Apple Pie with Cranberry Crumble: A Perfect Dessert Recipe

Apple pie is a universally loved dessert that evokes warmth and nostalgia. While the traditional version is already a masterpiece, adding a cranberry crumble elevates it to a whole new level. This recipe combines the sweetness of baked apples with the tangy brightness of cranberries, topped with a buttery crumble that offers a delightful crunch.

This detailed guide will walk you through every step, from crafting the perfect pie crust to assembling and baking this dessert masterpiece. By the end, you'll have a show-stopping pie that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a festive gathering, a family dinner, or simply a treat for yourself.

Ingredients

To make this pie from scratch, you’ll need a combination of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. The components are divided into three parts: the crust, the filling, and the cranberry crumble topping.

For the Crust:

• 2 ½ cups (315 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 cup (230 g) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 6-8 tbsp ice water

For the Apple Filling:

• 6 medium apples (mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for balanced flavor)
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (55 g) brown sugar
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

For the Cranberry Crumble:

• 1 ½ cups (150 g) fresh or frozen cranberries
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• ½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
• ½ cup (45 g) rolled oats
• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¼ tsp cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Pie Crust

A good crust is the foundation of any great pie. Follow these steps to create a buttery, flaky crust:

1. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Cut in Butter: Add chilled, cubed butter to the dry mixture. Using a pastry blender or your hands, combine until the mixture forms coarse crumbs.
3. Add Ice Water Gradually: Drizzle in ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently after each addition until the dough comes together.
4. Shape and Chill: Gather the dough into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Preparing the Apple Filling

The filling is where the magic happens. Apples lend their natural sweetness and pair beautifully with warm spices.

1. Peel and Slice: Peel the apples, remove the cores, and slice them evenly. Aim for slices about ¼ inch thick.
2. Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss until all the slices are coated evenly.

3. Making the Cranberry Crumble

This topping adds a vibrant and tangy contrast to the sweet apple filling.

1. Prepare Cranberries: If using fresh cranberries, rinse and dry them. For frozen cranberries, thaw and pat them dry before use. Toss the cranberries with sugar in a bowl.
2. Mix the Crumble: In another bowl, combine flour, oats, cinnamon, and softened butter. Use your fingers or a fork to mix until the topping resembles coarse crumbs. Gently fold in the cranberries.

4. Assembling the Pie

Now it’s time to bring all the components together.

1. Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer it to a 9-inch pie dish and press gently into the edges. Trim any excess dough.
2. Add the Apple Filling: Arrange the apple slices evenly in the pie shell, slightly mounding them in the center.
3. Top with Cranberry Crumble: Sprinkle the cranberry crumble over the apple filling, ensuring an even distribution.

5. Baking the Pie

Proper baking ensures your pie achieves the perfect balance of textures and flavors.

1. Preheat the Oven: Heat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake: Place the pie on the center rack and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling bubbles around the edges.
3. Cool: Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before slicing. This ensures the filling sets properly.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Choose the Right Apples: A mix of tart and sweet apples creates a balanced flavor. Avoid varieties that turn mushy when baked.
• Prevent a Soggy Crust: To ensure a crisp base, you can blind bake the crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling.
• Even Slicing: Uniform apple slices ensure the filling cooks evenly.
• Storage: Leftover pie can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.

Serving Suggestions

• Classic Pairing: Serve a warm slice with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• Elegant Touch: Drizzle with caramel sauce for added sweetness.
• Seasonal Delight: Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a few fresh cranberries for a festive presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This apple pie with cranberry crumble is more than just a dessert—it’s an experience. The tartness of the cranberries balances the sweetness of the apples, while the crumble topping adds a satisfying crunch. Every bite is a harmony of textures and flavors that’s sure to become a family favorite.

With this recipe, you’ll be able to create a pie that’s not only delicious but also visually stunning—a centerpiece for any table. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this detailed guide ensures success every time.

Now, grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and start baking. The aroma of this pie in your kitchen will be worth every effort!