Apple Streusel Pie is a warm treat filled with sweet, spiced apples and topped with a crispy crumbly topping. It’s like a cozy hug in dessert form!
Honestly, who can resist that crunchy streusel? I always end up sneaking a piece before dinner. If you share, I hope you cut me a big slice! 😋
Baking this pie is a breeze! Just mix, layer, and pop it in the oven. The scent of apples and cinnamon filling your kitchen is the best part of all!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: I recommend using Granny Smith apples for their tartness that balances well with the sweetness. If they’re not available, you can mix in Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a different flavor profile!
Butter: Cold unsalted butter is essential for a flaky crust. If you want a dairy-free option, use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute instead. Just make sure it’s chilled before using!
Oats: Rolled oats in the streusel add texture. If you prefer a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free oats or simply omit them if you want a more traditional crumb topping.
Nuts: Walnuts or pecans can be added to the streusel for crunch. If you have nut allergies, feel free to leave them out or use seeds like sunflower seeds instead!
How Do I Perfectly Prepare the Pie Crust?
The pie crust could be the trickiest part, but it’s all about keeping the butter cold and not overworking the dough. Here’s how you can nail it:
- Start with chilled ingredients. Keep your butter in the fridge until you’re ready to use it.
- Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work the butter into the flour until you see pea-sized pieces.
- When adding water, do it gradually and just enough to bring the dough together without it being sticky—over-mixing can lead to a tough crust!
Once you roll it out, make sure not to stretch the dough when placing it in the pie pan. This helps prevent shrinkage while baking, keeping your pie beautifully shaped.
Apple Streusel Pie Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (Granny Smith or a mix of tart and sweet apples)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Streusel Topping:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup rolled oats
- 2/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
Time Needed:
The total time for this delicious Apple Streusel Pie is about 3 hours, which includes 1 hour for chilling the pie dough, and baking it for 50-60 minutes. You will want at least 2 hours of cooling time after baking to let the filling set, making it perfect for serving later!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pie Crust:
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Then, using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Form it into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
2. Make the Apple Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated and set aside.
3. Make the Streusel Topping:
In a separate medium bowl, mix together the flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. If you’re using nuts, add them now. Pour in the melted butter and mix until the mixture is crumbly and forms small clumps.
4. Assemble the Pie:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). On a floured surface, roll out the chilled pie dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the dough into the pie pan, pressing it gently into place and crimping the edges. Pour the prepared apple filling into the crust, spreading it out evenly, and then sprinkle the streusel topping generously over the apples.
5. Bake:
Place the assembled pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the streusel is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly. If the streusel browns too quickly, cover the pie loosely with aluminum foil halfway through baking.
6. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the pie cool for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set properly. Serve your pie warm or at room temperature. For an extra treat, enjoy it topped with vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce!
Enjoy your comforting, crumbly, and sweet Apple Streusel Pie! It’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in!
Can I Use a Store-Bought Pie Crust?
Absolutely! A store-bought pie crust can save time and effort. Just follow the package directions for pre-baking if required, and fill it with the apple filling and streusel topping as directed in the recipe!
How Can I Store Leftover Pie?
Store leftover Apple Streusel Pie in the refrigerator, covered tightly with plastic wrap or foil. It can last for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or microwave, and enjoy the flavors again!
Can I Freeze This Pie?
Yes, you can freeze the pie! To freeze, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. To serve, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
What Can I Substitute for Apples?
If you’re looking to mix things up, you can experiment with other fruits like pears or a combination of apples and pears for a unique flavor. Just be mindful to adjust the sugar content based on the sweetness of the fruit you choose!