Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert that tastes like a hug? Then look no further! This Apple Crumb Pie recipe takes inspiration from the classic Betty Crocker style, offering a delicious homemade treat that's surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary journey, this easy recipe will guide you to delicious success. Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
For the Crumb Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie plate. This simple step prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of your delicious pie.
Prepare the Apple Filling:
- In a large bowl, gently combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are evenly coated. This ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
- Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie plate. Dot the top with the small pieces of butter.
Make the Crumb Topping:
- In a separate bowl, combine the flour, oats, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Don't overmix; you want some larger pieces for texture.
Assemble and Bake:
- Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apple filling.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender. If the topping browns too quickly, loosely cover the edges of the pie with aluminum foil.
- Let the pie cool completely on a wire rack before slicing and serving. This allows the filling to set and prevents a messy serving experience.
Tips for the Best Apple Crumb Pie:
- Apple Selection: Use a combination of tart and sweet apples for the best flavor balance.
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing the crumb topping will result in a tough crust.
- Cooling Time: Allowing the pie to cool completely is crucial for easy slicing and a firmer texture.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra decadent treat.
Variations:
- Spiced it Up: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom to the filling for a warm, aromatic twist.
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the crumb topping for added crunch and flavor.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free all-purpose flour and gluten-free rolled oats for a gluten-free version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 18-20g
- Saturated Fat: 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: 45-50g
- Sugar: 25-30g
- Protein: 4-5g
This delicious apple crumb pie is a perfect example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It’s a guaranteed hit for any occasion, and a wonderful addition to your repertoire of homemade cooking. Enjoy every delicious bite of this comforting, classic dessert!