Let’s talk about the ultimate comfort dessert: Apple Crumb Pie. It’s got all the cozy feels of a traditional apple pie but with a buttery, golden streusel topping that’s crunchy, sweet, and totally irresistible. No fiddling with a top crust—just load up the apples and sprinkle on that crumbly goodness. Perfect for holidays, potlucks, or a just-because weekend bake.
This pie is always a family favorite in our house, especially when served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Kids love helping toss the apples and sprinkle on the crumb topping, and you’ll love how incredibly easy it is to make from scratch!
What You’ll Need
For the Pie Filling:
- 6 cups peeled, sliced apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Crumb Topping:
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold and cubed
Other:
- 1 unbaked 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Pro Tips for Perfect Apple Crumb Pie
🍏 Use a mix of tart and sweet apples – it adds depth and balances the sweetness.
🧊 Keep butter cold for the crumb topping—it gives the best texture.
🥧 Pre-bake the crust for 8–10 minutes if you want extra crispness on the bottom.
👧 Let kids help sprinkle the crumb topping—it’s the most fun part!
🍦 Serve with ice cream or whipped cream to make it next level.
Tools You’ll Need
- 9-inch pie dish
- Mixing bowls
- Apple peeler/corer (optional but helpful)
- Pastry cutter or fork (for crumb topping)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spoon or spatula
- Oven mitts and cooling rack
Substitutions & Variations
🍐 Try pears instead of apples for a fall twist
🌾 Gluten-free version – Use GF flour blend for both filling and topping
🍋 Add zest of lemon for a brighter flavor
🧂 Add a pinch of salt to the crumb topping for balance
🍫 Want extra indulgence? Add a handful of toffee bits or chopped pecans to the topping!
Make-Ahead Tips
- Make the filling and topping ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days
- Freeze the unbaked pie (wrapped tightly) and bake straight from frozen, adding 15–20 extra minutes to the baking time
- Baked pie keeps in fridge for 3–4 days and reheats beautifully
How to Make Apple Crumb Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour.
- Set aside while you prepare the topping.
Step 2: Make the Crumb Topping
- In another bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and cinnamon.
- Add cold butter cubes and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend until crumbly.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Place your unbaked pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish.
- Pour in the apple filling and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the apples.
Step 4: Bake the Pie
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45–55 minutes, until topping is golden and apples are tender.
- If the topping browns too quickly, cover loosely with foil in the last 10 minutes.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
- Let cool at least 30–45 minutes before slicing (the filling sets as it cools).
- Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream!
Leftovers & Storage
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days
- Reheat slices in the microwave or oven for that fresh-from-the-oven warmth
- Can freeze baked pie slices (wrapped well) for up to 2 months
Final Thoughts
Apple Crumb Pie is the kind of dessert that never goes out of style. It’s easy, comforting, and absolutely packed with warm, cozy flavors. Perfect for a fall afternoon, Thanksgiving dessert table, or just a random Tuesday when you need something sweet.
💬 I’d love to hear how your pie turned out! Did you serve it with ice cream or add your own twist to the topping? Leave a comment and let’s swap baking stories! 🍎🥧💛
Leave a Reply