Growing up, apple crisp pie was always the centerpiece of our family’s autumn celebrations. The scent of cinnamon and baked apples would fill the air, signaling the start of cozy sweater weather and bonfire season. I can still picture myself as a little kid, watching my grandma carefully peel and slice the apples, her hands moving with the practiced precision of someone who had perfected this apple crisp pie recipe over the years.
There was something so comforting about gathering around the table, each of us savoring that first warm, gooey bite, the crumbly topping mingling with the sweet, syrupy fruit. It was more than just a dessert – it was a tradition, a way to connect with my loved ones and celebrate the changing of the seasons. And to this day, whenever I smell that familiar aroma, it takes me right back to those precious moments.
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Why This apple crisp pie Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
That’s why I’m so excited to share my grandma’s classic apple crisp pie recipe with you. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures, with a buttery, crunchy topping that complements the soft, caramelized apples to perfection. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, which means you can whip up this crowd-pleasing dessert anytime the craving strikes.
The Secret Behind Perfect apple crisp pie
The secret to this apple crisp pie’s success lies in the way the ingredients are layered and baked. By pre-cooking the apple filling, you ensure that the fruit is perfectly tender and infused with warm spices before it even hits the oven. And the unique combination of oats, flour, and brown sugar in the topping creates a delightfully crisp and nutty texture that simply can’t be beaten.
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Mouthwatering 30-Minute Apple Crisp Pie
- Total Time: 65
- Yield: 8
Description
Indulge in the perfect balance of sweet apples and crunchy topping with this easy-to-make Apple Crisp Pie. Featuring a buttery crust, tender apple filling, and a golden-brown crumble topping, this comforting dessert is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients
– 1 9-inch pie crust, homemade or store-bought
– 6 cups peeled, sliced apples (about 6-8 medium apples)
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cubed
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions
1. 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. 2. In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, brown sugar, 1/4 cup of the flour, and the cinnamon. Toss to coat the apples evenly.
3. 3. Unroll the pie crust and press it into a 9-inch pie plate. Crimp the edges to create a decorative border.
4. 4. Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust.
5. 5. In a separate bowl, combine the remaining 1/4 cup flour, oats, and cubed butter. Use a fork or your fingers to mix and crumble the ingredients until a coarse, crumbly mixture forms.
6. 6. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple filling.
7. 7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden-brown and the filling is bubbling.
8. 8. Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.
Notes
For a deeper apple flavor, try using a mix of different apple varieties. The crumble topping can also be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Prep Time: 30
- Cook Time: 35
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this apple crisp pie, you’ll need:
- Granny Smith apples: These tart, firm apples hold their shape beautifully during baking, and their flavor pairs wonderfully with the other ingredients.
- Granulated sugar: For sweetening the apple filling.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds that classic, cozy spice flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Both in the filling and the crisp topping, for richness and texture.
- All-purpose flour: Helps to thicken the apple filling and create the perfect crumbly topping.
- Old-fashioned oats: Provides a wonderful chewy, nutty element to the crisp.
- Brown sugar: Deepens the flavor of the topping and gives it a caramelized crunch.
Step-by-Step apple crisp pie Instructions
Preparing Your apple crisp pie is a straightforward process that yields phenomenal results. You’ll need about an hour and a half from start to finish, and the only equipment required is a mixing bowl, a pie dish, and a baking sheet.
1- Begin by peeling, coring, and slicing the Granny Smith apples. In a large saucepan, combine the apple slices, granulated sugar, and cinnamon. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and the juices have thickened, about 15-20 minutes.
2- While the apple filling is cooking, make the crisp topping. In a medium bowl, use your fingers to mix together the flour, oats, brown sugar, and cold cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3- Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spread the cooked apple filling into a 9-inch pie dish, then top evenly with the crisp topping.
4- Bake the apple crisp pie for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling at the edges. Keep an eye on it towards the end to ensure the topping doesn’t burn.
5- Allow the pie to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This will give the filling a chance to set up and the topping to crisp up further.
6- Serve your delicious apple crisp pie warm, either on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Enjoy!
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your apple crisp pie turns out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips:
– Use a mix of apple varieties for more complex flavor. Granny Smiths are great for their tartness, but a few sweeter apples like Honeycrisps or Galas will balance it out nicely.
– Don’t skip the pre-cooking step for the filling – it really makes a difference in the final texture.
– Be careful not to overmix the topping, or it can become tough and dense. Use a light touch and stop as soon as the ingredients are combined.
– Keep a close eye on the pie towards the end of baking to prevent the topping from burning. Cover it loosely with foil if it’s browning too quickly.
Serving and Storing Your apple crisp pie
Perfect Pairings for apple crisp pie
This apple crisp pie is the perfect dessert for all sorts of cozy autumn gatherings. Serve it up at Thanksgiving or Christmas, or enjoy it as a special treat on a chilly evening with the family. It also makes a wonderful potluck contribution or hostess gift.
As for pairings, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream are classic companions that can’t be beaten. For a non-dairy option, try serving it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of chopped toasted nuts. And don’t forget the coffee or a warm mug of apple cider – the flavors are a match made in heaven.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Luckily, this apple crisp pie keeps well, so you can make it in advance and enjoy it over several days. Once it has cooled completely, simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days.
If you want to get a head start, you can prepare the apple filling and the crisp topping separately up to 2 days ahead of time. Then, when you’re ready to bake, simply assemble the pie and pop it in the oven. This makes for a super quick and easy dessert on busy days.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for apple crisp pie
Creative apple crisp pie Variations
While this classic apple crisp pie recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, there are endless ways to put your own spin on it. Try swapping in different apple varieties, like Honeycrisps or Pink Ladies, for a twist on the flavor profile. You could also add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for extra crunch and nutty goodness.
For a seasonal variation, consider using pears or cranberries in place of some of the apples. Or, mix in a dash of bourbon or a splash of apple brandy to really amp up the autumnal vibes. The possibilities are endless!
Making apple crisp pie Diet-Friendly
If you’re looking to make this apple crisp pie a bit more diet-friendly, there are a few easy swaps you can try. For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free all-purpose flour and certified gluten-free oats in the topping. To make it vegan, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, like coconut oil or vegan margarine.
And for a lower-carb take, you can use a sugar substitute like erythritol or monk fruit sweetener in both the filling and the topping. Just be sure to adjust the amounts accordingly, as these sweeteners can be more potent than regular sugar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of apple in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While Granny Smiths are the classic choice, you can definitely experiment with other varieties. Honeycrisps, Galas, or a mix of tart and sweet apples will all work well. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the apples you use.
Q: How do I know when the apple crisp pie is done baking?
A: You’ll know the apple crisp pie is ready when the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling at the edges. Give it a gentle shake – the center should still have a slight jiggle, but the edges should be set. If the top is browning too quickly, you can loosely cover it with foil to prevent burning.
Q: Can I make this apple crisp pie ahead of time?
A: Yes, this dessert is perfect for making in advance! You can prepare the filling and topping separately up to 2 days ahead, then assemble and bake the pie when you’re ready to serve. Alternatively, you can bake the entire pie and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Q: How many people does this apple crisp pie serve?
A: This recipe makes one 9-inch pie, which should serve 8-10 people generously. If you’re feeding a larger crowd, you can easily double the ingredients and bake it in a 13×9-inch baking dish.
Q: What if my apple crisp pie turns out soggy?
A: If your apple crisp pie ends up with a soggy bottom or filling, there are a few possible culprits. Make sure you’re using Granny Smith or other firm, tart apples that can withstand the long baking time. You can also try pre-cooking the filling for a bit longer to evaporate more of the juices. And be sure not to overfill the pie dish, as excess liquid can lead to sogginess.
Conclusion
This apple crisp pie is truly a fall classic that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With its perfectly spiced, tender apples and irresistibly crisp, buttery topping, it’s a dessert that checks all the boxes. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just because the craving strikes, I know you and your loved ones are going to devour every last bite.
So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds (and thirds!). And don’t forget to let me know how it turns out – I love hearing from readers and seeing your beautiful creations. Enjoy!
