Name: Apple Pie with Streusel Topping
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups sliced peeled apples (Granny Smith or your choice); 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 2 tbsp all-purpose flour; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 (9-inch) unbaked pie crust; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for streusel); 1/3 cup packed brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for streusel); 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (for streusel); 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

Apple Pie with Streusel Topping is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining the warmth and comfort of spiced apples with a crumbly, buttery topping. This version omits the traditional top crust and replaces it with a golden streusel made from flour, sugar, and butter, offering a pleasing contrast in texture and flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this pie delivers both nostalgia and indulgence in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Apple Pie with Streusel Topping is beloved for its unique combination of flavors and textures. The tender apple filling, infused with cinnamon and a touch of nutmeg, pairs perfectly with the crisp, golden topping. It’s easier to prepare than a double-crust pie, making it ideal for both novice and experienced bakers. Additionally, this pie is perfect for holidays, gatherings, or a comforting treat on a quiet evening.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
All-purpose flour
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Lemon juice
Unsalted butter
Salt

For the Streusel Topping:

All-purpose flour
Brown sugar
Unsalted butter (cold and cubed)
Ground cinnamon (optional for extra flavor)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare your pie crust and place it into a 9-inch pie dish. Set aside.
Peel, core, and slice the apples. Toss them with lemon juice, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly.
In a separate bowl, prepare the streusel topping by mixing flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or fork until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the apple filling.
Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips, and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the filling is bubbly.
Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before serving to let the filling set.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 8 servings.
Prep time: 25 minutes
Cook time: 55 minutes
Cooling time: 2 hours
Total time: Approximately 3 hours 20 minutes

Variations

Nutty Streusel: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the streusel for a crunchy element.
Spiced Upgrade: Incorporate ground ginger or cardamom for a more complex spice profile.
Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free pie crust and substitute the flour in the streusel with a gluten-free alternative.
Vegan Option: Use a vegan butter substitute in both the crust and streusel, and ensure your pie crust is dairy-free.
Berry Addition: Mix in a handful of fresh or frozen berries with the apples for added tartness and color.

Storage/reheating

Allow the pie to cool completely before storing. Cover it loosely with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 20–30 seconds or reheat the entire pie in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through. You can also serve it cold or at room temperature, depending on preference.

FAQs

What are the best apples to use for this pie?

Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are excellent choices because they hold their shape during baking and offer a balance of tart and sweet flavors.

Can I make the streusel topping ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the streusel in advance and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to a month.

Should I blind bake the crust before adding the filling?

Blind baking is not necessary for this pie, as the long baking time allows the crust to cook through properly.

How do I prevent the streusel topping from burning?

If the topping starts to brown too quickly, loosely tent the pie with foil during the last 15–20 minutes of baking.

Can I freeze this pie?

Yes, once baked and cooled, wrap the pie tightly in foil and freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Is it necessary to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for a smoother texture, but you can leave the skins on if preferred for added fiber and rustic appeal.

What type of pie crust works best?

A buttery, flaky pie crust works best—either homemade or a high-quality store-bought version.

How can I tell when the pie is done?

The streusel should be golden brown, and the filling should be bubbling, especially at the edges.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can reduce the sugar slightly in both the filling and topping, especially if your apples are naturally sweet.

Can I add caramel to this recipe?

Yes, drizzle caramel sauce over the filling before adding the streusel or serve the pie with a caramel topping for added richness.

Conclusion

Apple Pie with Streusel Topping is a delicious and elegant alternative to the traditional double-crust pie. With its warm spiced apple filling and sweet, crunchy topping, it’s sure to become a favorite at your dessert table. Whether served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or on its own, this pie is a comforting classic that never goes out of style.

Apple Pie with Streusel Topping