Fall Apple Crumble Pie with Cinnamon Spices

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How to make the perfect Fall Apple Crumble Pie with tender spiced apples and golden crumble topping for autumn gatherings.

james carter jr for recipes by clare
By James Carter Jr
Updated on Mon, 15 Sep 2025 20:27:02 GMT

I’m always drawn to making Fall Apple Crumble Pie during autumn months because it fills my entire kitchen with the most incredible cinnamon and nutmeg aromas. This recipe transforms simple tart apples into a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any fall gathering.

Every October, I find myself craving that perfect combination of tender spiced apples and crispy golden crumble topping. This Fall Apple Crumble Pie has become my go-to recipe because it’s surprisingly simple yet delivers restaurant-quality results every time. The secret lies in using a mix of tart apples and keeping your butter properly chilled for that perfect crumbly texture. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or preparing for Thanksgiving, this apple crumble pie recipe creates those warm, nostalgic moments that make fall so special. The best part? This is actually a crustless version, making it easier than traditional pie recipes.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Apple Crumble

I always recommend using a combination of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples for the ideal sweet-tart balance in your Fall Apple Crumble Pie. Here’s everything you’ll need:

  • 6 cups tart apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best), peeled and sliced
  • 2/3 cup light brown sugar (total amount – will be divided during preparation)
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated if possible
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned style preferred)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

I always keep my butter in the freezer for 15 minutes before making the crumble – this creates those perfect flaky pieces that make the topping irresistible. The key is working quickly so the butter stays cold.

Step-by-Step Baking Instructions

I recommend gathering all your ingredients before starting, as this Fall Apple Crumble Pie comes together quickly once you begin.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9-inch pie dish with butter or cooking spray.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with 1/3 cup of the brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until evenly coated. The mixture should smell fragrant and look glossy.

Step 3: In a separate bowl, combine flour, oats, remaining 1/3 cup brown sugar, and chilled butter cubes. Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the mixture until it resembles coarse sand with some pea-sized butter pieces remaining. The mixture should hold together when squeezed but still look crumbly.

Step 4: Spread the seasoned apple mixture evenly in your prepared pie dish, then sprinkle the crumble topping over the apples, covering completely.

Step 5: Bake for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and you can see the apple juices bubbling around the edges. The crumble should sound crispy when tapped lightly.

Step 6: Allow to cool for at least 15 minutes before serving – this cooling time helps the filling set properly while keeping it warm enough to melt vanilla ice cream.

Perfect Pairings for Apple Crumble Pie

This Fall Apple Crumble Pie pairs beautifully with both warm and cold accompaniments that complement the autumn spices.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic choice that creates a delightful temperature contrast and balances the warm cinnamon spices perfectly.

Caramel Sauce: Drizzle warm caramel over each slice to enhance the brown sugar flavors in both the apples and crumble topping.

Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream provides a creamy texture that doesn’t compete with the pie’s rich flavors.

Hot Coffee or Spiced Cider: These beverages echo the warm spices in your apple crumble pie while providing the perfect cozy autumn experience.

Smart Storage and Reheating Tips

Store your Fall Apple Crumble Pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days – the flavors actually improve after the first day as the spices meld together.

For reheating, I recommend warming individual slices in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes to restore that crispy crumble texture. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it tends to make the topping soggy.

This apple crumble pie freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then foil, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. You can also assemble the entire pie and freeze before baking – just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

More Spectacular Apple Desserts and Savory Complements

This elegant fall apple crumble pie elevates the beloved flavors found in our Classic Apple Crumble and Perfect Apple Crumble Recipe to special occasion status. For equally impressive desserts with unique twists, explore our indulgent Apple Crumble Cheesecake Recipe or stunning Apple Crumb Cake with Cinnamon Apple Drizzle.

Transform these apple pie flavors into convenient treats with our delicious Apple Cinnamon Streusel Muffins and seasonal Apple Pumpkin Streusel Muffins perfect for breakfast or coffee breaks. When planning a complete feast, serve this spectacular pie after satisfying mains like Chicken Alfredo Garlic Bread or Roasted Garlic White Chicken Pizza.

Frequently Asked Questions About Apple Crumble Pie

Can I substitute different apples in this Fall Apple Crumble Pie?

Absolutely! Braeburn, Jonagold, or Pink Lady apples work wonderfully, just avoid overly sweet varieties like Red Delicious as they can make the pie too sugary.

Why is my crumble topping not crispy enough?

Make sure your butter is properly chilled and don’t overmix the crumble – you want distinct butter pieces that will create flaky layers during baking. The mixture should look like coarse breadcrumbs with visible butter pieces.

Can I make this apple crumble pie ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the pie completely, cover tightly, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.

Your New Favorite Fall Dessert Awaits

This Fall Apple Crumble Pie delivers everything you want in an autumn dessert – tender spiced apples, golden crumble topping, and that irresistible homemade aroma that brings everyone to the kitchen. The best part is how forgiving and customizable this recipe is, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers. Try this recipe tonight and create your own delicious fall memories!

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Fall Apple Crumble Pie with Cinnamon Spices

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Perfect autumn dessert featuring tender spiced apples and crunchy golden crumble topping. Easy recipe ready in 60 minutes for fall gatherings.

  • Author: James Carter Jr
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 60 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Bake
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 cups tart apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and sliced
  • 2/3 cup light brown sugar (divided)
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated if possible
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup rolled oats (old-fashioned style)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9-inch pie dish with butter or cooking spray.
  2. In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with 1/3 cup brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice until evenly coated.
  3. In separate bowl, combine flour, oats, remaining 1/3 cup brown sugar, and chilled butter cubes. Work mixture until it resembles coarse sand with pea-sized butter pieces.
  4. Spread seasoned apple mixture evenly in prepared pie dish, then sprinkle crumble topping over apples, covering completely.
  5. Bake for 45-50 minutes until top is golden brown and apple juices are bubbling around edges.
  6. Allow to cool for 15 minutes before serving warm with vanilla ice cream or caramel drizzle.

Notes

  • Use combination of tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for perfect sweet-tart balance.
  • Keep butter chilled for flakiest crumble texture. Freeze for 15 minutes before using for best results.
  • Freshly ground cinnamon and nutmeg provide deeper flavor than pre-ground spices.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (1/8 of pie)
  • Calories: 280 kcal
  • Sugar: 35 g
  • Sodium: 45 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 42 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 30 mg

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