Apple Crumble Pie

Apple crumble pie recipes always make me think of cozy afternoons at my grandmother’s house when the entire place would fill with the smell of warm cinnamon linking sweet baked apples linking and buttery crumbs. I remember sitting by the kitchen window linking watching her slice apples so quickly linking and I always tried to sneak a piece before she noticed linking but she always caught me linking laughing as she shooed me away.

As I grew up linking I started making my own version of this pie linking adding a crunchy crumble topping that I love linking and it quickly became a favorite at every holiday gathering linking from Thanksgiving dinners to casual Sunday lunches. The combination of tender spiced apples linking flaky crust linking and that golden-brown crumble topping always impresses my family and friends linking and I know you’ll fall in love with it too!

Ingredients

• Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
• Apples – The star of the pie, they bring sweetness and a juicy texture.
• Sugar – To sweeten the filling and help the apples release their juices.
• Cinnamon – Adds a warm, comforting spice to the apples.
• Nutmeg – Gives a subtle, earthy warmth that pairs well with cinnamon.
• Lemon juice – Brightens up the flavor and balances the sweetness.
• All-purpose flour – Helps thicken the filling and forms the crumble.
• Butter – Creates richness and makes the crumble crisp and golden.
• Brown sugar – Deepens the flavor of the crumble topping.
• Rolled oats – Adds texture and crunch to the crumble.
• Pie crust – A buttery base that holds everything together.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls – For combining the apple filling and crumble topping separately.
• Peeler and knife – To peel and slice the apples evenly.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To get the right balance of flavors.
• 9-inch pie dish – Perfect size for this classic pie.
• Pastry cutter or fork – To mix the crumble topping into coarse crumbs.
• Oven – Essential for baking until golden and bubbling.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the apples

I start by peeling, coring, and thinly slicing the apples. I like to make sure they’re about ¼-inch thick so they cook evenly.

Step 2: Mix the filling

In a large bowl, I toss the apple slices with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and flour. I make sure every slice is well-coated to create a delicious, syrupy filling.

Step 3: Prepare the crust

I place my pie crust into a 9-inch dish and gently press it into the bottom and sides. I trim any extra dough hanging over the edge.

Step 4: Add the apple filling

I pour the apple mixture into the prepared crust and smooth it out so it’s evenly distributed.

Step 5: Make the crumble topping

In another bowl, I mix flour, brown sugar, rolled oats, and cold butter. I use a pastry cutter or my fingers to create a crumbly texture.

Step 6: Top the pie

I sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over the apple filling, covering it completely for that perfect crispy finish.

Step 7: Bake

I bake the pie at 375°F (190°C) for about 50-60 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Step 8: Cool

I let the pie cool for at least an hour before slicing so the filling can set.

Tips

If your apples are very sweet, I sometimes reduce the sugar slightly. I also like to add a handful of chopped nuts to the crumble for extra crunch. And if you love extra spice, a pinch of ginger or cardamom makes a great twist!

Ways to Serve

I love serving this apple crumble pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s also delicious at room temperature with a drizzle of caramel sauce or even for breakfast with a cup of coffee!

Frequently Asked Questions

What apples are best for apple crumble pie?

I recommend using firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp so they hold their shape while baking.

Can I make apple crumble pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and bake it a day ahead and reheat slices as needed.

How do I store apple crumble pie?

Cover and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this apple crumble pie a try! It’s one of my family’s most-requested desserts, and I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Share your baking photos or let me know if you added your own twist!

Happy Cooking!

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