topping and tender filling.
- Apples (5 to 6, peeled, cored, and sliced thinly): The star of the show, choose tart and firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for perfect texture and tang.
- Lemon juice (1 lemon): Adds a fresh brightness to the apples and helps prevent browning while enhancing flavor.
- All-purpose flour (¼ cup for filling + 1 cup for topping): Thickens the juicy filling and creates the crumbly streusel topping.
- Granulated sugar (½ cup): Balances the tartness of the apples with a clean, sweet taste.
- Brown sugar (â…” cup, packed): Gives the topping its rich molasses flavor and pleasing chewiness.
- Cinnamon (2 teaspoons for filling + 1 teaspoon for topping): Brings that warm, aromatic spice that defines Dutch apple pie’s flavor profile.
- Ground cloves (¼ teaspoon): A little pinch adds depth and complexity to the spice mix.
- Ground nutmeg (¼ teaspoon): Adds a cozy warmth that perfectly complements the apples.
- Pie crust pastry (1, 9-inch, chilled): Provides a flaky, buttery base that holds everything together beautifully.
- Butter (½ cup, softened): Makes the topping tender and rich, giving that irresistible crumbly texture.
- Baking powder (½ teaspoon): Helps lighten the topping for a perfect crumb consistency.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness and spice.
How to Make Dutch Apple Pie Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling
Start by peeling, coring, and slicing your apples thinly; this ensures they cook evenly and absorb the spices wonderfully. Toss the apple slices right away in fresh lemon juice to keep them vibrant and firm. In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, then gently fold in the apples until coated evenly with this fragrant mixture. This blend of spices and sugar will infuse the apples with a perfectly balanced warmth and sweetness.
Step 2: Line and Fill Your Pie Crust
Take your chilled 9-inch pie crust and gently fit it into your pie dish, pressing to shape without stretching the dough. Pour the apple filling into the crust, piling it slightly higher in the center as it will settle during baking. The filling is wonderfully juicy but thickened just enough with flour to keep everything neat and luscious inside the crust.
Step 3: Make and Add the Streusel Topping
For the pièce de résistance, combine 1 cup of flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Work the softened butter into this dry mix using your fingers or a pastry cutter until you get a coarse crumb texture, almost like wet sand. Sprinkle this heavenly streusel generously over the apple filling, creating that signature crumbly, buttery top layer that makes a Dutch Apple Pie Recipe truly unforgettable.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pop your pie into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 55 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the topping nicely browned and crisp, and the filling bubbling through the crumbs. Once done, allow the pie to cool slightly so the juices thicken and the flavors settle beautifully before slicing.
How to Serve Dutch Apple Pie Recipe
Garnishes
When serving this Dutch Apple Pie Recipe, a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a match made in heaven, melting slowly over warm crumbs and apples. Alternatively, a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate every bite to pure bliss. For a final touch, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or dust with powdered sugar for an inviting, finished look that’s as lovely as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a fresh green salad or lightly spiced chai tea, offering a nice counterbalance to the pie’s richness. For special occasions, consider serving alongside a cheese platter where sharp cheddar complements apple desserts perfectly—trust me, it’s a delightful surprise for your palate!
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve your Dutch Apple Pie Recipe in mini ramekins for individual portions with a streusel topping, or cut squares and place them in clear dessert cups layered with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. Another idea is to turn leftovers into apple pie parfaits with layers of pie bits, cream, and nuts—an easy, stunning treat that will keep everyone coming back for more.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, wrap your Dutch Apple Pie Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 4 days, allowing you to enjoy warm, comforting slices long after baking day.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, the pie freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely to prevent freezer burn and store for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge to keep the texture just right.
Reheating
Reheat your pie slices in a conventional oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warm through. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the crumb topping crisp and the crust flaky. A warm slice feels like a hug from an old friend, truly making the Dutch Apple Pie Recipe worth every bite.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought pie crust for this Dutch Apple Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought pie crust works perfectly if you’re short on time or prefer convenience. Just make sure it’s well chilled before using to maintain flakiness during baking.
What types of apples are best for this pie?
Opt for tart, firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. These varieties hold their shape well and offer a lovely balance of tartness against the sweet, spiced topping.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend in the filling and topping. Make sure your pie crust is also gluten-free to keep the entire pie safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Using lemon juice on the apples slows browning but also slightly reduces juice release. Additionally, coating the apples in flour before adding to the crust helps absorb excess moisture. Baking the pie until bubbling also makes sure the filling thickens properly.
Can I prepare the Dutch Apple Pie Recipe ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the pie the day before baking, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When ready, bake it fresh for the best texture and flavor—or bake ahead and reheat gently before serving.
Final Thoughts
There is something endlessly satisfying about making and sharing a Dutch Apple Pie Recipe that brings a warm, inviting touch to any table. Its wonderful combination of tender apples, comforting spices, and crunchy topping is a timeless reminder of home and hearth. I warmly encourage you to try this recipe — it’s a joy from the first slice to the last crumb.
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Dutch Apple Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 35 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A classic Dutch Apple Pie featuring tender, cinnamon-spiced apple slices with a luscious buttery crumb topping baked in a flaky pie crust. Perfectly balanced with tart lemon juice and warm spices, this dessert is a comforting crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling
- 5 to 6 apples (2½ to 2¾ pounds), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1 lemon, juiced
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
For the Pie Crust
- 1 9-inch pie crust pastry (chilled, homemade or store-bought)
For the Crumble Topping
- ½ cup butter, softened
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- â…” cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Apple Filling: In a large bowl, toss the peeled, cored, and sliced apples with the lemon juice to prevent browning. Add the ¼ cup flour, granulated sugar, cinnamon, ground cloves, and ground nutmeg to the apples. Mix thoroughly ensuring all slices are evenly coated with the spice mixture. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld.
- Prepare the Pie Crust: Roll out your chilled 9-inch pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish, pressing it gently against the sides and bottom. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges for a decorative finish. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Make the Crumble Topping: In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, 1 cup flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Use a fork or your fingers to mix until the mixture forms a crumbly texture with small pea-sized pieces.
- Assemble the Pie: Pour the prepared apple filling into the pie crust, spreading evenly. Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the apples, ensuring good coverage to create a crunchy layer once baked.
- Bake the Pie: Place the pie on the middle rack of the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling. If the crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil halfway through baking to prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving. This resting time helps the filling to set properly for easier slicing and better flavor.
Notes
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith or a mix of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor and texture.
- Thinly slicing the apples ensures they cook evenly and become tender without turning mushy.
- If desired, add a splash of vanilla extract or a tablespoon of brandy to the apple filling for extra depth.
- For a crispier bottom crust, bake the pie on a preheated baking sheet.
- Pie can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.
