Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Recipe

Nothing evokes warm memories like the comforting aroma of baking apples mingled with spices. Dutch apple crumble pie captures that essence beautifully. This recipe brings together the tartness of apples with a crunchy topping that makes every bite delightful.

Growing up, my family always gathered for Sunday dinners, and dessert often featured a homemade apple pie. Each bite stirred nostalgia, reminding me of cozy evenings spent with loved ones. The recipe I present today takes that classic apple pie and elevates it with a rich crumble topping, ensuring it’s just as heartwarming, if not more so.

Using fresh apples, aromatic spices, and a buttery crumble, this Dutch apple crumble pie recipe has quickly become a household favorite. Whether hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening, this pie will undoubtedly bring joy. Let’s dive into this scrumptious creation that not only satisfies sweet cravings but also keeps traditions alive.

Dutch Apple Crumble Pie

Fundamentals

Creating a Dutch apple crumble pie begins with choosing the right apples. Combine tart and sweet varieties for a flavorful filling. Depending on availability and personal preferences, Granny Smith apples provide a necessary tartness, while Honeycrisp apples add sweetness. Golden Delicious apples round out the mix with their juicy flavor, enhancing the overall experience.

Next comes preparing the homemade pie crust. While store-bought options are available, nothing beats a freshly made crust. Use a pie dough prepared in advance for a flaky texture that complements the filling. Ensuring your pie crust is chilled will make it more manageable during assembly.

Preparation/Setup

Begin by gathering your ingredients:

• 1 homemade single pie crust (1 sheet of pie dough)
• 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
• Juice from half a lemon (2 tablespoons, no more)
• 5 pounds apples (mix of varieties for best flavor)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 & 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 3/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• For the crumble:
  • 1 & 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 3/4 cup butter (melted, 1 and 1/2 sticks)

Start by zesting the lemon into a high-sided skillet. Next, extract the juice, pouring it into the skillet. Both the zest and juice will keep the apples from browning and enhance their flavor.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 5 pounds of apples (approximately 11 large apples)
• 1/4 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 & 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 3/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon cardamom (optional)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla

For the Crumble:

• 1 & 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 3/4 cup melted butter (1 and 1/2 sticks)

Directions

Peel and slice the apples. Aim for 1/8 inch pieces to ensure even cooking. Add the slices to the skillet with lemon juice. Stir often to coat them with the juice and zest, preventing browning.

Turn the burner under the skillet to medium heat. Combine the sugars, flour, spices, and salt in the skillet, and gently mix to coat the apple slices.

Cover the skillet and cook for 20 minutes, stirring every few minutes to check for sticking. If you notice any sticking, add a little water as needed. The apples should become tender but still maintain their shape.

Once cooked, remove from heat and stir in the vanilla. Transfer the mixture to a half-sheet pan to cool completely.

While the apple filling cools, roll out the pie crust and press it into a 9-inch pie dish. Crimp the edges to create a beautiful border. Chill the crust in the refrigerator or freezer for at least 30 minutes before assembling the pie.

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit, placing a baking sheet or pizza stone inside. This prepares a hot surface for the pie that helps achieve a crisp crust.

Prepare the crumble by mixing flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and a pinch of salt in a medium bowl. Melt the butter and pour it over the dry ingredients. Stir gently until the mixture resembles wet sand with larger clumps.

After cooling the apple filling completely, spread it into the chilled pie crust. Top the apples with enough crumble to cover them well, reserving the remaining crumble for later use.

Bake the pie for 15 minutes at 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Then, reduce the temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and bake for another 10 minutes. Keep a watchful eye on the pie’s edges to ensure they don’t over-brown.

Prepare a piece of tin foil to shield the crust from burning. Once the total bake time has reached 25 minutes, carefully remove the pie and sprinkle the remaining crumble over the top. Protect the crust’s edge with the foil, allowing the center to remain exposed.

Return the pie to bake for an additional 25-35 minutes at 350 degrees Fahrenheit. The pie will finish when the crust is golden brown, and the crumble has a light golden hue in the center.

Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least four hours. This crucial cooling period allows the filling to set, avoiding a liquid, soggy mess.

Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Techniques

Technique

Mastering the technique of making Dutch apple crumble pie elevates this dessert to new heights. Consistency in slicing apples leads to even cooking, allowing for that desired fork-tender texture. Paying attention while cooking the apple filling ensures that the sugars caramelize without burning.

When creating the crumble, achieving the right texture is vital. Everyone loves a sandy, clumpy crumble that crisps up beautifully, providing contrast to the soft apples below.

Tips/Tricks

Experiment with the blend of apples based on personal taste. Combining sweet and tart varieties opens up unique flavor potential. Consider adding other spices like allspice or ginger for a different twist.

Always chill the pie crust before baking to maintain that flaky, tender texture. Preheating the baking surface ensures that the bottom crust cooks thoroughly without becoming soggy.

After baking, resist the urge to cut into the pie immediately. Allowing it to cool lets the filling set, providing clean slices and a more pleasant eating experience.

Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Variations

Perfecting Results

To perfect this recipe, consider the variety of apples you select. Their individual sweetness and acidity levels play a significant role in the final flavor of the pie. Always taste the filling before baking to adjust the sugar or spices as necessary.

If you prefer a more indulgent experience, add a layer of caramel to the apple mixture before topping with crumble. This addition enhances the flavor and creates a delicious gooey texture that pairs perfectly with the crisp topping.

Troubleshooting

If the crust becomes too brown before the filling cooks properly, cover the edges sooner with foil. If you notice the crumble burning, you can also cover it midway through baking to prevent further browning.

In case the apples turn out too soft, reduce the cooking time initially. It’s essential to strike a balance between tenderness and maintaining the apple’s shape.

Dutch Apple Crumble Pie Serving Suggestions

Serving/Presentation

Serve the Dutch apple crumble pie warm for the best experience. A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts into the warm pie, enhancing every bite. Alternatively, whipped cream can elevate the presentation while adding a luxurious touch.

Use a sharp knife to slice the pie, ensuring clean cuts that showcase the beautiful filling and contrasting topping. Plating the pie with a drizzle of caramel sauce adds an extra layer of richness and visual appeal.

Pairings/Storage

Store any leftover pie covered with plastic wrap or foil on the counter for up to two days. For longer storage, transfer the pie to the refrigerator. Reheat slices in the oven to restore their crispness before serving.

Pair the pie with coffee or hot cocoa for a cozy treat. The combination of flavors and warmth creates a comforting experience perfect for chilly evenings.

This Dutch apple crumble pie unites tradition with contemporary flavors, inviting everyone to savor each slice. Whether for gatherings or a simple dessert, this pie remains a timeless classic amidst all gatherings.

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