Indulge in the warmth of homemade Dutch apple pie, a traditional dessert that captures the essence of fall. With its sweet and spiced apple filling, topped with a buttery crumb crust, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, it offers the ideal balance of flavors and textures. Let’s dive into how you can create this delicious treat in your own kitchen!
Ingredients
– 6 cups of peeled and sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 recipe for pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup cold butter, cubed
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 8 servings. Preparation takes about 30 minutes, with an additional baking time of 45-50 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving contains approximately 320 calories, 14g of fat, 45g of carbohydrates, 3g of protein, and 2g of fiber. This nutritional value is based on a serving size of one slice.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour.
3. Toss the mixture until apples are evenly coated.
4. Roll out half of the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate.
5. Pour the apple mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly.
6. In another bowl, mix brown sugar, oats, and cubed butter until crumbly.
7. Sprinkle the crumb mixture over the apples.
8. Roll out the second half of the crust and cover the pie, sealing the edges.
9. Cut slits in the top crust for ventilation.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, until golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute Granny Smith apples with other tart varieties like Braeburn or Jonagold. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour for the topping and a gluten-free pie crust.
Serving and Pairings
Dutch apple pie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It also complements a warm cup of spiced cider or coffee, enhancing the cozy experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Dutch apple pie can also be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Avoid overcooking the apples; they should be tender but not mushy.
– Ensure your pie crust is cold before rolling it out.
– Don’t forget to vent the top crust to allow steam to escape.
– Use fresh spices for the best flavor.
– Allow the pie to cool before slicing to maintain its shape.
– Check for doneness by observing the crust color.
– Measure ingredients accurately for the best results.
Helpful Tips
– Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for depth of flavor.
– Always taste the apple filling before baking to adjust sweetness.
– For a little extra flavor, add a splash of vanilla extract to the apples.
– Brush the crust with egg wash for a golden finish.
– Serve the pie warm for the best taste experience.
FAQs
Can I use frozen apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen apples, but make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture in the pie.
What type of apples are best for Dutch apple pie?
A mix of sweet and tart apples works best; Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are popular choices.
How can I make my pie crust flakier?
Ensure your butter is cold and handle the dough as little as possible to keep it light and flaky.
Can I prepare the pie in advance?
Absolutely! Assemble the pie and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking.
Is it necessary to cover the pie while baking?
Cover the edges with foil if they brown too quickly, but remove it for the last 15 minutes to brown the top.
Can I make a gluten-free version?
Yes, by using a gluten-free pie crust and almond flour for the crumb topping, you can easily adapt this recipe.
How do I know when the pie is done?
The pie is done when the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling through the vents.
Conclusion
Dutch apple pie is a timeless dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any table. With its delicious balance of sweet and tart flavors, it’s perfect for celebrating special occasions or enjoying a cozy night in. Try this recipe and savor the delightful taste of homemade goodness!
Dutch Apple Pie
Ingredients
- 6 cups peeled and sliced apples
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 recipe pie crust
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup cold butter cubed
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour.
- Toss the mixture until apples are evenly coated.
- Roll out half of the pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie plate.
- Pour the apple mixture into the crust, spreading it evenly.
- In another bowl, mix brown sugar, oats, and cubed butter until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the crumb mixture over the apples.
- Roll out the second half of the crust and cover the pie, sealing the edges.
- Cut slits in the top crust for ventilation.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, until golden brown.