Apple Crumble Pie Recipe

I absolutely love this Apple Crumble Pie Recipe because it strikes the perfect balance between a classic pie and a comforting crumble topping. The juicy, lightly spiced apples nestled under a buttery, crunchy crumble make every bite so satisfying. Whenever I want a dessert that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, this is my go-to.

You’ll find that this pie works beautifully for cozy fall gatherings or anytime you crave something homemade and heartfelt. It’s not only delicious but also rewarding to make, especially when you see how the crumble topping turns golden and crisp while the apples bubble deliciously beneath. Trust me, this Apple Crumble Pie Recipe is worth every minute you put into it.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Apple Crumble Pie Recipe comes from a simple list of well-chosen ingredients. Picking the right apples and balancing the spices and sugars really makes the filling sing, while the crumble topping’s walnuts and butter add that irresistible crunch.

• Basic pie dough: I like to use a homemade version for flakiness, but store-bought works fine when you’re short on time.
• Apples: A mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp gives a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness.
• Lemon juice: Keeps the apples from browning and adds a subtle tang.
• Brown sugar: Adds depth and caramel-like notes, especially in the crumble topping.
• All-purpose flour: Helps thicken the apple filling and forms the base of the crumble.
• Cinnamon: Classic warming spice that complements the apples beautifully.
• Nutmeg (optional): Just a hint adds warmth without overpowering.
• Kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors throughout.
• Walnuts: They add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor in the crumble topping.
• Allspice (optional): Adds complexity along with cinnamon, especially lovely in fall desserts.
• Butter: Melted butter in the topping binds the crumble and makes it perfectly crispy.

Variations

One of the best parts about this Apple Crumble Pie Recipe is how easy it is to make your own tweaks. I often switch up the nuts or add a splash of vanilla depending on the mood — and you should totally make it your own!

• Nut-Free: I sometimes skip walnuts and add extra oats for crunch instead when serving nut-sensitive guests.
• Spice It Up: Adding ground ginger or cardamom gives a beautiful twist that surprises everyone.
• Healthy Boost: Swap brown sugar for coconut sugar and use a whole wheat pie crust for a rustic, nuttier flavor.
• Extra Fruity: Mix in some chopped pears or cranberries for a seasonal upgrade that adds color and flavor.

How to Make Apple Crumble Pie Recipe

Step 1: Chill and Prep Your Crust

Start by preheating your oven to 425º and placing a baking sheet on the middle rack — this helps the bottom crust bake evenly and catches drips. Roll out your pie dough on a lightly floured surface to about 12 inches in diameter. When you gently place it into your pie dish, don’t stretch it; you want the dough to sit naturally to avoid shrinkage later. Trim the edges to leave about an inch of overhang, then fold it under itself and crimp for a nice finish. Pop the crust in the fridge for 40 minutes or freezer for 20 to firm it up, which helps it keep its shape when baking.

Step 2: Toss the Apples and Fill the Pie

While your crust chills, mix the apples with lemon juice to keep them fresh and vibrant. Stir in the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg if you like, and salt — this combo adds sweetness, thickens the filling as it cooks, and brings out the warm spices. Transfer the apple mixture evenly to the chilled crust, then place the pie on your preheated baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes to get the filling bubbling and the crust starting to set.

Step 3: Make and Add the Crumble Topping

Next up is the crumble topping — one of my favorite parts! Whisk together flour, brown sugar, walnuts, salt, cinnamon, and allspice if you’re using it. Stir in melted butter until the mixture forms coarse crumbs that will turn perfectly crispy in the oven. Take your pie out after 20 minutes, carefully spoon the crumble over the top, then lower the oven temperature to 375º. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes more, watching for a golden crust and topping. If you notice the crust getting too dark, loosely cover it with foil to protect it.

Step 4: Cool and Serve

This is the tough part — waiting! Let the pie cool to room temperature for at least 3 hours so the filling can set properly. I usually make this earlier in the day or the day before to allow enough time. Once it’s fully cooled, slice and enjoy the layers of tender apples and crunchy sweetness in every forkful.

How to Serve Apple Crumble Pie Recipe

Garnishes

I love serving this pie with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream — the creaminess pairs perfectly with the warm crumble and makes it feel extra special. A sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the crumble just before baking adds a subtle contrast that really elevates the flavors.

Side Dishes

When I make this Apple Crumble Pie Recipe for a meal, I like to keep the sides simple — maybe a sharp cheddar cheese plate or some roasted nuts complement the pie’s sweetness surprisingly well. For a cozy brunch, grilled sausages or a creamy custard add a nice savory or rich contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I sometimes serve the pie in individual ramekins to create personal-sized crumble pies, which is always a hit with guests. Another fun idea is to layer the crumble topping on top of a shortbread crust base for an easy twist on presentation and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I usually cover leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or foil and store it in the fridge. It keeps well for 3-4 days, and I love that the flavors develop even more after resting overnight.

Freezing

If I want to save some for later, I freeze the pie uncovered for a few hours first, then wrap it tightly in foil and place it in a freezer bag. Freezing this Apple Crumble Pie Recipe doesn’t compromise much on texture, especially if you plan to reheat it well.

Reheating

The best way I’ve found to reheat leftovers is in the oven at 350º for about 15-20 minutes. This revives the crust’s crispness and warms the filling without making it soggy like a microwave can.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Apple Crumble Pie Recipe holds a special place in my baking repertoire because it’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. The combination of flaky crust, tender and tangy apples, and that golden crumble topping just hits every comfort-food note perfectly. I really encourage you to give it a try, whether for a weekend treat or a holiday dessert — your kitchen will smell amazing and your family will thank you.

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