Apple Pie with Walnut Crumble – A Cozy and Crunchy Treat

This apple pie with walnut crumble topping is the ultimate in homemade comfort. The pie features layers of spiced apples nestled in a buttery crust and topped with a crunchy, golden walnut crumble. This recipe brings together warm cinnamon, sweet apples, and a hint of nutty richness, making it a perfect dessert for family gatherings, holidays, or any cozy day at home.

Ideal for apple lovers, this pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, creating a dessert that’s both flavorful and satisfying.

Ingredients:

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• ½ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• 4-5 tablespoons ice water

For the Apple Filling:

• 5-6 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (a mix of sweet and tart apples works best)
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (to thicken the filling)

For the Walnut Crumble Topping:

• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
• ½ cup chopped walnuts
• ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Pie Crust

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold butter cubes, and using a pastry cutter or your fingers, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter pieces. Gradually add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Shape it into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Make the Apple Filling

In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour. Toss until the apples are evenly coated with the spices and sugar. The flour will help thicken the juices during baking.

3. Roll Out the Crust

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Carefully transfer the rolled dough to the dish, pressing it gently into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough from the edges.

4. Add the Apple Filling

Pour the apple filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. The apples should form a slight mound in the center of the pie.

5. Make the Walnut Crumble Topping

In a medium bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon (if using) for the crumble topping. Add the cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the mixture until it forms coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped walnuts, distributing them evenly throughout the crumble.

6. Top the Pie and Bake

Sprinkle the walnut crumble evenly over the apple filling, covering the apples entirely. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips, then bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust and topping are golden brown, and the apples are tender.

7. Cool and Serve

Allow the pie to cool for at least 1 hour before slicing. This allows the filling to set and makes for easier serving. Serve warm or at room temperature with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Tips and Variations

• Use a Mix of Apples: A blend of sweet and tart apples, like Honeycrisp and Granny Smith, creates a balanced flavor and texture in the filling.
• Add Extra Spice: For a more robust spiced flavor, add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves to the apple filling.
• Try Different Nuts: If walnuts aren’t your favorite, try substituting them with pecans or almonds in the crumble topping.
• Add a Touch of Maple: Replace some of the sugar in the topping with maple syrup for a subtle caramel flavor that pairs beautifully with apples.

Serving Suggestions

This apple pie with walnut crumble is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:

1. Classic with Ice Cream: Serve a warm slice with vanilla ice cream for a comforting, classic combination.
2. With Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy contrast to the richness of the pie.
3. Paired with Hot Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a slice with a hot drink for a cozy dessert experience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This apple pie with walnut crumble is a warm, comforting dessert that combines the best of classic apple pie with the nutty crunch of a crumble topping. The mix of tender apples, buttery crust, and crunchy walnuts creates a satisfying contrast in textures, while the cinnamon adds warmth. Ideal for any occasion, this pie is sure to impress!

Storing and Shelf Life

Once baked, store any leftover pie in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 3 days. You can also freeze individual slices in an airtight container for up to 2 months. To reheat, warm the pie in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Customizing Your Apple Pie

Feel free to personalize this pie by experimenting with different fruit combinations. Try adding a handful of cranberries to the apples for a festive, tart flavor, or incorporate a bit of orange zest into the filling for a citrus twist. This pie is highly adaptable, allowing you to make it your own.

Apple pie with walnut crumble is a delightful dessert that brings together the cozy flavors of fall and the crunchy texture of nuts. Perfect for family gatherings, holidays, or any occasion, this pie is a treat that will quickly become a favorite. Enjoy every slice of this heartwarming, homemade dessert!