The Best Pennsylvania Dutch Apple Pie You’ll Ever Taste

Few desserts evoke the comfort and warmth of home quite like a freshly baked apple pie. This Pennsylvania Dutch Apple Pie takes that nostalgic feeling to the next level with a rich, spiced apple filling and a signature buttery crumb topping. Unlike traditional double-crust pies, this version features a streusel-like topping that adds delightful texture and golden crunch, all while keeping things light and balanced.

Perfect for holiday tables, family dinners, or simply a cozy evening treat, this pie is a beautiful blend of simplicity and heartwarming flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Flavor: Sweet, tender apples kissed with cinnamon and nutmeg.
Crumble Topping: Buttery, oat-filled topping adds texture without being overly heavy.
Lighter Option: Smart ingredient swaps keep the indulgence in check.
Perfectly Rustic: No pie lattice or fancy crust needed—just old-fashioned charm.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Enjoy warm or chilled; leftovers are delicious the next day.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 4 cups peeled, thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
• 2 tbsp maple syrup or brown sugar substitute
• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Crumb Topping:

• ½ cup rolled oats
• ⅓ cup almond flour or all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp light butter or plant-based butter, chilled and cubed
• 2 tbsp brown sugar or sweetener of choice
• ¼ tsp salt
• Optional: pinch of cinnamon for extra spice

For the Base:

• 1 9-inch pre-made or homemade pie crust (look for a lighter version or gluten-free if needed)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Set your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie crust into a 9-inch pie pan and set aside.

Prepare the Filling:

In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, maple syrup, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.

Assemble the Pie:

Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly.

Make the Crumb Topping:

In a separate bowl, mix oats, flour, sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Add the cold butter and use a fork or your fingers to mix until coarse crumbs form.

Top and Bake:

Sprinkle the crumb mixture evenly over the apples. Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch drips) and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.

Cool and Serve:

Let the pie cool for at least 15–20 minutes before slicing. Serve warm or chilled, with a dollop of whipped topping or a scoop of light vanilla ice cream, if desired.

Nutritional Information (Approximate Per Slice)

• Calories: 210
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 32g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 14g (natural + sweetener)
• Protein: 2g

Tips for Success

• Use a mix of apples for more depth of flavor and texture.
• Chill the crumb topping ingredients for easier mixing and better texture.
• Tent with foil if the topping browns too quickly before the apples are fully tender.
• Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the topping for extra crunch.
• Make ahead and reheat slices in the oven or microwave for a fresh-out-of-the-oven feel.

Why This Recipe Works

The balance of sweet and tart apples, combined with a lighter approach to both crust and topping, makes this pie a guilt-free comfort food. By using oats and almond flour in the crumb, you get rich flavor without heaviness. Plus, skipping the top crust reduces both calories and prep time without compromising on that golden, baked finish we all crave.

This Pennsylvania Dutch Apple Pie is a celebration of tradition with a modern, mindful twist. It’s rustic, rich in flavor, and just the right amount of sweet. Whether you’re sharing it with guests or savoring a quiet slice for yourself, it’s sure to become a go-to seasonal favorite.