Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie

Incredible Dutch apple pie made with a perfectly spiced filling is a true delight for the senses. Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie combines sweet-tart apples with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, all brought together by a splash of bourbon. This pie is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in. Its crunchy Dutch crumb topping adds a delightful texture, making it not just delicious but also visually appealing. Once you try this recipe, it will surely become your favorite as well!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet-tart apples and warm spices creates an irresistible taste.
• Crispy Topping: The traditional Dutch crumble topping adds a satisfying crunch to each slice.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for holidays, gatherings, or simply enjoying at home with vanilla bean ice cream.
• Easy to Make: With clear instructions, even novice bakers can succeed with this recipe.
• Family Favorite: This pie is Tony’s favorite and has become a beloved dish among friends and family.

Tools and Preparation

To make Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure your baking process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Pie pan
• Large skillet or pot
• Medium bowl
• Baking sheet
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Pie pan: A good pie pan helps achieve an even bake and allows for easy serving.
• Large skillet or pot: Ideal for cooking the apple filling evenly without burning.
• Medium bowl: Perfect for mixing the crumb topping thoroughly before applying it to the pie.
• Wire rack: Allows the pie to cool evenly after baking, preventing sogginess.

Ingredients

For the Crust:

• 1 recipe for pie crust

For the Filling:

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 ½ pounds sweet-tart, firm apples (honeycrisp, braeburn or pink lady are great), peeled and cut into 1/4th inch slices (about 10 cups sliced apples)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon allspice
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon bourbon or amaretto
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• ½ tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch

For the Dutch Apple Topping:

• 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (107g) packed brown sugar
• ¼ cup (24g) rolled oats
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• 6 tablespoons butter, melted

For Serving:

• Vanilla bean ice cream

How to Make Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Make the pie dough and shape it in a pie pan ahead of time. Store covered in the fridge.
2. You can follow my recipe for an all-butter flaky pie crust, use your favorite recipe, or buy a store-bought crust.

Step 2: Make the Apple Pie Filling

1. Melt butter in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
2. Add the sliced apples and stir to coat them with butter.
3. Sprinkle brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, allspice, and nutmeg over the apples; stir well to combine.
4. Lower heat to medium-low and cook for about 5 minutes until apples soften.
5. Stir in bourbon, vanilla extract, apple cider vinegar, flour, and cornstarch; cook over low heat for 3–5 minutes until thickened.
6. Remove from heat and let cool for at least 30 minutes.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375 degrees F.

Step 4: Prepare the Dutch Crumble Topping

1. In a medium bowl, mix together flour, brown sugar, oats, and cinnamon.
2. Add melted butter; stir with a fork until it forms crumbles resembling wet sand.
3. You may need to use your hands to create nice crumbles; cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready.

Step 5: Assemble the Pie

1. Remove the pie crust from the refrigerator; place it on a large baking sheet to catch any spills while baking.
2. Pour cooled apple filling into the crust; top with dutch crumble topping.

Step 6: Bake Your Pie

Bake for 50–65 minutes until filling is bubbly and crumb topping is golden brown. Check after 30 minutes; cover edges with foil if necessary.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving

Allow pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 4 hours before cutting into it. This helps set the filling for easier serving! Enjoy your homemade masterpiece!

How to Serve Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie

Serving Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie is just as important as making it. The right accompaniments can elevate this dessert to new heights, enhancing its delightful flavors.

With Vanilla Bean Ice Cream

• A classic pairing that adds creaminess and richness to the pie.

Drizzled with Caramel Sauce

• Adds a sweet, gooey texture that complements the spiced apple filling.

Topped with Whipped Cream

• Light and airy, whipped cream adds a wonderful contrast to the crunchy topping.

Served Warm

• Warm slices allow the filling to ooze out for a deliciously inviting presentation.

Accompanied by Strong Coffee

• A robust coffee helps cut through the sweetness of the pie, making it a perfect ending to any meal.

How to Perfect Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie

Perfecting Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie requires attention to detail and a few handy tips. Here are some essential suggestions:

• Choose the Right Apples: Use a mix of sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp or Braeburn for balanced flavor.

• Pre-cook the Filling: Slightly cooking the apples before baking helps soften them and melds the spices together.

• Don’t Skip Cooling: Allow the pie to cool for at least 4 hours. This helps set the filling for easier slicing.

• Watch the Crust: If it browns too quickly, shield with foil. This ensures an evenly baked crust without burning.

Best Side Dishes for Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie

Pairing side dishes with Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheeses balances the sweetness of the pie beautifully.

2. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and contrasts nicely with the rich flavors of the pie.

3. Spiced Nuts: Crunchy spiced nuts provide an added texture element that’s both savory and satisfying.

4. Chocolate Fondue: Dip fruits or marshmallows in chocolate for a fun, interactive dessert experience.

5. Tea Selection: Offer herbal or chai tea; their warmth complements the spices in the pie well.

6. Crème Brûlée: For an elegant touch, serve alongside this creamy dessert for a sophisticated pairing.

7. Pumpkin Bread: This seasonal favorite echoes autumn flavors, making it a great addition during fall gatherings.

8. Pecan Tartlets: These small desserts provide a nutty crunch and pair well with apple flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that could affect the outcome of your pie.

• Not using the right apples: Using apples that are too soft will result in a mushy filling. Stick to sweet-tart varieties like Honeycrisp or Braeburn for the best texture.
• Skipping the chilling step: If you don’t chill your pie crust before baking, it may shrink during cooking. Allowing it to rest helps maintain its shape.
• Overcooking the filling: Cooking the apples too long before adding them to the crust can lead to a loss of texture. Cook just until they start to soften.
• Not letting it cool: Cutting into the pie too soon can cause the filling to run. Allow it to cool for at least 4 hours for perfect slices.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can result in an unevenly cooked pie. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if necessary.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The pie will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie

• Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for 30-45 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie that may help you along your baking journey.

What makes Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie special?

This pie combines perfectly spiced apple filling with a crunchy dutch crumble topping, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

Can I use different types of apples?

Absolutely! While Honeycrisp and Braeburn are recommended, you can also mix in other varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji for added flavor complexity.

How do I know when my pie is done?

The pie is done when the filling is bubbly and the crumb topping is golden brown. Check after about 50 minutes of baking.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and crust a day ahead. Simply assemble and bake when you’re ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Tony’s Very Favorite Dutch Apple Pie is not just a dessert; it’s a comforting dish filled with warm flavors that everyone loves. You can customize it by adding nuts or caramel sauce, making it versatile enough for any occasion. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!