Easy Dutch Apple Pie

Every autumn, as the leaves turn golden and the air gets a little crisper, I find myself yearning for the comforting aroma of a warm pie cooling on the windowsill. Memories of my grandmother’s kitchen flood back to me, the tantalizing scent of cinnamon and apples swirling around, inviting everyone to gather. Her Easy Dutch Apple Pie was the centerpiece of many family gatherings, a dessert that transcends generations. Today, I want to share that same warmth and nostalgia with you through this delightful recipe that is just as easy to make as it is to enjoy.

Recipe Timing

• Prep Duration: 20 minutes
• Active Cooking: 50 minutes
• Total Duration: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Portion Size: Serves 8
• Complexity: Simple

Nutritional Recipe

• Calories per portion: Approximately 290
• Protein: 2g
• Carbs: 41g
• Fats: 13g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 18g
• Sodium: 70mg

Why You’ll Love This Easy Dutch Apple Pie

This Easy Dutch Apple Pie is the ultimate comfort dessert. With a generous filling of tart Granny Smith apples tossed in sugar and cinnamon, it strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tangy. The crumbly oat topping adds a rustic texture that complements the soft apples beneath. Best of all, it’s straightforward to prepare, making it the ideal recipe whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting your culinary adventure.

The Complete Cooking Journey

Imagine this: You’re prepping ingredients, your kitchen filled with the scent of fresh apples and spices. The pie crust cradles the sweet, juicy apple filling, and as it bakes, your home is enveloped in the warm, inviting aroma of cinnamon. Once it’s out of the oven, and after a brief cooling, you slice into that crisp topping to reveal the luscious apples. Each bite transports you back to cherished memories while creating new ones.

Ingredients:

• 6 cups sliced and peeled apples (like Granny Smith)
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 unbaked pie crust
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup butter, softened

Method:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to prepare for that golden-brown crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, cornstarch, and salt until they are evenly coated.

Step 3: Load the Pie Crust

Pour the apple mixture into the unbaked pie crust, spreading it evenly to ensure every slice has a taste of those delicious apples.

Step 4: Make the Crumb Topping

In another bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, oats, and butter until the mixture becomes crumbly. It should resemble wet sand, with chunks that will create lovely crispy bits over the pie.

Step 5: Assemble the Topping

Sprinkle the oat mixture generously over the apples in the pie, ensuring it covers the entire surface for that beautiful, crunchy topping.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake for 15 minutes in the preheated oven. Then, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 30-35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.

Step 7: Let it Cool

Once baked, let your pie cool before serving. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to set, making for clean, beautiful slices.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

A slice of Easy Dutch Apple Pie is delicious on its own, but serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. Pair it with a cup of spiced chai or a warm mug of apple cider for the ultimate autumn experience.

Storage & Leftovers Guide

Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze wrapped slices for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw it in the fridge before reheating!

Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for the best flavor contrast.
• Don’t skip the lemon juice; it adds brightness and helps prevent the apples from browning.
• If you prefer a softer topping, you can add a little more butter to the crumb mixture to help it clump together.

Flavor Variations & Adaptations

Feel free to experiment! You can add nuts like pecans or walnuts to the topping for a bit more crunch. Try a sprinkle of nutmeg along with the cinnamon for added spice, or even opt for a whole grain crust for a healthier take.

Reader Questions & Solutions

1. Can I use frozen apples?

   • Yes! Just make sure they are thawed and drained well before use, as excess moisture can make your pie soggy.

2. What if I don’t have corn starch?

   • You can use flour instead—but start with half the amount, as flour is less effective as a thickener than cornstarch.

3. How do I know when the pie is done?

   • The apples should be tender, and the topping should be golden brown. You can poke the apples with a fork to test their tenderness.

4. Can I make this pie ahead of time?

   • Absolutely! You can assemble it a day in advance and store it in the fridge, then bake it the next day for a fresh pie.

5. What can I substitute for butter in the topping?

   • Coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative work well if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.

Wrapping Up

This Easy Dutch Apple Pie doesn’t just fill the belly; it fills the heart with warmth and memories. I hope this recipe becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine. Take the chance to gather your loved ones, share stories, and create new memories with each delicious slice. Happy baking! 🍏🥧

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