This Apple Streusel Pie is a cozy dessert loaded with juicy apples and topped with a crumbly, buttery streusel. It’s the perfect mix of sweet and crunchy!
Every bite makes me feel like it’s fall, no matter the season. I like to serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream on the side. Trust me, it’s a slice of happiness! 🍏🥧
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: For the filling, Granny Smith apples are my go-to for their tartness, which balances the sweetness. Honeycrisp also works well. If you want to mix it up, try a combination of apples for added depth of flavor!
Butter: Use unsalted butter for more control over the pie’s saltiness. If you need a dairy-free option, coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute can be used instead.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar is ideal for that touch of caramel flavor. You can swap it for dark brown sugar if you love a deeper flavor. For a healthier alternative, try using coconut sugar or maple sugar!
Nuts: Chopped pecans or walnuts are optional in the streusel. If you’re nut-free, you can skip them entirely or use oats for an extra crunch.
How Do I Get a Flaky Pie Crust?
The pie crust can be tricky, but here’s how to make it flaky:
- Keep your ingredients cold! Cold butter and ice water make a difference. Don’t overwork the dough; mix until just combined.
- After mixing, let the dough chill. This helps the gluten relax, leading to a tender crust.
- When rolling out your dough, don’t stress about perfection. A rustic look is charming for homemade pies!
What’s the Best Way to Prepare the Apples?
Prep your apples properly for the best flavor and texture:
- Peel, core, and slice evenly for consistent cooking. Thin slices (about 1/4 inch) work best.
- Tossing the apples with the citrus juice keeps them from browning and adds brightness.
- Mixing the apples with sugar and spices allows for a juicy, flavorful filling!
Apple Streusel Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pie Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the Apple Filling:
- 6 cups peeled, cored, and thinly sliced apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
For the Streusel Topping:
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
For Serving (optional):
- Caramel sauce
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need approximately 30 minutes for prep time and about 50-60 minutes for baking, plus an additional 2 hours for cooling. This pie is worth every minute!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pie Crust:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing just until the dough holds together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Roll and Place the Crust:
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a 12-inch circle. Next, fit the dough into a 9-inch pie dish, trimming any excess and crimping the edges for a nice finish. Refrigerate the crust while you prepare the filling.
3. Make the Apple Filling:
In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and flour until all the apple slices are well coated. This mixture will ensure your apples are sweet and flavorful!
4. Prepare the Streusel Topping:
In another medium bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture becomes crumbly, then fold in the nuts if you’re using them. This topping will add a delicious crunch to your pie!
5. Assemble the Pie:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the apple filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Then, sprinkle the streusel topping generously over the apples, ensuring it’s well distributed.
6. Bake the Pie:
Place the assembled pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the streusel is golden brown and the apples are tender. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, loosely cover it with foil.
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours to allow it to set properly. Drizzle it with caramel sauce and garnish with fresh mint leaves before serving. Enjoy your pie warm or at room temperature, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Enjoy your delicious Apple Streusel Pie with its buttery crust, spiced apple filling, and crunchy cinnamon streusel topping!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples for the Filling?
Yes, you can! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are great choices for their balance of sweetness and tartness, feel free to experiment with other varieties like Fuji, Braeburn, or even a mix for more complex flavor.
How Can I Make the Pie Crust Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the pie crust a day in advance. Simply wrap the formed disk tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to use it, roll it out as indicated in the recipe!
What Should I Do with Leftover Pie?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It should be good for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm slices in the microwave or place in a toaster oven until heated through.
Can I Freeze This Pie?
Absolutely! You can freeze the unbaked pie by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake it, bake from frozen, adding an extra 15-20 minutes to the baking time.
