Name: Dutch Apple Pie Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Ingredients: 6 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples; 1/2 cup pure cane sugar, coconut sugar, honey or maple; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 pie crust ((I have a delicious one in my Staples Made Simple recipe book)); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup pure cane sugar, coconut sugar, or maple sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter ((cold and cut into small cubes))

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There’s nothing quite like the comforting feeling of a freshly baked apple pie. Its sweet, warm flavors remind me so much of the fall. While I love a classic lattice pie, let’s switch it up for something that (I dare say) is even more delicious – Dutch apple pie!

Without any further introduction, let’s dive into my simple and delicious Dutch apple crumble recipe that will be your new most-requested dessert from family and friends.

There’s a reason it’s a favorite.

While not every recipe I share is full of history, dutch apple pie has a really fun backstory!

Dutch apple pie, or “Appeltart” in Dutch, is a recipe that dates back to the Middle Ages. Unlike the traditional American apple pie with its double crust, the Dutch version is known for its buttery, crumbly streusel topping. This unique topping sets it apart, providing a delightful (and delicious) contrast in textures.

The use of apples in pies can be traced back to ancient Rome, but it was the Dutch who perfected this particular variant. Over the centuries, Dutch Apple Pie has become a beloved dessert worldwide and I cannot wait to share my recipe with you today.

Making the Perfect Pie Crust

A great pie starts with a great crust. While the filling and topping get most of the attention, the crust is equally important. For the best results, use a homemade pie crust like the one in my Staples Made Simple Recipe Book. The secret to a flaky crust is to keep your ingredients cold and not overwork the dough. After preparing, refrigerate the dough for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out. This helps to relax the gluten and makes it easier to handle.

Which Apples Are Best To Use for Dutch Apple Pie?

The type of apple you use can make a significant difference in your pie’s flavor and texture. Granny Smith apples are a popular choice because of their firm texture and tart flavor, which holds up well during baking. Honeycrisp apples are also excellent with their balance of sweetness and juiciness. For a more unique taste, mix different types of apples. Each variety brings a unique flavor, but the result is delicious.

The Secret to a Perfect Streusel Topping

The streusel topping is what makes a Dutch apple pie truly special. This crumbly mixture of flour, sugar, and butter adds a sweet, crunchy layer that compliments the soft apple filling. The key to a perfect streusel is using cold butter, cut into small cubes, and blending it with the flour and sugar until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This ensures that the topping bakes evenly, creating that signature crunch.

Tips for Baking and Serving

Baking a Dutch Apple Pie to perfection involves a few key steps. First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the pie dish on a baking sheet. This catches any potential spills and makes it easier to handle. Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. Let the pie cool on a wire rack before serving. This allows the filling to set, making it easier to slice and ensuring each piece holds together nicely.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), proper storage and reheating of the pie ensures it stays moist and delicious. Cover the pie with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place a slice in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. This helps to revive the crispness of the streusel topping and brings back the pie’s fresh-baked flavor.

INGREDIENTS:

PIE FILLING INGREDIENTS:

6 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples
1/2 cup pure cane sugar, coconut sugar, maple syrup or honey
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 pie crust (I have a delicious one in my Staples Made Simple recipe book, you can purchase here)

STREUSEL TOPPING INGREDIENTS:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup pure cane sugar, coconut sugar, or maple sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into small cubes)

INSTRUCTIONS

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish.
Prepare a pie crust, like my favorite buttermilk pie crust in my guide, or a recipe you like.
After making the crust, be sure to refrigerate for 30 minutes before assembling pie.
In a bowl, combine sliced apples, sugar of choice, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice for the filling.
In another bowl, mix flour and sugar of choice for the streusel topping. Add cold cubed butter and cut into crumbs.
Roll out the chilled dough and transfer to the pie dish.
Pour apple filling into the crust and sprinkle streusel topping over it.
Place the pie dish on a baking sheet and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and apples are tender.
Let the pie cool on a wire rack before serving. Enjoy!