Traditional Dutch Apple Pie Recipe

Dutch apple pie, or "Appeltaart," is a classic dessert that combines the natural sweetness of apples with the rich aroma of cinnamon and a buttery crust. This recipe offers a traditional approach to creating a delightful pie with a crumbly topping that’s perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients for Dutch Apple Pie

For the Pastry:

• 250g of plain flour
• 125g of unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 100g of caster sugar
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 tsp of vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For the Apple Filling:

• 6 large apples (Granny Smith or Braeburn are ideal), peeled, cored, and sliced
• 100g of brown sugar
• 1 tsp of ground cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp of ground nutmeg
• 2 tbsp of plain flour
• 1 tbsp of lemon juice
• 50g of raisins (optional, soaked in warm water)

For the Crumb Topping:

• 100g of plain flour
• 100g of brown sugar
• 75g of unsalted butter, softened

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pastry

1. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Incorporate the Butter: Add the cold butter cubes and rub them into the flour mixture using your fingers or a pastry cutter until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs.
3. Add Wet Ingredients: Stir in the beaten egg and vanilla extract. Mix until the dough comes together.
4. Chill: Form the dough into a disc, wrap it in cling film, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Apple Filling

1. Slice the Apples: Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges for even cooking.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and lemon juice. Mix well to coat.
3. Optional Additions: Drain the soaked raisins and add them to the apple mixture for extra sweetness and texture.

3. Make the Crumb Topping

1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix flour and sugar.
2. Add Butter: Rub the softened butter into the mixture until it forms small, crumbly clumps.

4. Assemble the Pie

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180°C (160°C fan)/350°F.
2. Roll Out the Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle large enough to fit a 9-inch pie dish.
3. Fit the Dough: Transfer the dough to the pie dish, pressing it gently into the base and up the sides. Trim any excess dough.
4. Fill the Pie: Spread the apple filling evenly over the pastry. Ensure the apples are slightly mounded in the centre.
5. Add the Crumb Topping: Sprinkle the crumb topping over the apples, covering them evenly.

5. Bake the Pie

1. Bake: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
2. Check for Doneness: Insert a knife into the centre to ensure the apples are soft and the filling is bubbling.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.

Tips for Perfect Dutch Apple Pie

• Apple Choice: Use a combination of sweet and tart apples for a more complex flavour.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the dough and filling a day in advance and assemble just before baking.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.

This traditional Dutch apple pie recipe is a heart-warming dessert that will leave your guests raving. Perfectly spiced and irresistibly crumbly, it’s a timeless classic you’ll return to time and again.