Nothing says home quite like the warm, inviting aroma of an apple pie baking in the oven. Growing up, apple pie was a staple at our family gatherings, especially during the fall. The crunch of fallen leaves underfoot, the chill in the air, and the sweet scent of apples and cinnamon wafting through the house bring back cherished memories of my grandmother’s kitchen. She had a way of making everything feel special and comforting, and her apple pie was no exception.
This apple pie with a crumb topping is a slight twist on her classic recipe. I remember the first time I tried it with a crumb topping instead of the traditional double crust. It was during a visit to a cozy little café in Vermont, where they served it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The crumb topping added a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor, thanks to the chopped walnuts, that perfectly complemented the sweet, tender apples beneath. Ever since then, it has become my go-to recipe for an easy yet impressive dessert.
One of the great things about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re using fresh-picked apples from a local orchard or the ones you have on hand in your pantry, it’s sure to be a hit. And if you have a gluten-free diet, don’t worry! This recipe works just as well with gluten-free flour. The crumbly, buttery topping is what truly sets this pie apart, adding an extra layer of texture and flavor that everyone will love.
I encourage you to try this apple pie with crumb topping and see how it transforms your dessert experience. It’s perfect for holidays, family dinners, or just because you want a slice of something comforting and delicious. Trust me, once you’ve had a bite, it will become a beloved part of your recipe collection too.
How to Make Apple Pie With Crumb Topping
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Ingredients
- 3/4 cup flour (all-purpose or gluten-free)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 5 cups sliced apples (about 6-7 apples)
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons flour (all-purpose or gluten-free)
- 1/3 cup butter (melted)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 3/4 cup walnuts (chopped)
- 1 9-inch pie crust
Directions
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F and preparing your pie crust, either homemade or store-bought.
- In a large bowl, mix the sliced apples with 1/2 cup of sugar, cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons of flour until the apples are evenly coated.
- In a separate bowl, create the crumb topping by combining the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, 3/4 cup of flour, and chopped walnuts. Pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture becomes crumbly.
- Place the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust, then sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apples.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown. Remove from the oven and allow the pie to cool for 10 minutes before serving.
FAQs:
What type of apples are best for making apple pie with crumb topping?
For apple pie with crumb topping, it is best to use a combination of tart and sweet apples. Granny Smith apples are a popular choice for their tartness, while Honeycrisp or Fuji apples can add sweetness and balance. This mix ensures a flavorful and textured filling.
Can I make the crumb topping ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the crumb topping ahead of time. Simply mix the ingredients and store the topping in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This can save time on the day you plan to bake the pie.
How do I prevent the pie crust from becoming soggy?
To prevent a soggy pie crust, you can pre-bake the crust for about 10 minutes at 375°F before adding the apple filling. Another method is to sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs or crushed graham crackers on the bottom of the crust before adding the apples. Both methods help absorb excess moisture from the filling.
Is it possible to make this pie gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this pie gluten-free by using gluten-free flour for both the pie crust and the crumb topping. Ensure all other ingredients, like the sugar and butter, are naturally gluten-free. Additionally, you can purchase a pre-made gluten-free pie crust for convenience.
Can I substitute the walnuts in the crumb topping?
If you have a nut allergy or prefer a different flavor, you can substitute walnuts with other nuts like pecans or almonds. Alternatively, you can use rolled oats or crushed graham crackers for a nut-free crumb topping. Each option adds a unique texture and flavor to the pie.
How do I store leftover apple pie with crumb topping?
Leftover apple pie with crumb topping should be stored in the refrigerator. Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
Apple Pie With Crumb Topping
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 5 cups sliced apples about 6-7 apples
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 3/4 cup flour all-purpose or gluten-free
- 3/4 cup walnuts chopped
- 2 tablespoons flour all-purpose or gluten-free
- 1 9- inch pie crust
- 1/3 cup butter melted
Instructions
- Prepare your pie crust or use a store-bought one. Preheat the oven to 400F.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine your sliced apples, 1/2 cup of sugar, cinnamon, and 2 tablespoons of flour. Mix well to coat the apples evenly.
- In another bowl, make the crumb topping by mixing the remaining 1/2 cup of sugar, 3/4 cup of flour, and chopped walnuts. Add the melted butter and mix until it forms a crumbly texture.
- Transfer the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust. Spread the crumb topping evenly over the apples.
- Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, until the topping is golden brown. Remove from the oven and let it sit for 10 minutes before serving.
