Apple Crumble Pie: A Sweet Classic Delight

Discover the comforting flavors of a classic Apple Crumble Pie, where tender, spiced apples meet a buttery, crunchy topping. This dessert is perfect for any occasion, providing a warm, delightful experience in every bite. Learn how to prepare this irresistible pie and impress your family and friends with its homemade charm.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Apple Crumble Pie offers a perfect marriage of sweetness and spice, with a delightful texture that combines juicy apples and a crisp crumble topping. It’s easy to make and fills your home with a delicious aroma that embodies warmth and comfort, perfect for cozy gatherings or festive celebrations.

Beyond its flavors, this pie is versatile, serving as an ideal dessert for holidays like Thanksgiving or as a comforting treat after dinner. Its simple preparation and impressive results will quickly make it a favorite in your baking repertoire.

Context/Background

Originating from a rich tradition of British baking, the crumble topping was initially popularized during wartime due to rationing, which made it an economical alternative to pie crusts. The Apple Crumble Pie, however, adds a classic American touch with its buttery flaky crust and carefully spiced apple filling, creating a universally loved dessert.

Recipe Details

Serves: 8

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 6 cups peeled and sliced apples
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (for crumble topping)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (for crumble topping)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out your pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie plate. Trim and crimp the edges.
3. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and flour. Toss to coat the apples evenly.
4. Transfer the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust.
5. In a separate bowl, mix softened butter, 1 cup flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, and salt. Use your hands or a fork to combine until crumbly.
6. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apples.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
8. Let the pie cool for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Tips for Perfect Apple Crumble Pie

• Use a variety of apples for a more complex flavor.
• Ensure your butter is cold when making the crumble topping for a crisp texture.
• Cover the edges of the crust with foil if they brown too quickly.
• Let the pie cool completely for easier slicing and serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Apple Crumble Pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any remaining pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven to maintain its crisp topping.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to the kitchen, this Apple Crumble Pie is worth every bite. Its delightful mix of textures and flavors will make it a staple in your dessert rotation, bringing smiles to every gathering.

Recipe Notes

• For a vegan version, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative.
• Try adding a handful of chopped nuts to the crumble for added crunch.
• If you want a less sweet version, reduce the sugars slightly according to taste.