🍏 Introduction: A Cozy Classic You’ll Crave All Year Long
There’s something undeniably comforting about a freshly baked Apple Crumble Pie. Imagine this: the sweet aroma of cinnamon-spiced apples drifting through your kitchen, buttery crumble topping golden and crisp, and that first warm bite melting alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It’s more than just dessert — it’s a nostalgic experience wrapped in a flaky crust.
Whether you’re baking for a cozy fall evening, Thanksgiving gathering, or simply because it’s Wednesday and you deserve something delicious, this Apple Crumble Pie hits every note. It’s the best of both worlds — the classic comfort of traditional apple pie, elevated by a crumbly, buttery topping that’s impossible to resist.
In this recipe, I’ll guide you through every step to make a pie that’s not only show-stopping but foolproof — no soggy bottoms or bland fillings here. Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
🍎 What Is Apple Crumble Pie?
Apple Crumble Pie is the perfect marriage between two beloved desserts: traditional apple pie and fruit crumble. Instead of a top crust, this version is crowned with a golden, buttery streusel made of brown sugar, flour, chopped nuts, and melted butter. The result? A pie that’s as visually stunning as it is mouthwatering.
Unlike Dutch apple pie—which often includes a lattice or a simple oat-based topping—Apple Crumble Pie features a denser, richer crumble that crisps beautifully in the oven and locks in the juicy apple filling below. This pie is all about texture: flaky crust on the bottom, tender-spiced apples in the center, and a crumbly, crunchy topping that steals the show.
Best of all, it’s incredibly versatile. While it’s a seasonal star in fall and around Thanksgiving, this dessert fits in year-round thanks to the easy availability of apples. Serve it warm in the winter with a scoop of ice cream, or enjoy it chilled in summer with whipped cream. Either way, Apple Crumble Pie always delivers.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Apple Crumble Pie
There are a lot of apple pies out there — but Apple Crumble Pie stands in a league of its own. Here’s why this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your dessert rotation:
🍏 1. All About That Crumble
The crown jewel of this pie is the generous layer of brown sugar and walnut crumble. It adds just the right amount of crunch and sweetness without overpowering the apples.
🧈 2. Made From Scratch, Made With Love
From the buttery homemade pie crust to the fresh apple filling, every bite tastes like a labor of love — but without the stress. It’s easier than it looks!
🍎 3. Flavor That Screams Fall
This recipe features warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves — the holy trinity of autumn flavor. It’s like a cozy sweater in pie form.
🎉 4. Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re prepping for Thanksgiving or just need a weeknight pick-me-up, this pie fits right in. Serve it at potlucks, holiday dinners, or Sunday brunch.
🕒 5. Great for Make-Ahead Magic
You can prep every component in advance — crust, filling, and topping — or even freeze the entire pie for future cravings.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need for the Best Apple Crumble Pie
Making the ultimate Apple Crumble Pie starts with quality ingredients. This recipe uses fresh apples, warm spices, a flaky homemade crust, and a rich, buttery crumble topping — all working together to create the perfect bite.
🧁 Pie Crust (Bottom Layer)
- Homemade Pie Crust: Flaky, golden, and sturdy — it holds up beautifully under the juicy apple filling. Store-bought works in a pinch, but homemade tastes best.
👉 Pro Tip: Use our no-fail pie crust recipe for guaranteed success.
🍏 Apple Filling (Middle Layer)
- 8–10 cups apple slices (1/4-inch thick): About 5–6 large apples. A mix of Granny Smith, Fuji, and Honeycrisp offers sweet-tart balance.
- 2 Tbsp lemon juice: Keeps apples from browning and enhances flavor.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the apple juices as they bake.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Just enough to sweeten the tart apples.
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: Essential for that classic fall flavor.
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg & 1/4 tsp ground cloves: Adds depth and warmth.
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract: Brings it all together with a smooth finish.
🍯 Crumble Topping (Top Layer)
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar: Light or dark works — adds moisture and richness.
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour: Creates the structure of the crumble.
- 3/4 cup chopped walnuts: Adds nutty crunch; swap with pecans or oats if desired.
- 1 tsp cinnamon: Because more cinnamon is always a good idea.
- 5 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted: Binds the crumble and adds buttery flavor.
👩🍳 How to Make Apple Crumble Pie Step by Step
Follow these easy steps to create a show-stopping Apple Crumble Pie that’s crisp on top, juicy in the center, and flaky underneath. This recipe may look impressive, but it’s totally beginner-friendly.
1️⃣ Prepare the Pie Crust
Start by preparing your pie dough (use our homemade crust recipe or a store-bought one). Roll out one chilled dough disc into a 12-inch circle. Gently place it in a 9×2-inch deep-dish pie pan. Trim any excess dough and flute the edges for a decorative finish.
2️⃣ Make the Apple Filling
In a large mixing bowl, toss together:
- Apple slices
- Lemon juice
- Flour
- Granulated sugar
- Cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves
- Vanilla extract
Let this sit while the oven preheats. This step helps the apples release some of their juice, which keeps the crust from getting soggy.
3️⃣ Assemble the Pie
Spoon the apple mixture into the crust, leaving most of the juice behind in the bowl. You want a juicy pie — not a soupy one. Distribute the filling evenly across the crust.
4️⃣ Prepare the Crumble Topping
In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and chopped walnuts. Stir in the melted butter until a crumbly mixture forms. Sprinkle it evenly over the apples, pressing down gently.
5️⃣ Bake the Pie
Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips).
- Bake at 400°F (204°C) for 20 minutes.
- Then reduce the heat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for another 30–35 minutes.
👉 After the first 20 minutes, cover the edges with a pie crust shield or foil to prevent over-browning.
6️⃣ Cool Completely Before Serving
Let the Apple Crumble Pie cool at room temperature for at least 3 hours. This gives the filling time to set up properly, so your slices come out clean.
🧠 Pro Tips for the Perfect Apple Crumble Pie
Want to make a truly unforgettable Apple Crumble Pie? These expert baking tips will help you master the texture, flavor, and structure of this cozy dessert — so every slice is bakery-worthy.
🔪 1. Use Multiple Apple Varieties
Using just one type of apple can make your Apple Crumble Pie flat in flavor. Try combining Granny Smith for tartness with Fuji or Honeycrisp for natural sweetness and juiciness. This blend adds texture and contrast.
💧 2. Leave the Juice Behind
After tossing your apple filling with sugar and spices, you’ll notice juice pooling at the bottom of the bowl. Resist the urge to pour it in — draining excess juice prevents a soggy crust and keeps your Apple Crumble Pie perfectly set.
🥶 3. Keep the Dough Cold
Chilled dough = flakier crust. Always refrigerate your pie crust before baking. A cold base helps support the weight of the apples and crumble, making your Apple Crumble Pie easier to slice.
🥄 4. Don’t Overmix the Crumble
The crumble topping should stay chunky and loose. Overmixing makes it dense and dry. For the perfect topping on your Apple Crumble Pie, stir just until the ingredients are combined and clumping slightly.
🔥 5. Use a Pie Shield for Even Baking
The crust edges of your Apple Crumble Pie can darken too quickly. A pie shield or a simple ring of foil helps the entire pie bake evenly, giving you a golden crumble and a tender, flaky crust.
🕰️ 6. Cooling is Crucial
Even though it smells amazing right out of the oven, your Apple Crumble Pie needs time to rest. Let it cool for at least 3 hours to allow the filling to firm up and slice cleanly.
🍨 7. Serve It with Something Creamy
Vanilla ice cream, caramel drizzle, or homemade whipped cream — they all complement the warm spice and flaky texture of your Apple Crumble Pie. It’s the kind of dessert that disappears fast.
🔄 Variations: Make This Apple Crumble Pie Your Own
One of the best things about Apple Crumble Pie is how customizable it is. Whether you’re working around dietary restrictions or just feeling adventurous, these creative variations offer new ways to enjoy this classic dessert.
🍯 1. Salted Caramel Apple Crumble Pie
Drizzle homemade salted caramel sauce over the apple filling before adding the crumble topping. Bake as usual, then add more caramel just before serving. This sweet-and-salty twist takes your Apple Crumble Pie to a whole new level.
🍁 2. Maple Walnut Apple Crumble Pie
Replace the brown sugar in the crumble with maple sugar or a mix of brown sugar and real maple syrup. It adds deep, earthy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the apples and walnuts in this Apple Crumble Pie recipe.
🌾 3. Gluten-Free Apple Crumble Pie
Use a gluten-free flour blend for both the crust and crumble. Make sure your oats (if you use them in the topping) are certified gluten-free. The result? A gluten-free Apple Crumble Pie that tastes just as indulgent as the original.
🥥 4. Coconut Crumble Topping
Add shredded coconut to the crumble for a tropical flair. It creates a toasted, slightly chewy texture on top of your Apple Crumble Pie, adding unexpected depth without overpowering the apples.
🥜 5. Nut-Free Version
Allergic to nuts? Just leave out the walnuts in the crumble topping. You can sub in rolled oats or sunflower seeds for texture and still get a crunchy, delicious finish on your Apple Crumble Pie.
🍦 Bonus Serving Ideas:
- Top with bourbon whipped cream for an adult twist.
- Add a scoop of cinnamon ice cream for double spice.
- Serve chilled for a summer-ready version of Apple Crumble Pie.
Read Also: Apple Cinnamon Baked Oatmeal Cups: 7 Irresistible Reasons to Try
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Crumble Pie
Still have questions about making the perfect Apple Crumble Pie? These answers cover everything from storage to ingredient swaps, so you can bake with confidence.
1. What’s the best type of apple to use?
A mix of tart and sweet apples works best. Try Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady for a balanced, flavorful filling in your Apple Crumble Pie.
2. Can I use store-bought pie crust?
Yes! While homemade crust adds amazing flavor and texture, a good-quality store-bought crust is a great shortcut for a quicker Apple Crumble Pie.
3. Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can bake the full pie up to a day in advance. Just let it cool completely, then cover and store at room temperature. This makes Apple Crumble Pie perfect for holidays and entertaining.
4. Can I freeze Apple Crumble Pie?
Yes. Once fully baked and cooled, wrap your Apple Crumble Pie tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bring to room temperature before serving.
5. Why is my crumble topping too soft?
Too much butter or not enough flour can cause a soggy crumble. Make sure to measure carefully and bake the Apple Crumble Pie long enough for the topping to crisp.
6. Can I make this pie vegan?
Yes! Use a vegan pie crust and plant-based butter for the crumble. Swap honey or caramel for maple syrup if needed. You’ll still get a delicious, fully vegan Apple Crumble Pie.
7. How do I store leftovers?
Cover leftover Apple Crumble Pie tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat slices in the oven or enjoy them chilled.
8. Can I use other fruit in this pie?
You can! Pears, cranberries, or even blackberries can be mixed with apples to add variety. Just keep the apple base for structure and sweetness.
9. How do I keep the bottom crust from getting soggy?
Leave excess juice from the apple mixture in the bowl before filling the crust, and bake the Apple Crumble Pie on a lower rack for better bottom heat.
🥧 Conclusion: Why This Apple Crumble Pie Deserves a Spot on Your Table
Whether you’re baking for a holiday, a potluck, or a quiet weekend at home, this Apple Crumble Pie is the kind of dessert that never fails to impress. With its flaky crust, perfectly spiced apple filling, and buttery walnut crumble, it’s everything you want in a cozy, made-from-scratch pie.
Easy enough for beginners but impressive enough for special occasions, this Apple Crumble Pie recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again. It’s warm, nostalgic, and just sweet enough — the ultimate comfort dessert in every sense.
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Read Also: Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal Cookies – 5 Irresistible Reasons to Bake Today
Apple Crumble Pie: 7 Irresistible Secrets for the Best Fall Dessert
- Total Time: ~ 6 hours 50 minutes
- Yield: One 9‑inch pie 1x
Description
A deep‑dish apple crumble pie with a thick, buttery crumble topping and juicy spiced apples baked in a flaky crust. Perfect for fall and cozy gatherings, this dessert offers a balance of tart and sweet apples, warm spices, and crunchy walnuts—served best with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
1 (homemade) pie crust disc (or store‑bought if preferred)
Apple Filling
8‑10 cups apple slices (about 5‑6 large apples; mix varieties such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Pink Lady)
2 Tbsp lemon juice
¼ cup all‑purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
½ cup granulated sugar
1½ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
¼ tsp ground cloves
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Crumble Topping
½ cup packed light or dark brown sugar
¾ cup all‑purpose flour
¾ cup chopped walnuts
1 tsp ground cinnamon
5 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
Instructions
Prepare the pie crust through step 5 of your crust recipe. (Chill dough as needed.)
In a large bowl, combine apples, lemon juice, flour, cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until evenly coated. Let the mixture rest while the oven preheats (to help apples release some juice).
Preheat oven to 400°F (204°C). Roll out chilled dough into a 12‑inch circle; carefully place into a 9×2‑inch pie dish. Trim excess and flute edges.
Spoon apple filling into the crust, leaving most of the liquid behind in the bowl.
Make crumble topping: in a medium bowl, mix brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, walnuts, then stir in melted butter until crumbly. Sprinkle the crumble mixture evenly over apples.
Place pie on a baking sheet. Bake in oven at 400°F for 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, reduce heat to 375°F (190°C) and bake an additional 30‑35 minutes. (Use a pie crust shield or foil over edges after the first 20 minutes to prevent over‑browning.)
Allow the pie to cool for 3 full hours at room temperature before cutting and serving. Serve with vanilla ice cream if desired.
Notes
Make Ahead & Freezing: Pie crust dough can be made ahead and refrigerated up to 5 days or frozen up to 3 months.
Filled & baked pie freezes well for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in fridge and bring to room temperature before serving.
Prepared filling (unbaked) can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Use multiple apple varieties for best flavor balance.
To avoid soggy crust, leave most juice in bowl before filling crust.
- Prep Time: ~ 3 hours (includes chilling + cooling)
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert, Pie
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Fall / Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (assuming 8 slices per pie)
- Calories: ~ 450‑550 kcal
- Sugar: ~ 25‑35 g
- Sodium: ~ 200‑250 mg
- Fat: ~ 25‑30 g
- Saturated Fat: ~ 12‑15 g
- Unsaturated Fat: ~ (rest of fat; predominately from walnuts & butter) ≈ 10‑15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: ~ 65‑75 g
- Fiber: ~ 4‑6 g
- Protein: ~ 4‑6 g
- Cholesterol: ~ 40‑60 mg