Best Dutch Apple Pie with Crumble Topping You’ll Love Baking

Caroline

Sharing simple, flavorful recipes made with love and care.

There’s something irresistible about the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon-spiced apples mingling with the buttery crunch of a crumble topping fresh from the oven. One chilly afternoon, craving a homemade treat that felt both nostalgic and effortlessly impressive, I decided to bake a Dutch Apple Pie with Crumble Topping—and what a delightful discovery it turned out to be! This recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweet, tart filling and a crisp, golden crumb layer that makes every bite pure bliss. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or simply tired of the usual fast food, this pie offers an easy yet impressive way to bring a slice of cozy tradition to your kitchen. Get ready to impress your loved ones and satisfy your sweet tooth with a classic dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Why choose Dutch Apple Pie with Crumble Topping?

Comforting Nostalgia: This pie blends cinnamon-spiced apples with a buttery crumble for that perfect homey feel. Simple & Impressive: Easy to bake, yet looks like a showstopper on any table. Perfect Balance: Sweet and tart filling meets crisp, golden topping for delightful texture contrast. Versatile Treat: Ideal for cozy family nights or impressing guests. Fresh & Wholesome: Made from pantry staples, no fast food fatigue here!

Dutch Apple Pie with Crumble Ingredients

For the Filling

Tart Apples – Choose Granny Smith or Braeburn for a perfect balance of sweet and tart that shines in Dutch Apple Pie with Crumble Topping.
Brown Sugar – Adds rich caramel notes that deepen the filling’s flavor.
Ground Cinnamon – The cozy spice that pairs perfectly with apples for that classic warmth.
Lemon Juice – Keeps the apples bright and prevents browning.
Cornstarch – Helps thicken the filling to a luscious, sliceable consistency.

For the Crumble Topping

All-Purpose Flour – The base for crumbly, golden topping texture.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a crisp crust.
Cold Butter – Cubed and chilled for a tender, melt-in-your-mouth crumble.
Rolled Oats – Optional but highly recommended for added chew and rustic charm.
Ground Nutmeg – A subtle spice boost that complements cinnamon beautifully.

How to Make Dutch Apple Pie with Crumble Topping

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and position the rack in the center. This ensures even baking for perfect golden-brown results.

For the Filling:

Toss Apples in a large bowl, gently combine apple slices with brown sugar, ground cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch until each slice is evenly coated.
Let Marinate let the apple mixture sit for 10 minutes so juices thicken and flavors meld into a luscious, sliceable filling.

Assemble Pie:

Roll Dough roll out the dough into a 9-inch pie plate, trim excess, and crimp edges to create a charming, rustic border.
Fill Crust spoon the apple filling into the prepared crust, spreading evenly and leaving space for the crumble topping.

For the Crumble Topping:

Mix Topping combine flour, granulated sugar, rolled oats, and nutmeg in a bowl, then toss in cold butter cubes until coarse crumbs form.
Crumble Over evenly sprinkle the topping across the apples, covering every nook to guarantee a perfect buttery crunch in each bite.
Bake bake for 40–45 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the filling bubbles up enticingly; cool 20 minutes before slicing.

Optional: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

Dutch Apple Pie with Crumble Topping is a fantastic treat to prepare in advance, saving you precious time on busy days! You can slice and toss the apples with lemon juice, sugar, and spices up to 24 hours ahead, allowing them to mingle in flavor while refrigerated. The crumble topping can also be mixed and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days to ensure it stays fresh and crunchy. When you’re ready to bake, simply roll out your pie dough, fill it with the apple mixture, top with the prepped crumble, and bake as directed. This method guarantees a scrumptious pie that’s just as delicious, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness without the last-minute rush!

Storage Tips for Dutch Apple Pie with Crumble Topping

Room Temperature: Allow the pie to cool completely, then store it covered at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps the topping crisp and prevents sogginess.

Fridge: If you need to store it longer, wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for up to 5 days. The cool air helps maintain flavor while keeping slices fresh.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: To enjoy your Dutch Apple Pie with Crumble Topping warm, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for a lovely, just-baked experience.

Dutch Apple Pie with Crumble Topping Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful alternatives that make this classic pie even more enjoyable!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a pie everyone can savor.
Nutty Crumble: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping for an extra layer of texture and flavor. They toast beautifully and deliver a satisfying crunch with each bite.
Dairy-Free: Replace butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine for a vegan-friendly version that’s just as delicious. The natural fats create a lovely crumble that’s dairy-free yet rich.
Spiced Up: Incorporate ground ginger or allspice into the apple filling for a warm, cozy twist that adds complexity to the sweetness. Just a hint can elevate the overall profile and make your pie truly unique.
Berry Delight: Mix in a cup of fresh or frozen blueberries or cranberries with the apple filling for a burst of color and tartness that complements the sweet apples beautifully.
Maple Sweetener: Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup for a rich, deep flavor that enhances the pie’s natural sweetness while adding a touch of autumn. Just be mindful of the liquid consistency!
Extra Zesty: Add the zest of a lemon or orange to the apple mixture for a refreshing zing that brightens up the sweet and tart flavors, making every bite a little more vibrant.
Caramel Drizzle: Pour melted caramel over the baked pie for an indulgent finishing touch that transforms your Dutch Apple Pie into a decadent dessert sensation!

What to Serve with Dutch Apple Pie with Crumble Topping?

The delightful warmth of this pie invites companionship with flavors that enhance its comforting profile.

Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that adds creamy richness, balancing the pie’s sweet and spiced notes.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the pie creates a decadent layer, adding sweetness and a gooey texture that complements the crunch.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream brings a smooth counterpart to the pie’s crisp topping, making each bite feel indulgent.
Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai harmonize beautifully with the cinnamon in the pie, creating a warm, cozy experience.
Coffee: A rich cup of coffee contrasts the sweet apple filling, enhancing the overall flavor and providing a comforting vibe.
Cheddar Cheese: For the adventurous, sharp cheddar offers an unexpected savory twist, creating an exciting sweet and salty combination with the pie.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: With its creamy texture and spicy undertones, this seasonal drink pairs well, echoing the fall flavors of the pie.
Nutty Crumble Bars: Providing a similar texture, these bars can serve as complementary bites, extending the cozy feeling of your dessert table.
Cranberry Sauce: A tart, fruity component that brightens each slice, enhancing the pie’s sweetness while providing an extra layer of flavor.

Expert Tips for Dutch Apple Pie with Crumble Topping

Choose the Right Apples: Use tart, firm apples like Granny Smith or Braeburn to ensure your Dutch Apple Pie with Crumble Topping holds its shape and offers balanced sweetness.
Keep Butter Cold: Chill butter before mixing into the crumble to create a tender, flaky topping rather than a greasy mess.
Don’t Overmix Crumble: Gently toss butter and dry ingredients just until crumbs form to avoid dense, heavy topping.
Marinate Filling Well: Let the apple mixture rest 10 minutes so the cornstarch activates, thickening the filling perfectly—skip this and you might get a runny pie.
Bake on Center Rack: Position your pie in the oven’s center for even heat distribution, preventing soggy bottom or burnt edges.
Cool Before Slicing: Allow the pie to cool 20 minutes so filling sets, making slicing cleaner and serving more visually appealing.

Dutch Apple Pie with Crumble Topping Recipe FAQs

What type of apples work best for Dutch Apple Pie with Crumble Topping?
Tart, firm apples like Granny Smith or Braeburn are ideal. They hold their shape during baking and provide the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors that make this pie so delightful.

How should I store leftover Dutch Apple Pie with Crumble Topping?
Cool the pie completely before storing. At room temperature, keep it covered for up to 2 days to maintain the crumble’s crispness. For longer storage, wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 5 days. This helps preserve flavor and texture without sogginess.

Can I freeze Dutch Apple Pie with Crumble Topping? How?
Absolutely! Freeze individual slices wrapped well in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They’ll keep up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to revive that fresh-baked magic.

Why did my crumble topping become soggy instead of crunchy?
Usually, soggy topping happens if the butter was too soft or the pie was stored warm and covered too tightly. Always use cold butter when mixing the crumble and allow the pie to cool uncovered before storing. Baking on the center rack also helps achieve that crisp, golden texture.

Is Dutch Apple Pie with Crumble Topping safe for pets?
While this pie is a beloved human treat, it’s best to keep it away from pets. Ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar can upset their digestion. If you want to share a special snack with your furry friends, consider pet-safe homemade treats instead!