Name: Sweet Dutch Apple Pie with Irresistible Crumb Topping
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 330 min
Ingredients: 5 lbs Apples (Firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are best); 2 tbsp Lemon Juice (Prevents oxidation); 1/2 cup Sugar (Brown sugar can be used for extra depth); 1/2 cup Brown Sugar (Adds moisture and caramel notes); 1/3 cup All-Purpose Flour (Substitute cornstarch for a gluten-free option); 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt (Balances sweetness); 1 1/2 tsp Cinnamon (Use freshly ground for the best flavor); 3/4 tsp Nutmeg (Adjustable to your taste); 1/2 tsp Cardamom (Optional, adds complexity); 1/4 tsp Lemon Zest (Adds fresh citrus notes); 1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Creates the crumb texture); 1/3 cup Sugar (Sweetens the topping); 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt (Enhances flavor); 3/4 cup Melted Butter (Preferably Kerrygold)

As the leaves turn golden and the air gets crisp, my thoughts drift to a comforting slice of Sweet Dutch Apple Pie. This isn’t just any pie—it’s a warm embrace that fills your kitchen with the buttery aroma of cinnamon and sugar. What I love most about this recipe is its delightful twist: a crispy crumb topping that elevates the traditional pie experience, making it a true showstopper at any gathering. Plus, it’s family-friendly and surprisingly easy to whip up, meaning you can focus more on enjoying the moment and less on complicated techniques. Are you ready to bring a taste of autumn to your table? Let’s dive in!

Why is Dutch Apple Pie so special?

Comforting Aroma: Imagine the sweet scent of apples mingled with cinnamon wafting through your home, inviting everyone to the kitchen.
Irresistible Crumb Topping: The unique crumb topping offers a delightful crunch that complements the tender apple filling.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Whether for family gatherings or cozy dinners, this pie is guaranteed to satisfy even the pickiest eaters.
Time-Saving Recipe: Easily whip it up in a matter of hours, leaving you more time to enjoy with loved ones. If you’re seeking more heartwarming recipes, try Apple Zucchini Bread for another family favorite!
Flexible Variations: Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties or spices to create a pie that perfectly fits your taste. Enjoy it warm with whipped cream for an irresistible treat!

Sweet Dutch Apple Pie Ingredients

For the Filling
• 5 lbs Apples – Best choices are firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a perfect texture.
• 2 tbsp Lemon Juice – Prevents oxidation of the apples while adding a zesty brightness.
• 1/2 cup Sugar – Sweetens the filling; brown sugar can be used for extra depth.
• 1/2 cup Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and delightful caramel notes to the apples.
• 1/3 cup All-Purpose Flour – Acts as a thickener for the filling; substitute cornstarch for a gluten-free option.
• 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavors beautifully.
• 1 1/2 tsp Cinnamon – Warms the filling with spice; go for freshly ground for the best flavor.
• 3/4 tsp Nutmeg – Contributes an aromatic warmth that’s adjustable to your taste.
• 1/2 tsp Cardamom (optional) – Introduces a lovely complexity to the spice profile.
• 1/4 tsp Lemon Zest – Adds fresh citrus notes to brighten up the filling.

For the Crumb Topping
• 1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour – Creates the delightful crumb texture that makes this pie so special.
• 1/3 cup Sugar – Sweetens the topping perfectly.
• 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt – Enhances the flavor of the topping, making it irresistible.
• 3/4 cup Melted Butter (preferably Kerrygold) – Infuses richness into the topping; unsalted is best for precise control over flavor.

Enjoy your warm slice of Sweet Dutch Apple Pie that everyone will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sweet Dutch Apple Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust
Thaw your pie dough if frozen, roll it out to fit your pie dish, and carefully transfer it inside. Make sure to trim any excess dough hanging over the edges. Chill the crust in the refrigerator for 30 minutes; this reduces shrinkage during baking, ensuring a perfect base for your Sweet Dutch Apple Pie.

Step 2: Make Crumble Topping
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, sugar, and kosher salt for the crumble topping. Drizzle in the melted butter and mix the ingredients with your fingers or a fork until you have a crumbly texture. Once blended, refrigerate the topping for about 15-20 minutes to allow it to firm up before adding it to the pie.

Step 3: Prepare Apple Filling
Warm the lemon juice and zest in a skillet over medium heat, then slice and toss the apples in this mixture to prevent browning. Add the sugars, flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and optional cardamom, stirring until the apples are well coated. Cook for approximately 20 minutes or until the apples are tender but still hold their shape; cool in the fridge for 2 hours.

Step 4: Assemble Pie
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Once the oven is ready, remove your crust from the refrigerator and fill it with the cooled apple filling. Evenly sprinkle the chilled crumble topping over the apples, ensuring every section is covered to achieve that sought-after crunch.

Step 5: Bake the Pie
Blind bake the assembled pie in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then, reduce the heat to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 35-45 minutes. Look for a golden crust and bubbling filling as signals that your Sweet Dutch Apple Pie is perfectly baked.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
After baking, remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for at least 4 hours. This resting period helps the filling to set properly, making it easier to slice. Serve it warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat.

Expert Tips for Sweet Dutch Apple Pie

Perfect Apple Selection: Use firm varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to ensure a non-mushy filling. Avoid soft apples to maintain great texture.
Chill the Crust: Always chill your crust for 30 minutes before baking. This minimizes shrinkage and helps create a tender base for your Sweet Dutch Apple Pie.
Don’t Rush Cooling: Allow the pie to cool for at least 4 hours before slicing. This ensures the filling sets properly and keeps each slice looking perfect.
Watch the Topping: If the crumb topping browns too quickly, lightly cover it with foil during the last stages of baking to prevent burning.
Flavor Adjustments: Don’t hesitate to experiment with spices like ginger or nutmeg for a flavor twist that suits your family’s preferences!

What to Serve with Sweet Dutch Apple Pie

As the warmth of your Sweet Dutch Apple Pie fills the air, complement this delightful dessert with these perfect pairings that will elevate your gathering.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy contrast of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully against the warm pie, creating a classic combination that delights the senses.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light and airy texture, enhancing the spiced apple filling while keeping everything airy and delightful.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over each slice creates an indulgent touch, enhancing the natural sweetness of the apples and offering a luxurious experience.
Coffee or Tea: A cup of freshly brewed coffee or aromatic tea complements the warm spices in the pie, making every bite feel like a cozy hug.
Nutty Sage Biscotti: These crunchy biscuits add a lovely crunch and nuttiness, introducing a delightful texture and flavor contrast to the soft pie filling.
Cheddar Cheese: For an adventurous twist, pairing the pie with sharp cheddar creates a savory contrast that balances the sweetness, making it a unique dessert experience.
Spiced Apple Cider: Serve a glass of warm spiced apple cider alongside to amplify those fall flavors, turning your dessert into a celebratory drink experience.

With these pairings, your Sweet Dutch Apple Pie will be the centerpiece of a memorable meal that brings warmth and sweetness to every gathering.

Sweet Dutch Apple Pie Variations

Embrace creativity as you make this Sweet Dutch Apple Pie your own with fun variations and substitutions!

Nutty Crumble: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumble topping for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. It adds an extra layer of texture and richness that your family will love.
Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger for a warm, zesty surprise that complements the traditional flavors beautifully. This small addition can transform your pie into a whole new flavor experience.
Berry Infusion: Mix in 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries or cranberries along with the apples for a sweet-tart contrast that brightens up each bite. The burst of berries amidst the apples creates a vibrant color and taste that’s simply irresistible!
Maple Swirl: Replace half of the granulated sugar with pure maple syrup for a richer sweetness. This swap gives your pie a comforting autumnal flavor that pairs perfectly with holiday gatherings.
Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut oil or dairy-free margarine instead of butter in the crumble topping for a dairy-free version that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Your pie will still have the same delightful texture, without the dairy!
Citrusy Surprise: Add the zest of 1 orange to the filling for a refreshing citrus note that brightens up the sweetness of the apples. The zesty aroma complements the spices and enhances the overall flavor.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle a bit of caramel sauce over the warm pie before serving for a gooey, sweet addition that takes it to the next level. It’s a decadent touch that will wow your guests at any gathering!
**For more cozy recipes, check out my delicious Sweet Corn Wontons and flavorful Mojo Bowls Sweet—they’re sure to bring warmth and joy to your dining table!

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Dutch Apple Pies are a fantastic option for meal prep, making them perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the apple filling and crumble topping up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, cook the apple mixture as directed, cool it, and refrigerate it (this keeps all the flavors intact). The crumble topping can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for the same amount of time. When you’re ready to serve, simply assemble the pie in the crust and bake it as directed. This way, you’ll have a delicious homemade dessert with minimal effort, just as delightful as when freshly made!

How to Store and Freeze Sweet Dutch Apple Pie

Room Temperature: Keep the pie covered at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal freshness and flavor.

Fridge: If you have leftovers, store the Sweet Dutch Apple Pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This will retain its delicious taste and texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pie for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then cover with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a warm oven until heated through. This will restore the pie’s comforting aroma and crisp topping.

Sweet Dutch Apple Pie Recipe FAQs

What types of apples are best for this pie?
Absolutely! For a perfect filling, I recommend using firm apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. These apples maintain their texture and provide a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness. Avoid soft apples such as Red Delicious, as they can turn mushy and watery during baking.

How should I store leftover Sweet Dutch Apple Pie?
The pie keeps well at room temperature for up to 2 days when covered, keeping that delicious warm flavor intact. For longer storage, refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 5 days. If you want to store it for months, freeze it tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it will last up to 3 months.

Can I freeze Sweet Dutch Apple Pie?
Absolutely! To freeze the pie, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then cover it with aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat it in a warm oven until heated through—this will help restore its comforting aroma and crisp topping!

What if my topping turns too brown while baking?
Very! If you notice your crumble topping browning too quickly, simply cover it with a piece of aluminum foil for the last 10-15 minutes of baking. This will help to avoid burning while still allowing the filling to bubble and cook thoroughly.

Is this pie safe for pets?
Keep in mind that while apples are typically safe for pets, the added sugars and spices in this Sweet Dutch Apple Pie are not recommended for them. It’s best to keep it as a treat for your human family members instead!

How do I make sure the filling sets properly?
To ensure a well-set filling, allow the baked pie to cool at room temperature for at least 4 hours before slicing. This resting time helps the filling set and makes it easier to cut clean slices. If you’re patient with this step, you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous, sliceable pie!