Dutch apple pie has a special place in our hearts for its perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors topped with a buttery crumb crust. Paula Deen’s version takes this classic dessert to the next level with her signature Southern charm and rich ingredients that make every bite unforgettable.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Dutch Apple Pie Paula Deen style, we carefully select each component to balance rich flavors and textures. Our ingredients are organized by the pie’s key parts for an efficient prep.
For the Pie Crust
We start with a flaky and tender crust as Paula Deen loves it buttery and rich.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cut into cubes
- 4 to 6 tablespoons ice-cold water
For the Apple Filling
The heart of the pie blends sweet and tart, using crisp apples and warm spices.
- 6 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
For the Dutch Topping
This is our signature crumb topping, rich with butter and brown sugar for a crispy finish.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unsalted butter | ¾ cup (1 ½ sticks) | Melted |
| Light brown sugar | 1 cup | Packed |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup | |
| Rolled oats | 1 cup | Old-fashioned for texture |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon |
Each ingredient is critical to recreate Paula Deen’s classic Dutch Apple Pie that’s rich, flavorful, and irresistibly crumbly.
Equipment Needed
To create Paula Deen’s Dutch Apple Pie perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool supports us in achieving the ideal texture and flavor balance this pie is famous for.
- 9-inch Pie Dish: Use a sturdy glass or ceramic pie dish to evenly distribute heat, ensuring a golden crust and perfectly baked apples.
- Mixing Bowls: Multiple sizes help us combine ingredients separately for the crust, filling, and crumb topping.
- Pastry Blender or Food Processor: Essential for cutting cold butter into flour, creating a flaky pie crust.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy with sugar, flour, spices, and butter is key for authentic Paula Deen flavor.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife: For peeling and slicing Granny Smith apples uniformly.
- Cutting Board: A stable surface to prep our apples safely.
- Rolling Pin: Used to roll dough into an even thickness before fitting it into the pie dish.
- Spatula or Wooden Spoon: To mix the apple filling ingredients without bruising the fruit.
- Oven Mitts: Protect hands when handling hot pie dishes.
- Cooling Rack: Allows the pie to cool evenly after baking to maintain crust crispness.
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 9-inch Pie Dish | Even baking and crust formation |
| Mixing Bowls | Separating crust, filling, and topping |
| Pastry Blender or Food Processor | Creating flaky, tender crust |
| Measuring Cups/Spoons | Precise ingredient amounts |
| Chef’s Knife | Peeling and slicing apples |
| Cutting Board | Safe fruit prep |
| Rolling Pin | Even dough thickness |
| Spatula/Wooden Spoon | Gentle mixing of crumbly topping & filling |
| Oven Mitts | Heat protection |
| Cooling Rack | Prevents sogginess as pie cools |
Having each item ready at our workstation ensures smooth preparation and helps us effortlessly achieve Paula Deen’s rich and crumbly Dutch Apple Pie masterpiece.
Instructions
Follow these clear steps to create Paula Deen’s Dutch Apple Pie with a perfectly flaky crust, rich apple filling, and signature crumb topping that bursts with flavor.
Preparing the Pie Crust
- Combine dry ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon granulated sugar, and 1 teaspoon salt.
- Cut in cold butter: Add 1 cup (2 sticks) chilled unsalted butter, cut into small cubes. Use a pastry blender or food processor to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add ice water gradually: Pour in 4 to 6 tablespoons of ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently with a fork until the dough just comes together.
- Form dough and chill: Shape the dough into two disks, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before rolling.
Tip: Keeping the butter cold ensures a flaky pie crust, a hallmark of Paula Deen’s recipe.
Making the Apple Filling
- Peel and slice apples: Core and peel 6 to 7 Granny Smith apples, then slice them into thin 1/4-inch pieces.
- Mix filling ingredients: In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Let rest: Allow the mixture to sit for 10-15 minutes. This helps the flavors meld and the apples soften slightly.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Granny Smith apples | 6 to 7 (peeled, sliced) | Tart, firm texture |
| Granulated sugar | 3/4 cup | Sweetness balance |
| Brown sugar | 1/4 cup (packed) | Adds caramel flavor |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Prevents browning |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 teaspoon | Warm spice flavor |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon | Enhances depth |
| Salt | 1/4 teaspoon | Balances sweetness |
Preparing the Dutch Topping
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, and 1/2 cup rolled oats.
- Cut in butter: Add 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cubed. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to blend until the mixture becomes crumbly and sandy.
- Set aside: This crumbly topping will add rich texture and sweetness to the pie.
Assembling the Pie
- Preheat oven: Set to 375°F (190°C). Place an oven rack in the middle position.
- Roll out dough: On a floured surface, roll one disk of chilled pie dough into a 12-inch circle. Transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish, gently pressing it into place without stretching.
- Add apple filling: Spoon the prepared apple mixture evenly into the crust.
- Top with crumbs: Sprinkle the Dutch topping evenly over the apples.
- Bake the pie: Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the crumb topping is golden brown and the filling bubbles.
- Cool before serving: Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a rack for at least 2 hours to set the filling.
Remember: Handling the dough gently and baking until bubbly ensures Paula Deen’s classic Dutch Apple Pie achieves its signature flaky crust and sweet, crumbly topping.
Baking Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures an evenly baked pie with a golden crust and perfectly tender filling.
- Prepare the crust by rolling the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface into a 12-inch circle. Transfer the dough carefully to a 9-inch pie dish. Gently press it into place, trimming excess dough and leaving about a 1-inch overhang.
- Add the apple filling into the pie crust, spreading it evenly to cover the bottom. The mixture of Granny Smith apples, sugars, and spices creates that signature sweet and tart balance.
- Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apple filling. The topping, rich with buttery crumbs and rolled oats, will bake to a crisp golden brown finish.
- Place the pie on the middle rack of the oven to ensure consistent heat circulation and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. Keep an eye on the crust edges; if they brown too quickly, cover them with foil to prevent burning.
- Check for doneness by observing the bubbling juices beneath the crumb topping and the crust’s deep golden color. A slight jiggle in the filling is normal but avoid underbaking to maintain the pie’s structure and flavor.
- Remove the pie from the oven using oven mitts and set it on a cooling rack. Allow it to cool for at least 2 hours. This cooling period is crucial for the filling to set and the crust to remain crisp.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preheat Oven | 375°F (190°C) | – | Consistent baking heat |
| Baking Time | 375°F (190°C) | 50-60 minutes | Cover crust edges with foil if needed |
| Cooling Time | Room temp | 2 hours | Ensures filling sets and crust crisps |
“The key to Paula Deen’s Dutch Apple Pie perfection lies not just in the ingredients but in the precision of baking and cooling.”
Cooling and Serving Suggestions
Once the Dutch Apple Pie Paula Deen comes out of the oven, it’s crucial to let it cool properly. We recommend allowing the pie to rest on a cooling rack for at least 2 hours. This cooling period helps the filling to set firmly, preventing it from being runny when sliced, and ensures the crumb topping stays crisp and buttery.
Cooling Steps
- Transfer the hot pie carefully from the oven onto the cooling rack using oven mitts.
- Leave uncovered at room temperature. Avoid wrapping or covering the pie immediately; doing so traps steam and softens the crumb topping.
- Check the pie after 2 hours. If the filling is still slightly loose, allow additional cooling time in increments of 30 minutes.
Serving Ideas
Our favorite way to enjoy Paula Deen’s Dutch Apple Pie is warm or at room temperature. Enhance the experience by pairing the pie with one or more of these serving suggestions:
| Serving Style | Description |
|---|---|
| Vanilla Ice Cream | A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts perfectly over the warm crumb topping. |
| Whipped Cream | Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a smooth, airy contrast to the crisp topping. |
| Caramel Drizzle | Warm caramel sauce drizzled over each slice enhances the pie’s rich buttery flavor. |
| Coffee or Tea | A strong cup of coffee or spiced tea balances the pie’s sweetness perfectly. |
Pro Tips for Serving
- Use a sharp serrated knife to cut clean slices without disturbing the delicate topping.
- Allow the pie to cool completely if serving chilled, which offers a firmer texture and a refreshing option.
- For gatherings, pre-slice the pie after cooling for easier serving and presentation.
“Letting your Dutch Apple Pie cool properly unlocks the full depth of flavor Paula Deen’s recipe has to offer.“
By following these cooling and serving suggestions, we ensure every slice of our Dutch Apple Pie Paula Deen is perfectly delicious and satisfying.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing Paula Deen’s Dutch Apple Pie in advance can save time and enhance its flavors. Here are our top make-ahead strategies to keep your pie fresh and delicious.
Chill the Dough Ahead of Time
After mixing the crust dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This resting period allows the gluten to relax, making the crust easier to roll out and resulting in a flakier texture.
Prepare the Apple Filling 1 Day Early
Peel, slice, and mix the Granny Smith apples with sugar, spices, and lemon juice as outlined. Store the filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This step helps the apples absorb the spices, enriching the flavor.
Assemble and Refrigerate Before Baking
You can fully assemble the pie—crust, filling, and crumb topping—and cover it with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Keep in mind the crumb topping may soften slightly, but it will regain crispness during baking.
Freeze for Longer Storage
For longer storage:
| Step | Instruction | Storage Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Unbaked Pie | Assemble as usual, wrap tightly, freeze flat | Up to 2 months |
| Baked Pie | Wrap cooled pie well, freeze | Up to 3 months |
When ready to bake an unbaked frozen pie, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed. For a baked frozen pie, thaw at room temperature for 2–3 hours before serving.
Reheating Tips
Reheat slices gently in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes to restore the crust’s crispness and warm the filling without drying it out.
Conclusion
Paula Deen’s Dutch Apple Pie is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together classic flavors with a rich, crumbly twist. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, we can easily recreate this Southern-inspired dessert in our own kitchens. Taking the time to prepare and cool the pie properly ensures each slice delivers the perfect balance of texture and taste.
Whether enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or savored at room temperature, this pie is sure to become a favorite for family gatherings and special occasions. By following these tips and tricks, we’ll have a delicious homemade treat that captures the comforting essence of Paula Deen’s signature recipe every time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Paula Deen’s Dutch Apple Pie special?
Paula Deen’s Dutch Apple Pie combines a flaky crust, tart Granny Smith apples, and a buttery crumb topping enriched with brown sugar and oats, giving it a rich, crumbly texture with Southern charm.
What are the key ingredients for the crust?
The crust uses all-purpose flour, sugar, salt, chilled unsalted butter, and ice water to create a flaky and tender base for the pie.
Which apples are best for the filling?
Granny Smith apples are ideal for the filling due to their tartness and firm texture, which balance the sweetness of the sugars and spices.
What equipment is needed to make the pie?
You’ll need a 9-inch pie dish, mixing bowls, a pastry blender or food processor, measuring cups and spoons, a sharp knife, cutting board, rolling pin, spatula or wooden spoon, oven mitts, and a cooling rack.
How do I prepare the crumb topping?
Mix flour, brown sugar, rolled oats, and cold butter until crumbly to create the signature sweet and crunchy topping.
What is the baking temperature and time for this pie?
Bake the pie at 375°F (190°C) for 50 to 60 minutes until the crust is golden and the topping is crisp.
Why is it important to cool the pie after baking?
Cooling for at least 2 hours helps the filling set properly and keeps the crust crisp, preventing a runny pie.
Can I prepare parts of the pie ahead of time?
Yes, chilling the dough, preparing the filling, and even assembling the pie a day in advance can enhance flavors and make baking easier.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for a few days or freeze the baked or unbaked pie to maintain freshness; reheat to restore crispness before serving.
What are some serving suggestions?
Serve warm or at room temperature with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or alongside coffee or tea for a delightful experience.