Classic Dutch Apple Pie With a Crumbly Cinnamon Streusel Top

Meta Description: This Classic Dutch Apple Pie features tender spiced apples under a buttery crumb topping, a cozy alternative to a traditional double crust pie.

There is a reason Dutch Apple Pie has earned its own devoted following, that thick, buttery crumb topping turns a simple apple filling into something truly irresistible. This recipe skips the top crust entirely, letting a crunchy cinnamon streusel take center stage over layers of tender, spiced apples.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

• The buttery crumb topping adds a satisfying crunch to every single bite.
• Tender, spiced apples create a filling that tastes like pure comfort.
• Skipping the top crust makes this pie easier to assemble than a traditional double crust.
• The streusel stays crisp even after a day or two in the fridge.
• It pairs beautifully with a scoop of ice cream for the ultimate dessert.

Ingredients

For the crust

• 1.25 cups (155g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed, keeps the crust flaky
• 3 to 4 tablespoons ice water

For the apple filling

• 6 cups (about 900g) apples, peeled, cored, and sliced, I like a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp
• 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, this thickens the juices as it bakes
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, brightens the apple flavor
• 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the crumb topping

• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) cold unsalted butter, cubed, this creates the crumbly texture

Crockery and Time To Create

You will need a 9-inch pie dish, a rolling pin, two mixing bowls, and a pastry cutter or fork for the crumb topping. Prep time is about 30 minutes with a 30 minute chilling period, and baking takes 50 to 55 minutes. This recipe makes one pie, serving 8 people.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

• Granny Smith Apples: Braeburn or Jonagold apples work well if you prefer a milder tartness.
• All-Purpose Flour: a gluten free flour blend can be used for both the crust and the crumb topping.
• Brown Sugar: coconut sugar can be used in the topping for a deeper caramel note.
• Unsalted Butter: cold vegetable shortening can replace half the crust butter for extra flakiness.
• Ground Cinnamon: apple pie spice blend adds extra warmth if you want a spicier filling.
• Lemon Juice: apple cider vinegar adds a similar brightness if lemon is unavailable.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Crust In a bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and cut it in using a pastry cutter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. Slowly add the ice water, mixing just until the dough comes together.

Step 2: Chill the Dough Shape the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This resting time keeps the crust tender and easy to roll.

Step 3: Roll and Fit the Crust On a lightly floured surface, roll the chilled dough into a circle slightly larger than your pie dish. Transfer it into the dish, pressing gently into the bottom and up the sides, then crimp the edges.

Step 4: Prepare the Apple Filling In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until evenly coated. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes so the apples release some juice.

Step 5: Add the Filling Pour the apple mixture into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly and mounding it slightly in the center.

Step 6: Make the Crumb Topping In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture forms coarse, pea sized crumbs.

Step 7: Add the Crumb Topping Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apples, covering the filling completely so no fruit peeks through.

Step 8: Bake Until Golden Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 50 to 55 minutes, until the topping turns deep golden brown and the filling bubbles around the edges. Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing.

Pro Tips for Best Results

• Keep the butter cold in both the crust and the topping for the best texture.
• Slice the apples evenly so they cook at the same rate.
• Cover the edges with foil if the crust browns too quickly.
• Let the pie cool fully before slicing to avoid a runny filling.
• Use a baking sheet underneath to catch any bubbling juices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the chill time: this leads to a greasy, hard to roll dough, so always chill for at least 30 minutes.
• Overworking the crumb topping: this turns it into a paste instead of crumbs, so mix just until pea sized pieces form.
• Cutting too early: slicing while warm causes the filling to spill out, so wait until it has fully cooled.
• Overfilling with juice: draining excess liquid from the apples before assembling prevents a soggy bottom crust.

What to Serve With / Meal Pairing Ideas

• Vanilla ice cream: its cold creaminess pairs perfectly with the warm, spiced apples.
• Salted caramel sauce: a drizzle on top adds an extra layer of rich sweetness.
• Hot spiced tea: its warm spices echo the cinnamon and nutmeg in the pie.

Storage and Reheating

• Fridge: store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: wrap the baked pie tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: warm slices in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes to refresh the crisp topping.

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount Per Serving
Calories	340 kcal
Total Fat	16g
Saturated Fat	10g
Carbohydrates	48g
Sugars	27g
Fiber	3g
Protein	3g

Health Benefits

Apples bring a good dose of fiber and vitamin C to this dessert, supporting digestion and immune health even in a sweet treat. Cinnamon has natural antioxidant properties and may help support healthy blood sugar levels when eaten in moderation. Enjoyed as an occasional treat, this pie offers a bit of nourishment alongside its comforting flavor.

Conclusion

There is something so satisfying about breaking through that crisp, buttery crumb topping to find warm spiced apples waiting underneath, the kind of dessert that turns any gathering into something special. I hope this Dutch Apple Pie becomes a fall staple in your home, whether you are baking for a holiday table or simply craving something cozy. Give it a try, save the recipe, and share a slice with someone who deserves a truly homemade dessert.