Apple Pie with Graham Cracker Crust

This Apple Pie with Graham Cracker Crust is a cozy, buttery treat that combines a crisp, flavorful crust with warmly spiced apple filling and a golden, crumbly topping. Perfect for sharing—or keeping all to yourself!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: No rolling pie dough; the graham cracker crust comes together in minutes.

• Cozy Flavors: Cinnamon-spiced apples with a touch of lemon for brightness.

• Perfect Texture: Crunchy crust, tender apples, and a crisp crumble topping.

• Customizable: Use your favorite apple varieties or adjust the topping for more sweetness.

• Impressively Homemade: Looks and tastes like a bakery pie but much simpler to make.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Crust

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 2 cups graham crackers, pulsed

• 3 ½ ounces unsalted butter

• 1 egg, optional, for egg wash

Filling

• 2 pounds apples

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 ½ tablespoons flour

• 1 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter

Crumble Topping

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• ½ cup brown sugar

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1 ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• ¼ cup butter

Directions

Pie Crust

1. Process sugar and graham crackers together until fully combined.

2. Add melted butter and pulse until the mixture is uniform, about 10 seconds.

3. Press the mixture into a prepared pie pan, using a glass to compact the crumbs evenly.

4. Brush the bottom with beaten egg if using (or use vegan alternative like aquafaba or butter).

5. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes until golden brown.

Filling

1. Peel and slice apples into ¼-inch thick slices.

2. Combine apples with cinnamon, sugar, lemon juice, flour, butter, and a pinch of salt in a large bowl.

3. Pour the apple mixture into the pre-baked graham cracker crust.

Crumble Topping

1. In a small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, salt, and cinnamon.

2. Cut in cold butter cubes using hands to form large clumps.

3. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple filling.

4. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45–50 minutes until apples are tender and the topping is golden.

5. Cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours before serving for clean slices.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 45 minutes

• Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

• Apple Mix: Combine tart apples (Granny Smith, Braeburn) with sweet ones (Golden Delicious) for balance.

• Spiced Twist: Add nutmeg or cloves to the filling for a warmer spice profile.

• Crumble Upgrade: Mix in chopped nuts or oats to the crumble for extra crunch.

• Vegan Option: Replace butter with plant-based butter and use aquafaba instead of egg.

• Mini Pies: Make this recipe in muffin tins for personal-sized pies.

Storage/Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 2 days.

• Fridge: Can last up to 5 days if tightly covered.

• Reheating: Warm individual slices in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 5–10 minutes or in the microwave for 30–60 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-made pie crust instead of a graham cracker crust?

Yes! A traditional pie crust works well but changes the flavor and texture slightly.

2. Which apple varieties are best?

Tart apples like Granny Smith or Braeburn balance sweet ones like Golden Delicious for perfect flavor.

3. Do I have to peel the apples?

Peeling is recommended for a smooth, tender texture, but you can leave the skins on for a rustic feel.

4. Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble and refrigerate it before baking, but add crumble topping right before baking.

5. Can I freeze this pie?

Yes, wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. Bake or thaw before serving.

6. Can I make a nut-free crumble?

Yes, the recipe is naturally nut-free. Avoid adding nuts if there are allergies.

7. Can I reduce the sugar in the filling?

Yes, you can adjust sugar to taste, especially if using very sweet apples.

8. How do I prevent a soggy crust?

Pre-bake the graham cracker crust and brush with egg wash to create a moisture barrier.

9. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar in the crust?

Yes, brown sugar adds a richer flavor, but may make the crust slightly softer.

10. Can I make individual pies or tarts?

Absolutely! Divide ingredients into muffin tins or small tart pans for personal-sized pies.

Conclusion

This Apple Pie with Graham Cracker Crust combines the perfect buttery crunch, tender spiced apples, and a sweet crumble topping for a comforting dessert everyone will love. Easy to make, cozy to eat, and flexible for variations, it’s a must-have for your baking repertoire.

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