Dutch Apple Pie

Dutch Apple Pie is a classic dessert perfect for holidays or any cozy gathering. Made with tart Granny Smith apples, warm spices like cinnamon and cardamom, and topped with a buttery crumb topping, this pie is both flavorful and comforting. It’s a timeless recipe that’s simple to make yet impressively delicious.

Ingredients

For the pie:

• 1 single pie crust
• 2 ½ pounds Granny Smith apples (about 6 apples)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground cardamom
• ½ cup raisins (optional)

For the topping:

• ⅔ cup all-purpose flour
• ¼ cup brown sugar (packed)
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup cold butter

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 375°F.
• Line a deep-dish pie plate with the pie crust.
• Peel, core, and slice the apples into ⅛-inch slices.
• Toss the apple slices with granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, cardamom, and raisins if using.
• Place the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust.
• For the topping, mix flour, brown sugar, and granulated sugar in a bowl.
• Add cold butter and combine using a pastry cutter or your hands until large crumbs form.
• Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apples.
• Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the apples are tender and the crust and topping are golden brown.
• Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving.

Serving & Storage Tips

• Serve slightly warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days to keep apples fresh.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to restore crispness.
• Freeze unbaked pie for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking.

Variations

1. Caramel Dutch Apple Pie – Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple filling before adding topping.
2. Pecan Dutch Apple Pie – Mix chopped pecans into the crumb topping.
3. Almond Dutch Apple Pie – Add sliced almonds to the topping for a nutty flavor.
4. Maple Dutch Apple Pie – Replace some sugar with maple syrup for a rich, autumn taste.
5. Cranberry Dutch Apple Pie – Add fresh or dried cranberries to the apple mixture for tartness.
6. Ginger-Spiced Dutch Apple Pie – Add ½ teaspoon ground ginger to the apple filling.
7. Gluten-Free Dutch Apple Pie – Use a gluten-free pie crust and flour in the topping.
8. Apple-Raspberry Pie – Mix raspberries with the apples for a fruity twist.
9. Cheddar Crust Dutch Apple Pie – Add shredded cheddar to the crust for a savory-sweet combination.
10. Cinnamon Streusel Dutch Apple Pie – Add extra cinnamon to the topping for a spicier version.
11. Bourbon Dutch Apple Pie – Add 1 tablespoon of bourbon to the apple filling for depth of flavor.
12. Honey Dutch Apple Pie – Replace some sugar in the filling with honey.
13. Apple-Pear Dutch Pie – Combine apples with peeled, sliced pears for a delicate sweetness.
14. Pumpkin-Spiced Dutch Apple Pie – Mix 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice into the filling.
15. Mini Dutch Apple Pies – Make individual pies using muffin tins for personal servings.

FAQs

1. Can I use other apple varieties?
   Yes, Honeycrisp or Fuji apples can be used, but Granny Smith apples hold their shape best.
2. Can I prepare the pie ahead of time?
   Yes, assemble the pie and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
3. How do I prevent the topping from burning?
   Cover loosely with foil if the topping browns too quickly.
4. Can I make this pie gluten-free?
   Yes, use a gluten-free crust and flour.
5. Can I add nuts to the filling?
   Yes, walnuts or pecans can be added for extra crunch.
6. How long should I let the pie cool?
   Let it cool for at least 30 minutes to allow the filling to set.
7. Can I freeze baked pie?
   Yes, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
8. Should I peel the apples?
   Peeling is recommended for a smooth texture, but you can leave skins on if preferred.
9. Can I substitute raisins?
   Yes, dried cranberries or chopped dates work well.
10. What’s the best way to serve it?
    Serve warm with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

This Dutch Apple Pie is a comforting and crowd-pleasing dessert with tender spiced apples and a crisp, buttery crumb topping. It’s perfect on its own or served with vanilla ice cream, making it an ideal dessert for holidays, gatherings, or simply a cozy treat at home.

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