The Best Dutch Apple Pie Recipe Ever

Imagine this: the oven’s on, the kitchen smells like cinnamon and baked apples, and you can hear that gentle crackle of buttery crumble as it cools. That, my friend, is the magic of a Dutch Apple Pie. 

I know what you’re thinking, “Dutch Apple Pie? Isn’t that just pie with crumbs on top?”, but here’s the thing: it’s so much more. It’s the kind of pie that makes you pause, take a bite, and go, “Wow, I can do this at home.” No fancy tools, no complicated steps, just a few fresh apples, simple ingredients, and a little love.

In this recipe, I’m going to show you exactly how to nail that tender, spiced apple filling and that golden, melt-in-your-mouth crumble so you can serve a pie that tastes like a hug in dessert form. 

What is unique about Dutch apple pie?

Crispy, Buttery Crumble on Top – Every bite gives you that perfect crunch that melts in your mouth… it’s basically a hug in dessert form.

Tender, Spiced Apples in Every Slice – Not too sweet, just the right balance of cinnamon, nutmeg, and natural apple flavor. Your taste buds will thank you.

No Stress, All Reward – You don’t need to be a baking pro to pull this off. Seriously, if you can chop apples and mix a crumble, you’re all set.

Smells Like Magic – Imagine walking into your kitchen while this is baking… the aroma alone is enough to make your whole house feel like home.

Perfect for Any Occasion – Weeknight treat? Check. Weekend brunch? Absolutely. Impressing friends or family? Guaranteed.

The Ingredients You’ll Need for Dutch Apple Pie

• Pie Crust: I recommend using a store-bought crust for convenience, it gives you that flaky, buttery base without extra fuss.
• Apples: It’s best if you mix tart and sweet apples, this combo keeps the filling perfectly balanced.
• Lemon Juice: Always add a little lemon juice to keep the apples bright and fresh while you prep.
• Brown Sugar: I recommend brown sugar for its warm, caramel-like flavor that pairs beautifully with spices.
• Granulated Sugar: It’s best if you combine it with brown sugar, it lightens the sweetness without overpowering the apples.
• Vanilla Extract: I always add a splash of vanilla, it makes the whole pie taste cozy and bakery-fresh.
• Ground Cinnamon: I recommend cinnamon for that classic warm flavor that instantly smells like fall.
• Ground Nutmeg: Always add just a pinch, its depth enhances the spiced apple flavor without being too strong.
• Cornstarch: It’s best if you use cornstarch, it thickens the filling perfectly so it’s not runny.
• Salt: I always include a little salt, it balances all the sweetness and brings out the flavors.
• Butter (for topping): I recommend using cold, cubed butter, it creates a golden, crisp, melt-in-your-mouth crumble.
• All-Purpose Flour (for topping): Always use flour to give the crumble structure while keeping it tender and soft.
• Brown Sugar (for topping): I recommend brown sugar here too, it caramelizes beautifully and adds that irresistible golden color.

How to Make Your Dutch Apple Pie

Step 1: Create Your Crunchy Crumble

We’re starting with the star topping, the part everyone sneaks bites of before the pie even cools! In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, brown sugar, and warm spices until well combined. Then, grab your cold, cubed butter. I recommend using your fingers to gently rub the butter into the mixture until it’s crumbly, like coarse sand with little buttery nuggets. Here’s a tiny trick: if your kitchen is warm, pop it in the fridge for a few minutes, it’ll stay firmer and bake up crispier. Refrigerate it while you get the apples ready.

Step 2: Get Those Apples Ready

Peel, core, and slice your apples thinly, around an eighth of an inch thick. I like a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp; it gives you a filling that’s both tangy and sweet. Toss the slices immediately with lemon juice so they don’t brown while you mix the other ingredients. Add the sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, cornstarch, and just enough salt to balance the flavors. Gently fold the apples, think tender love, not rough mixing, so every slice gets a light coat of spice and sweetness. If a few slices break, don’t worry, they’ll meld beautifully in the filling.

Step 3: Assemble Like a Pro

Line your pie pan with the store-bought crust and press lightly into the edges. Layer the apple mixture in, tucking slices lightly so it’s full but airy. Then sprinkle your chilled crumble evenly on top, making sure every nook is covered. Tiny touch: leave a couple of bigger crumbs on top, they’ll bake into perfect crunchy peaks.

Step 4: Baking Magic

Preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C). Start by baking the pie for 10 minutes to set the crust, then lower the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for another 40–45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the crumble is golden and the apples are bubbling through. 

Step 5: The Waiting Game (Worth It!)

After baking, let your Dutch Apple Pie cool for at least 30 minutes, longer if you can resist! This helps the filling set so you can slice clean pieces.

If you love the cozy, sweet vibes of this pie, you’ll definitely want to try my pecan pie recipe too, rich, nutty, and just as irresistible!

Mistakes to avoid 

Skipping the Lemon Juice: Always toss your apples with lemon juice right after slicing, it keeps them bright and prevents them from turning brown while you prep everything else.

Using Warm Butter for the Crumble: Cold butter is key. If it’s too soft, your topping won’t get that perfect golden crunch. Tiny tip: cut it into cubes and chill while prepping apples.

Using Wet Apples: If your apples are too juicy (especially fresh-picked or very ripe), they can make the pie soggy. For best results, drain or lightly blot them before coating with sugar and spices.

Overbaking in Fear: Many people bake too long thinking it’ll “set” the filling. I recommend watching carefully toward the end, overbaked crumble can be dry and the apples too soft.

Perfect Things to Serve With Your Dutch Apple Pie

• Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream – Classic, smooth, and melts into the warm crumble for that ultimate cozy bite.
• A Dollop of Whipped Cream – Light and fluffy, it adds a soft, sweet contrast to the crunchy topping.
• Warm Caramel Sauce – Drizzle a little over each slice for extra indulgence and rich flavor.
• Cinnamon-Spiced Latte – A hot, spiced coffee drink pairs perfectly with the apple and nutmeg notes.
• Homemade Apple Cider – Warm or cold, it doubles down on apple goodness and keeps the cozy vibe going.
• Toasted Pecans or Walnuts – Sprinkle on top for extra crunch and a nutty compliment to the buttery crumble.

How to Store Your Dutch Apple Pie

Refrigeration: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days. Tip: let it come to room temperature before serving to bring back that cozy, fresh-baked feel.

Freezing: Slice the pie first, wrap individual slices in plastic, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven for 10–15 minutes for a warm, freshly-baked vibe.

Crumble Rescue Tip: If the topping loses its crunch, a sprinkle of brown sugar and a quick broil will revive it with instant crispness.

More Ways to Enjoy Apples

• Apple Pancakes
• Apple Cider Donut Cake
• Caramel Apple Dump Cake