Apple Pie with Crumb Topping

There’s something magical about the aroma of a freshly baked pie wafting through the house, and for me, nothing captures that feeling quite like Apple Pie with Crumb Topping. I remember the first time I made it, standing in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, where the warmth of the oven blended with the sweet, tart scent of Granny Smith apples. It was a crisp fall afternoon, and the leaves outside were a riot of colors, perfectly matching the vibrant apples I had just picked. As I rolled out the pie crust and prepared the crumb topping, I felt a sense of nostalgia wash over me, a connection to the traditions that had been passed down through generations. Every bite of this pie brings back those cherished memories, and it’s a recipe I’m excited to share with you today.

Ingredients Overview for Apple Pie with Crumb Topping

The ingredients for Apple Pie with Crumb Topping are simple yet essential, working together to create a mouthwatering dessert. The star of the show is, of course, the Granny Smith apples, known for their perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. The butter adds richness, while the flour and sugar come together to form a deliciously crumbly topping. Each ingredient plays a vital role in making this pie a true delight.

• 1 All Butter Pie Crust: A homemade or refrigerated pie crust serves as the perfect base, providing a flaky and buttery foundation for the pie.
• 3 pounds Granny Smith apples: The tartness of these apples balances beautifully with the sweetness of the topping.
• ¼ cup sugar: Adds sweetness to the apples, enhancing their natural flavors.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: A warm spice that complements the apples perfectly, adding depth to the flavor profile.
• ⅔ cup sugar: This is for the crumb topping, creating a delightful sweetness and crunch.
• 1 ½ cups flour: The key component for the crumb topping, giving it structure and texture.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
• 12 tablespoons unsalted butter: The fat that brings richness to the crust and topping, ensuring a delicious flavor.

Cooking Instructions for Apple Pie with Crumb Topping

Making Apple Pie with Crumb Topping is an enjoyable experience that fills your home with delightful aromas. Follow these steps, and soon you’ll have a beautiful pie to share.

1. Roll out your pie crust according to recipe or package directions and place it in your 9-inch pie plate. Refrigerate until ready to use. This helps keep the crust firm and flaky.
2. Peel and core the Granny Smith apples, then slice them into thin pieces. I like using my apple peeler for this step, as it makes it easy and quick.
3. Place one inch of water in the bottom of a large pot. Add the sliced apples and cook, stirring occasionally for about 3 to 5 minutes after the water starts boiling or just until the apples turn slightly opaque.
4. While the apples are cooking, prepare the crumb topping. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and butter. Use a fork or pastry cutter to mix until the ingredients form coarse crumbs resembling pea-sized pieces.
5. Once the apples have cooked, drain them very well in a strainer. Let them sit for a few minutes to cool down. Then, add the apples into the pie crust.
6. Sprinkle ¼ cup of sugar and cinnamon over the apple slices, ensuring they are evenly coated.
7. Spread your crumb mixture evenly on top of the apples, creating a nice layer.
8. To prevent any mess in the oven, place the pie on a cookie sheet. Cover the outer edge of the crust with thin strips of foil or use a pie crust shield. This will help prevent it from getting overdone.
9. Bake in the preheated oven at 425°F for 10 minutes, then lower the temperature to 350°F and continue baking for 30 to 40 minutes. Remove the pie crust shield during the last 15 minutes to allow the crust to brown nicely.
10. Once baked, let the pie cool before slicing. This allows the juices to set, making it easier to serve.
11. For serving, you can enjoy it with whipped cream or ice cream. If you make it a day in advance, refrigerate overnight for the best flavor. Baked pie can be frozen for up to a month!

Recipe Variations about Apple Pie with Crumb Topping

There are so many ways to enjoy Apple Pie with Crumb Topping. Here are some fun variations and tips to make this recipe your own.

• Storage: Store leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will last for about 3 to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked pie for up to a month. Just wrap it tightly in plastic before placing it in the freezer. Bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Pairing: Serve the pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat.
• Fruit Mix: Experiment with different fruits like peaches or berries mixed in with the apples for a unique flavor.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the filling for additional warmth and flavor.

Best Served With

When it comes to serving Apple Pie with Crumb Topping, there are plenty of delightful options to elevate your experience. Here are some ideas:

• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm pie, creating a comforting dessert experience.
• Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the crunchy topping.
• Seasonal Fruits: Serve with a side of fresh seasonal fruits like pears or berries for a refreshing touch.
• Warm Beverages: Complement the pie with a hot cup of tea or coffee, perfect for those chilly fall evenings.
• Family Gatherings: This pie is a crowd-pleaser at Thanksgiving dinners or other family gatherings, making it a go-to dessert.
• Picnics: It’s also a wonderful dessert for picnics; just slice it up and serve cold!

FAQ

Conclusion

Apple Pie with Crumb Topping is not just a dessert; it’s a slice of comfort and tradition that brings warmth to any gathering. This pie is perfect for celebrating the cozy flavors of fall and is sure to impress your family and friends. I encourage you to give it a try; you’ll find that with each bite, you’re not just enjoying a delicious treat but also creating lasting memories. So preheat your oven and get ready to indulge in this delightful recipe!

Apple Pie with Crumb Topping

The ultimate comfort food, Apple Pie with Crumb Topping combines sweet and tart apples with a buttery crumb topping. This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion, bringing warmth and nostalgia to your table. Whether enjoyed warm with ice cream or chilled, this pie is sure to satisfy your cravings!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 30 minutes mins

Servings: 10 servings

Course: Desserts

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pie crust All Butter Pie Crust or you can use a refrigerated pie crust
• 3 pounds Granny Smith apples (5-7 depending on size)
• ¼ cup sugar (50g)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ⅔ cup sugar (133g)
• 1 ½ cups flour (186g)
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 12 tablespoons unsalted butter (170g) slightly softened

Equipment

• Oven
• Wooden Spoon
• Peeler
• Baking Sheet
• Mixing Bowl
• Chef's Knife
• Large Pot

Method

 

1. Roll out your pie crust according to recipe or package directions and place it in your 9-inch pie plate. Refrigerate until ready to use.
2. Peel and core the Granny Smith apples, then slice them into thin pieces. I like using my apple peeler for this step.
3. Place one inch of water in the bottom of a large pot. Add the sliced apples and cook, stirring occasionally for about 3 to 5 minutes after the water starts boiling or just until the apples turn slightly opaque.
4. While the apples are cooking, prepare the crumb topping. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, salt, and butter. Use a fork or pastry cutter to mix until the ingredients form coarse crumbs.
5. Once the apples have cooked, drain them very well in a strainer. Let them sit for a few minutes to cool down. Then, add the apples into the pie crust.
6. Sprinkle ¼ cup of sugar and cinnamon over the apple slices, ensuring they are evenly coated.
7. Spread your crumb mixture evenly on top of the apples, creating a nice layer.
8. To prevent any mess in the oven, place the pie on a cookie sheet. Cover the outer edge of the crust with thin strips of foil or use a pie crust shield.
9. Bake in the preheated oven at 425°F for 10 minutes, then lower the temperature to 350°F and continue baking for 30 to 40 minutes.
10. Once baked, let the pie cool before slicing. This allows the juices to set, making it easier to serve.
11. For serving, you can enjoy it with whipped cream or ice cream. If you make it a day in advance, refrigerate overnight for the best flavor.

Notes

• Tip 1: Use a pie shield for the early part of baking to prevent the outer crust from becoming too brown.
• Tip 2: Ovens can vary in heat, so if you notice the top browning too quickly, cover the pie loosely with foil.
• Tip 3: To achieve a crispy bottom crust, bake the pie at a high temperature for the first 10 to 15 minutes before lowering the temperature.
• Tip 4: For best results, bake in glass pie plates rather than porcelain. Glass allows you to see the bottom crust to check for doneness.
• Tip 5: Allow the pie to cool completely before slicing to prevent the filling from running.

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Meet Tessa Gray

I’m the “Poppy” I bring a touch of brightness and artistry to our kitchen. As our head baker, I specialize in wild-yeast sourdough and delicate pastries that use seasonal fruits and edible flowers. While I love baking, I’m also always helping Chloe and Maya cook our savory dishes. I believe every hearty meal deserves a beautiful, sweet finish!