There’s something deeply comforting about the smell of freshly baked apple pie wafting through the kitchen — warm cinnamon, buttery crust, and that sweet-tart aroma of apples caramelizing in the oven. This Classic Apple Pie with Crumble Topping takes the timeless dessert we all love and gives it a rustic twist with a crunchy, buttery streusel topping. Instead of a traditional double crust, this pie features a tender pastry base filled with juicy spiced apples and finished with a golden crumb topping that adds texture and flavor in every bite. It’s cozy, homey, and the perfect dessert for any occasion — whether it’s a Sunday dinner, a festive holiday, or just a rainy afternoon craving something sweet and nostalgic.

Full Recipe

Ingredients

For the Pie Base:

• 1 ¼ cups (160 g) all-purpose flour

• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 2–3 tablespoons ice water

For the Apple Filling:

• 5 medium apples (about 700 g), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced

• ¼ cup (50 g) brown sugar

• 2 tablespoons white sugar

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon nutmeg

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon flour or cornstarch (for thickening)

For the Crumble Topping:

• ¾ cup (100 g) all-purpose flour

• ½ cup (100 g) brown sugar

• ½ teaspoon cinnamon

• ⅓ cup (75 g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed

Optional:

• A pinch of salt for balance

• Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving

Cooking Directions

1. Make the Pie Dough:
   In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and rub them into the flour using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Do not overwork the dough. Shape it into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Apple Filling:
   Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. In a large bowl, toss the apples with brown sugar, white sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch. Mix until all the slices are evenly coated. Set aside to let the flavors blend while you roll out the crust.

3. Roll and Fit the Dough:
   Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F). Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the chilled dough into a circle about ¼ inch thick. Carefully lift and place it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim any excess dough around the edges and crimp the sides if desired. Prick the bottom lightly with a fork to prevent bubbling.

4. Prepare the Crumble Topping:
   In another bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Add the cold butter and use your fingertips to rub it in until the mixture forms a coarse, crumbly texture. You want small, buttery lumps — that’s what gives the topping its irresistible crunch.

5. Assemble the Pie:
   Pour the apple filling into the prepared crust and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the apples, covering the surface completely. Don’t press it down too firmly; you want it to stay light and crumbly.

6. Bake the Pie:
   Place the pie on the middle rack and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling around the edges. If the top starts browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil during the last 10 minutes of baking.

7. Cool and Serve:
   Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set and makes serving easier. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for that classic touch.

Nutrients (Per Slice)

• Calories: 340 kcal

• Protein: 3 g

• Carbohydrates: 48 g

• Fat: 15 g

• Fiber: 3 g

• Sugar: 28 g

• Sodium: 120 mg

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Apple Pie with Crumble Topping is the best of both worlds — part traditional pie, part apple crumble. The flaky crust provides a buttery foundation, while the spiced apples create a soft, juicy center, and the crumble topping adds an irresistible crunch. It’s easy to make and doesn’t require the fuss of a top crust. Plus, it’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors. You’ll love how the crumble topping caramelizes slightly in the oven, giving it that extra depth and warmth. Whether you’re a baking pro or a beginner, this pie is foolproof, comforting, and absolutely delicious.

The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Dish

Apple pie has been an American classic for centuries, though its roots trace back to Europe. The first apple pies originated in England and the Netherlands, where spiced fruits were baked into pastries long before sugar was commonly used. The crumble topping, however, is a distinctly British invention that became popular during World War II when pastry ingredients were scarce. Combining these two traditions creates a perfect hybrid dessert — simple, rustic, and bursting with flavor. It’s a symbol of home baking, nostalgia, and everything cozy about dessert time.

Ingredient Spotlight

• Apples: Choose a mix of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor. Granny Smith gives that sharp bite, while Fuji or Honeycrisp bring sweetness and juiciness.

• Cinnamon & Nutmeg: The warm spices elevate the natural apple flavor and create that classic autumn aroma.

• Butter: Cold butter is key to both a flaky crust and a crisp crumble topping.

• Brown Sugar: Adds depth and a hint of caramel flavor that complements the apples beautifully.

• Lemon Juice: Keeps the apples bright and prevents them from turning brown while enhancing their tartness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover apple pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For the best texture, reheat slices in a preheated oven at 160°C (320°F) for 10–15 minutes to crisp up the topping again. You can also freeze the pie — either whole or sliced — for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the crumble soggy.

Common Variations to Try

• Add Nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans into the crumble for extra crunch.

• Caramel Apple Pie: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apples before adding the topping.

• Spiced Twist: Add a dash of allspice or cardamom for deeper flavor.

• Oat Crumble: Mix rolled oats into the topping for a heartier texture.

• Mini Pies: Make individual servings using muffin tins for a fun, portable dessert.

Pairing Recommendations

Nothing pairs better with apple pie than a creamy side or a hot drink. Try it with vanilla or cinnamon ice cream, whipped cream, or custard. For beverages, pair it with coffee, chai tea, or a glass of warm apple cider. During holidays, serve it with mulled wine for that extra festive feel.

Health Benefits

Apples are rich in fiber and antioxidants, particularly vitamin C and polyphenols, which help support digestion and immunity. Cinnamon helps regulate blood sugar levels, while the use of natural butter in moderation provides healthy fats that enhance nutrient absorption. While this dessert is indulgent, it’s still better than many processed sweets — and when enjoyed in moderation, it can be a wholesome treat that satisfies both the body and the soul.

Conclusion

This Classic Apple Pie with Crumble Topping is more than just dessert — it’s a warm, comforting hug in pie form. The combination of flaky crust, spiced apples, and buttery crumble makes every bite a perfect balance of textures and flavors. It’s easy to make, visually stunning, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving, a weekend family gathering, or just because you’re craving something sweet, this pie brings joy to the table every single time. One slice, and you’ll understand why apple pie has remained an all-time favorite across generations.