Apple crumble pie is a classic dessert loved by many for its sweet, tart, and crunchy combination. It pairs the juicy, tangy flavors of apples with a buttery, crisp crumble topping that adds texture and depth to every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make a perfect apple crumble pie. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a dessert that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Read on for tips, tricks, and step-by-step instructions that will guarantee your apple crumble pie turns out flawlessly every time.
What Is Apple Crumble Pie?
Apple crumble pie is a variation of traditional apple pie, but instead of a second layer of crust on top, it features a crumble made of butter, flour, sugar, and sometimes oats or nuts. This topping bakes into a crisp, golden layer, offering a delightful contrast to the soft, spiced apples underneath. It's the perfect combination of warm, tender fruit and crunchy, buttery goodness. Unlike a regular double-crust pie, the crumble adds a rustic, homemade charm while delivering just as much flavor.
Ingredients List for Apple Crumble Pie
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients. A well-prepared baker is halfway to success! Here’s a breakdown of what you'll need for both the filling and the crumble topping:
For the Pie Filling:
- 6–7 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (to thicken the filling)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (to prevent apples from browning and to enhance flavor)
- 1 pre-made pie crust (or make your own if you're up for it!)
For the Crumble Topping:
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup rolled oats (optional for added texture)
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter (cold and cut into small cubes)
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Substitutions and Variations
Apple crumble pie is a versatile recipe, and there are several ways you can adapt it based on your dietary needs or ingredient availability. Here are a few ideas for substitutions and variations:
- Apples: If you don't have Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples, try using Fuji, Gala, or Golden Delicious. For a more complex flavor, use a mix of apple varieties.
- Sugar Alternatives: You can substitute granulated sugar with coconut sugar or use a sugar substitute like Stevia or Monk fruit for a lower-sugar version.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend for both the pie filling and crumble topping, and opt for gluten-free oats if you're adding them to the topping.
- Vegan Variation: Replace the butter with a vegan margarine or coconut oil, and ensure your pie crust is made without dairy or eggs.
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the crumble for extra crunch and flavor.
- Spices: While cinnamon and nutmeg are classic choices, you can experiment with cardamom, allspice, or even a hint of ginger to give the pie a unique flavor profile.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Ready to make your apple crumble pie? Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure your pie comes out perfectly golden and delicious.

1. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you're using a homemade pie crust, this is also the time to roll it out and press it into a 9-inch pie dish. If you’re using a store-bought crust, simply unroll it and press it gently into the pie dish.
2. Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and slice your apples into ¼-inch thick slices. You want the slices to be uniform in size so they cook evenly. Toss the sliced apples in a large bowl with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. This mixture will create a deliciously spiced and sweet filling that thickens as it bakes.
3. Make the Crumble Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, oats (if using), granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. The butter should still be in small, pea-sized pieces to ensure the crumble bakes up crunchy and delicious.
4. Assemble the Pie
Pour the apple filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the apples, making sure to cover them completely. The thick layer of crumble is what makes this dessert so irresistible!
5. Bake the Pie
Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crumble is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling. If the crumble is browning too quickly, you can loosely cover the pie with foil halfway through the baking process.
6. Cool Before Serving
Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 1–2 hours before slicing. This cooling period allows the filling to set and makes it easier to slice the pie cleanly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making an apple crumble pie is relatively straightforward, but there are a few common mistakes to watch out for:
- Overfilling the Pie: Resist the urge to overstuff the pie with apples. While it may seem like more is better, too many apples can cause the filling to overflow and make a mess in your oven.
- Undercooked Apples: If your apple slices are too thick or the pie doesn’t bake long enough, you could end up with undercooked, crunchy apples. Make sure to slice the apples thinly and bake for the full recommended time.
- Burning the Crumble: Keep an eye on the crumble topping. If it starts to brown too quickly, cover the pie with foil to prevent it from burning before the apples are fully cooked.
- Not Letting the Pie Cool: It’s tempting to dig in as soon as the pie comes out of the oven, but cutting into it too soon can result in a runny filling. Let the pie cool to give the filling time to set.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Now that your apple crumble pie is baked to perfection, it’s time to serve it up in style. Whether you're making it for a family dinner or a holiday gathering, presentation matters.
How to Serve Apple Crumble Pie
Apple crumble pie can be served warm, at room temperature, or even chilled, depending on your preference. Here are a few serving suggestions:
- Classic: Serve a warm slice of apple crumble pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the hot pie and the cold ice cream is heavenly.
- With Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that balances out the richness of the pie.
- Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top of each slice before serving.
Presentation Ideas for Apple Crumble Pie
Presentation is key, especially if you're serving this dessert to guests. Here are a few ideas to make your pie look as good as it tastes:
- Rustic Style: Leave the pie as-is for a rustic, homemade look. The uneven, golden-brown crumble gives the pie a charming, down-to-earth appeal.
- Garnish with Fresh Apples: Add thin apple slices, or even dehydrated apple chips, around the pie for a decorative touch.
- Sprinkle Powdered Sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar can give the pie a festive, elegant finish, especially if you're serving it for a holiday gathering.
Apple Crumble Pie Recipe Tips
Here are a few additional tips to ensure your apple crumble pie turns out perfectly every time:
- Use Cold Butter: Cold butter is crucial for a flaky crumble topping. If the butter is too soft, the crumble may turn greasy instead of crisping up properly.
- Add Lemon Zest: For an extra burst of fresh flavor, add a little lemon zest to the apple filling.
- Make Ahead: Apple crumble pie can be made a day in advance and stored at room temperature. If you want to serve it warm, simply reheat it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I freeze apple crumble pie? Yes! You can freeze the pie either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the pie but don’t bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. If freezing after baking, wrap the cooled pie in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.
2. What are the best apples to use for apple crumble pie? Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, and Fuji apples are all excellent choices. Granny Smith apples are tart and firm, holding up well during baking, while Honeycrisp adds a nice sweetness. Mixing apple varieties can give your pie more complexity.
3. Can I make the crumble topping ahead of time? Yes, the crumble topping can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to bake the pie, sprinkle the topping directly onto the apples and bake.
Conclusion
Apple crumble pie is the perfect dessert for any occasion, combining the best of both worlds: a deliciously spiced apple filling and a buttery, crunchy topping. With a few simple ingredients and the tips shared in this guide, you'll be able to whip up a pie that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re serving it warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoying it on its own, apple crumble pie is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dessert that never disappoints. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and bake the ultimate apple crumble pie today!
PrintApple Crumble Pie Recipe
This classic apple crumble pie recipe combines sweet, juicy apples with a buttery crumble topping for the ultimate dessert. Perfect for fall gatherings or a comforting treat, this apple pie is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Enjoy it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- Pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 6-7 apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and sliced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tbsp flour
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup cold butter, cubed
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish.
- In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and 1 tablespoon flour. Set aside.
- In another bowl, combine brown sugar, ½ cup flour, and cold butter to form a crumbly topping.
- Pour the apple mixture into the pie crust and evenly distribute the crumble topping.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Let cool before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of ginger or cloves to the apple filling.
- Serve with whipped cream or ice cream for a classic pairing.
- Best enjoyed warm, but can be stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (⅛ pie)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 230mg
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