Dutch Apple Pie Recipe Easy is the perfect treat for any occasion. There’s something special about the scent of warm cinnamon and baked apples filling the kitchen. It instantly transports us to cozy holiday gatherings, weekend baking sessions, or simply the joy of indulging in a homemade dessert. With its flaky crust, soft spiced apple filling, and that irresistible buttery crumb topping, this pie is a must-try!
Unlike a traditional apple pie with a double crust, Dutch Apple Pie features a delicious streusel topping that makes it even easier to prepare—no need to roll out a top crust! This version is perfect for both beginner bakers and seasoned pie lovers looking for a simple yet impressive dessert. Whether you’re serving it for Thanksgiving, a family dinner, or just because, this easy Dutch Apple Pie recipe will become a go-to favorite.
Ready to make the best homemade Dutch Apple Pie? Let’s get started!
What Is Dutch Apple Pie?
Dutch Apple Pie is a variation of classic apple pie known for its signature streusel topping instead of a traditional pastry crust. This crumbly topping, made from butter, sugar, and flour, adds a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the soft, spiced apple filling.
How It Differs from Classic Apple Pie:
- Dutch Apple Pie: Has a single crust with a streusel (crumb) topping.
- Traditional Apple Pie: Features a double crust (top and bottom pastry layers).
- Apple Crisp: No bottom crust; just baked apples with a crisp topping.
Many people love Dutch Apple Pie because it combines the best of both worlds: the structure of a pie with the crunch of an apple crumble. The crumbly topping also makes it easier to prepare since there’s no need for an additional pastry crust.
Best Apples for Dutch Apple Pie
The type of apples you use makes or breaks your pie. The key is to find apples that balance sweetness and tartness while holding their shape after baking.
Top Apple Varieties for Dutch Apple Pie:
- Granny Smith (Tart, firm) – Ideal for balancing sweetness.
- Honeycrisp (Crisp, slightly sweet) – Holds its shape well.
- Braeburn (Juicy, sweet-tart) – Enhances flavor.
- Gala (Mildly sweet, soft) – Adds a natural sweetness.
Avoid These Apples:
- Red Delicious & Golden Delicious: Too soft, turn mushy when baked.
- Jonagold: Loses structure when cooked.
For the best results, mix two or more apple varieties for a more complex flavor and texture. A great combination is Granny Smith + Honeycrisp for tartness and a firm texture.
Key Ingredients & Why They Matter
Apple Filling:
- Apples: The star of the show! Use a mix of tart and sweet apples.
- Brown Sugar & White Sugar: Brown sugar adds depth, while white sugar balances sweetness.
- Cinnamon & Nutmeg: Classic apple pie spices for warmth and flavor.
- Lemon Juice: Prevents apples from browning and enhances the tartness.
- Flour or Cornstarch: Thickens the filling so it’s not too runny.
Pie Crust:
- Store-Bought vs. Homemade: A store-bought crust saves time, but a homemade flaky butter crust elevates the pie.
- Butter vs. Shortening: Butter gives a rich flavor, while shortening adds flakiness.
Streusel Topping:
- Flour: Forms the base of the crumbly topping.
- Brown Sugar & White Sugar: Provides sweetness and crunch.
- Butter: Creates a buttery, crisp topping.
- Cinnamon: Adds warmth to the crumble.
- Optional Nuts: Chopped pecans or almonds for extra crunch.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Easy Dutch Apple Pie
1: Prepare the Pie Crust

- If using homemade dough, roll it out and press it into a 9-inch pie dish.
- Chill the crust in the fridge while preparing the filling.
2: Make the Apple Filling

- Peel, core, and slice apples about 1/8 inch thick for even baking.
- In a large bowl, mix apples with brown sugar, white sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
- Stir well and let sit for 10 minutes to release juices.
3: Prepare the Streusel Topping

- In a bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, white sugar, and cinnamon.
- Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until crumbs form.
- (Optional) Add chopped pecans or almonds for crunch.
4: Assemble & Bake the Pie

- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Pour the apple filling into the crust and spread evenly.
- Sprinkle the streusel topping generously over the apples.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes until the topping is golden brown and apples are bubbly.
- Let cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Baking Tips & Tricks for the Best Pie
- Prevent a Soggy Crust: Brush the crust with egg wash or pre-bake it for 5 minutes.
- Avoid a Burnt Topping: Cover with foil if browning too quickly.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare and refrigerate the filling in advance.
How to Store & Freeze Dutch Apple Pie
- Room Temperature: Keep loosely covered for 2 days.
- Refrigeration: Store covered for up to a week.
- Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 4 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 325°F for 10-30 minutes.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Classic Pairing: Vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle with Caramel Sauce.
- Whipped Cream Topping.
Variations & Dietary Substitutes
- Vegan: Use plant-based butter and dairy-free crust.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust and almond flour in the topping.
- Sugar-Free: Swap sugar for coconut sugar or a sugar substitute.
FAQs
Yes! It saves time and still tastes great.
Apple crisp has no bottom crust, just a crumble topping.
Up to a week in the fridge or 4 months in the freezer.
Related Recipes
- Looking for more delicious fruit-based desserts? Check out Amarena Cherries in Syrup.
- Love homemade pastries? Try Puff Pastry Dessert Recipes.
- Want comforting fall desserts? Try Wendy’s Thin Mint Frosty.
This easy Dutch Apple Pie recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to impress. Try it today and let us know how it turns out!
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Dutch Apple Pie Recipe Easy
- Total Time: ~1 hour 40 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Dutch Apple Pie is a flaky, buttery crust filled with warm spiced apples and topped with a golden, crunchy streusel topping. It’s easier than traditional apple pie—no top crust needed! Perfect for holidays, family gatherings, or anytime you crave a comforting dessert.
Ingredients
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 cups apples, peeled & sliced (Granny Smith + Honeycrisp recommended)
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup white sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for a thicker filling)
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (prevents apples from browning & adds brightness)
For the Streusel Topping:
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup white sugar
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, cold & cubed
- (Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or almonds for extra crunch)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
- If using homemade dough, roll it out and press it into a 9-inch pie dish.
- Chill the crust in the fridge while preparing the filling.
Step 2: Make the Apple Filling
- Peel, core, and slice apples into 1/8-inch thick pieces.
- In a large bowl, mix apples with brown sugar, white sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
- Let sit for 10 minutes to release juices.
Step 3: Prepare the Streusel Topping
- In a small bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, white sugar, and cinnamon.
- Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until crumbly.
- (Optional) Stir in chopped pecans or almonds.
Step 4: Assemble & Bake the Pie
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pour the apple filling into the pie crust and spread evenly.
- Generously sprinkle the streusel topping over the apples.
- Bake for 50-55 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.
- Let cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Prevent a Soggy Crust: Brush the crust with egg wash or pre-bake for 5 minutes.
- Avoid a Burnt Topping: Cover loosely with foil if browning too quickly.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the filling in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: dutch apple pie recipe easy
Table of contents
- What Is Dutch Apple Pie?
- Best Apples for Dutch Apple Pie
- Key Ingredients & Why They Matter
- Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Easy Dutch Apple Pie
- Baking Tips & Tricks for the Best Pie
- How to Store & Freeze Dutch Apple Pie
- Serving Suggestions & Pairings
- Variations & Dietary Substitutes
- FAQs
- Related Recipes