Dutch Apple Pie Recipe: Apple pies have always been a classic dessert, but the Dutch Apple Pie takes it to a whole new level. With its crumbly streusel topping, rich apple filling, and flaky crust, it’s the perfect blend of textures and flavors.
Originating from the Netherlands, this pie differs from the traditional lattice-top American apple pie by featuring a sweet and buttery crumb topping.
Whether you’re a baking enthusiast or just looking to impress at your next gathering, this step-by-step guide will help you create the ultimate Dutch apple pie.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
What makes this pie so irresistible? Let’s break it down:
- Unique Crumb Topping – The buttery streusel adds a delightful crunch.
- Rich Flavor – A combination of cinnamon-spiced apples and brown sugar creates a deep, caramel-like sweetness.
- Easy Customization – Add nuts, caramel drizzle, or even raisins for a personalized touch.
- Comfort Food Vibes – Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or cozy weekends.
If you love desserts that combine warm spices and sweet apples, this recipe will quickly become your go-to treat.
Ingredients Needed
Let’s start by gathering all the ingredients you’ll need for the crust, filling, and crumb topping.
Crust Ingredients:
- 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
Filling Ingredients:
- 6 cups sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Crumb Topping Ingredients:
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
Equipment Required
Before you begin, make sure you have these tools handy:
- Mixing Bowls – For the crust, filling, and topping.
- Pastry Cutter or Fork – To mix and blend butter into the flour.
- Pie Dish (9-inch) – The perfect size for this recipe.
- Apple Peeler and Corer – For quick apple prep.
- Rolling Pin – To roll out the pie crust.
- Oven Thermometer – Ensures accurate baking temperature.
How To Make Dutch Apple Pie – Step by Step Guide
Step 1: Preparing the Pie Crust
A great pie starts with a perfect crust. You can use a store-bought crust, but making it from scratch gives it a homemade touch.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients – Combine flour and salt in a bowl.
- Cut in the Butter – Add cold, cubed butter and cut it into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add Ice Water – Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Chill the Dough – Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Pro Tip: If you want a flakier crust, handle the dough as little as possible to avoid melting the butter.
Step 2: Making the Apple Filling
The apple filling is the heart of this pie. Here’s how to prepare it:
- Choose the Right Apples – Granny Smith apples offer a tart flavor, while Honeycrisp adds sweetness. Mix both for balance.
- Peel and Slice Apples – Peel, core, and slice apples into ¼-inch slices.
- Mix Ingredients – Toss the apple slices in a large bowl with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. This mixture prevents browning and enhances flavor.
Pro Tip: Let the filling sit for 10 minutes to release juices. Drain excess liquid to avoid a soggy pie.
Step 3: Preparing the Crumb Topping
The crumb topping is what makes this pie special. It’s buttery, crunchy, and super easy to make.
- Mix Dry Ingredients – Combine flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl.
- Add Butter – Pour in melted butter and mix until crumbs form. Use your fingers to create large chunks for texture.
Pro Tip: Freeze the crumb topping for 10 minutes before adding it to the pie for an even crispier texture.
Step 4: Assembling the Pie
Now that the crust, filling, and crumb topping are ready, it’s time to assemble your Dutch apple pie.
- Roll Out the Dough – On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle.
- Fit into Pie Dish – Carefully transfer the dough to a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges for a decorative finish.
- Add the Apple Filling – Spread the prepared apple filling evenly into the crust. Be sure to layer it gently to avoid air pockets.
- Top with Crumb Mixture – Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the apple filling, covering it completely.
Pro Tip: Press the crumb topping lightly to ensure it adheres to the filling without compacting it too much.
Step 5: Baking the Pie
Baking your Dutch apple pie to golden perfection requires precision. Follow these steps:
- Preheat the Oven – Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and allow it to fully preheat.
- Protect the Crust Edges – Use a pie shield or aluminum foil to cover the edges of the crust. This prevents over-browning.
- Bake the Pie – Place the pie in the center of the oven and bake for 45–55 minutes or until the filling is bubbly and the topping is golden brown.
- Check Doneness – If the topping browns too quickly, cover it loosely with foil and continue baking.
Pro Tip: Place a baking sheet under the pie dish to catch any drips and avoid oven messes.
Cooling and Serving the Pie
Once the pie is baked, patience is key to achieving the perfect slice:
- Cool on a Wire Rack – Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours. This helps the filling set properly.
- Add Optional Toppings – Serve with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Slice and Enjoy – Use a sharp knife to cut clean slices and serve with your favorite beverages like coffee or cider.
Optional Add-Ons and Variations
You can customize this recipe in several ways to make it your own:
- Add Nuts – Mix chopped pecans or walnuts into the crumb topping for extra crunch.
- Caramel Drizzle – Pour warm caramel sauce over the pie for added sweetness.
- Spiced Filling – Add a pinch of cloves or ginger for a richer flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option – Substitute gluten-free flour for both the crust and topping to make it celiac-friendly.
Storage Tips
Proper storage keeps your pie fresh for days. Here’s how to store leftovers:
- Room Temperature – Keep the pie at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with plastic wrap or foil.
- Refrigerator – For longer storage, refrigerate the pie for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the microwave before serving.
- Freezing Instructions – Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
To guarantee the best results, avoid these common pie-baking pitfalls:
- Soggy Crust – Prevent a soggy bottom by pre-baking (blind baking) the crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling.
- Overloading the Filling – Too many apples can cause the pie to overflow. Stick to the recommended quantity.
- Underbaking – Make sure the apples are fully cooked and tender. Test with a fork before removing from the oven.
- Overmixing the Crumb Topping – Keep the crumbs chunky to maintain texture.
Tips for Success
- Use Firm Apples – Softer apples can turn mushy during baking. Stick with firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
- Chill the Dough – Cold dough makes for a flakier crust, so don’t skip the chilling step.
- Let It Rest – Allow the pie to set completely before slicing for clean, even cuts.
- Experiment with Spices – Don’t be afraid to add cardamom or allspice for extra flavor.
- Practice Patience – Baking is an art—take your time and follow each step carefully.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional content for one slice of Dutch apple pie (approx. 1/8th of the pie):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 340–380 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 55g |
| Protein | 3g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Sugars | 35g |
| Fiber | 4g |
Note: Values may vary based on ingredients and serving size.
FAQs about Dutch Apple Pie Recipe
1. What is a Dutch Apple Pie?
A Dutch Apple Pie, distinct from its classic counterpart, features a crumbly, streusel topping made from butter, flour, and sugar, instead of a pie crust top. This gives it a sweet, textured layer that complements the soft, cinnamon-spiced apples beneath.
2. What are the best apples to use for a Dutch Apple Pie?
For the perfect blend of sweetness and tartness, Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are highly recommended. These varieties hold up well during baking and provide a balanced flavor profile that enhances the overall taste of the pie.
3. How do you prevent the pie crust from getting soggy?
To avoid a soggy pie crust, pre-bake the crust (blind baking) for about 10 minutes before adding the apple filling. Additionally, you can sprinkle a thin layer of breadcrumbs or almond meal on the bottom crust before filling to absorb excess juice.
4. Can Dutch Apple Pie be made in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Dutch Apple Pie ahead of time. Bake the pie as directed, allow it to cool completely, and then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for up to five days.
5. Is Dutch Apple Pie freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! Dutch Apple Pie freezes beautifully. Wrap the pie tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm up in the oven before serving.
Conclusion
Dutch apple pie is more than just a dessert—it’s a slice of comfort that brings people together. Its crumbly topping, spiced apple filling, and buttery crust make it a timeless favorite for any occasion. Whether you’re baking it for Thanksgiving or a casual family dinner, this step-by-step guide ensures you’ll have a show-stopping dessert every time.
So grab your apron, roll up your sleeves, and give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!
