Open face apple pie is like the convertible of dessert recipes. It’s fun, delicious, and all about taking the top down and loving life. You may know this one by another name: Dutch Apple Pie.
If you’re looking for recipes that use apples, this apple dessert is a must-make!
What is it?
It’s confession time for me. The first time I put this open face apple pie together, I didn’t realize I was in fact making a Dutch apple pie. My intention was to just make a bottom crust, put a filling in it, and top it with a streusel.
As I’m sure my sister chef Kathy would have said to me, “What a maroon!” Ask me if I would have cared? Not one bit. After all, she’s called me much worse.
I’ll admit, I can be a dummy in the kitchen. But when the end result tastes as good as this dessert recipe, I’d rather be lucky than good. Who cares what it’s called?
🥘 What’s in it?
- For the Filling:
- Apples
- Sugar
- Cinnamon
- Nutmeg
- Salt
- For the Streusel Topping:
- Brown sugar
- Flour
- Butter
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
I think the reason this recipe turns out so good is that it is so simple to make! Honestly. You can’t mess this one up!
🔪 How to make it
- Cut and peel six cups of apple slices then place them in a pastry shell. Either make a homemade crust or buy one in a grocery store.
- Mix some cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt and put it over the fruit.
- Create a topping of brown sugar, flour, and butter (with optional pecans or walnuts if desired) and sprinkle this combination over the spice mixture.
- Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, until the fruit is tender and the crust is lightly brown.
- Let it sit for 30 minutes before slicing, if you have the willpower!
We Americans love our pie recipes, and I would say this one is about as American as it gets.
Many people have a favorite pie. I don’t think I have ever turned down a slice of this one. It’s sort of like my mom saying she loved all of her kids (six) equally.
If you’re looking for some Thanksgiving pie recipes, this fail-proof open face apple pie is a great choice.
💭 Common recipe questions
What Are the Best Apples to Use
There’s no right or wrong answer to this question. Deciding on what variety to use in an apple pie is a matter of personal preference and availability. Some types are sweet (Honeycrisp) and some are tart (Granny Smith.) With that being said, these are some common very common varieties used to make pie:
- Mcintosh
- Sweet, rich, and hints of berry.
- Granny Smith
- Firm and juicy, tart in taste with hints of sweetness.
- Braeburn
- Intense, citrus and spice flavors.
- Pink Lady
- Crisp with a tart-sweet balance.
- Golden Delicious
- A balanced flavor making them great for baking.
- Their soft texture makes them ideal to mix with firmer varieties like Pink Lady or Granny Smith.
🥧 More holiday pie ideas:
- Pecan Pie from Platter Talk
- Thanksgiving Pies and Tarts from Food & Wine
- Brandy Chocolate Cherry Pie from Platter Talk
- Honey Maid™ Lemon Pie
More apple desserts
- Apple Turnovers using crescent rolls
- Danish Kringle
- Simple Apple Bars
- Apple Fritter Bread
- Slow Cooker Apple Butter
- Old-Fashioned Apple Dumplings
🧑🍳 Tried this recipe? Please leave a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating in the recipe card below and a comment. We love hearing from our readers!
⏭️ Stay in touch with us on social media by following us on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, and YouTube!
📬 Get our recipes delivered to your inbox for FREE!
📖 Recipe
Dutch apple pie
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 6 cups apples sliced and peeled
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
For the Topping
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees F.
- Fill pastry shell with apple slices.
- Combine granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt; sprinkle over the fruit
- Combine topping ingredients until crumbly; sprinkle over top of fruit.
- Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, until the fruit is tender and topping is browned.
Video
Notes
- See our recipe for homemade pie crust!
- Save time and use a store-bought crust. Remember, we never judge.
Sharon says
Good recipe but this is not a Dutch apple pie! Dutch applie pie is not open faced
Linda D C says
This recipe is similar to one my mother used to make all the time and it was a family favorite. I lost the recipe and for some reason was inspired to search for it and saw this one, which is close to what I am looking. I think it will be better than hers, if that is possible :). I don’t remember her using brown sugar for the topping nor nuts in it, and that’s why I think it will be better. I might try some dried cranberries in mine. Thanks for posting this.
Milli says
When I made the topping it didn’t turn to a crumble so I added a tablespoon of melted butter, then added 1/4 cup of brown sugar and 1/4 cup of flour. It worked great, ik it kinda doubles it but it works great
Dan from Platter Talk says
Fantastic suggestions for this homemade apple pie, Milli! Sounds like you made it “your own,” which we always recommend doing!
Rosa says
Love this recipe! I had to make some substitutes since I thought I had all the ingredients. I had to substitute butter with coconut oil and short on apples added black berries. Let’s see what it’s going to taste like.
Overall, easy and we can’t wait to try! Thank you!!!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks for the great comments, Rosa! We are so happy that you made this apple pie recipe your own by using what you have on hand! Be sure and let us know how it turned out!
MontyG says
Made this one tonight. We love it!!! This is very easy and no fail recipe. Thank you for posting this recipe!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Fantastic, Monty! I’m happy you enjoyed this Dutch Apple Pie recipe!
Carrie R says
I am so excited that apple season has finally arrived! Definitely saving this one to try soon. 🙂
Katerina @ diethood .com says
This looks incredible!! Perfect for fall!!
Chrissie Baker says
I love apples recipes. Yum Yum Yum! Cannot wait to try this! Love! Thank you for sharing this great recipe.
Catalina says
This apple pie is calling my name! I love the idea of open face!
Krista says
Whoa! Can I come join you! This looks so good! Perfect for Fall!
Dorothy at Shockinglydelish says
I love happy little accidents that have these results! Apple pie is a classic for a reason!!
Amanda says
This looks so amazing, I will have to try this!
Just Jo says
Oh my, apple pie! (My favourite ever Ben & Jerry’s flavour by the way lol)> Don’t worry – it’s not just Americans who love their apple pie, us Brits do too. And I’m glad to say deep filled ones like you see in the States are definitely on the menu over here too, as for many years, we went with the flat “plate pie” style ones. Your open face one looks gorgeous – I must make it for Hungry Hubby, it’s one of his favourite desserts 😀
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks so much, Jo. Your better half will love this one!
Becca @ Amuse Your Bouche says
I don’t think I’ve ever seen an open faced apple pie before! I suppose it’s a bit like an apple tart. Either way I bet it’s perfect with cream and custard 😀
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks for the comments, Becca!
Dannii says
You just can’t go wrong with a classic apple pie. It’s only breakfast time and I am already craving this.
Dan from Platter Talk says
I absolutely agree with you Dannii, and who cares if it’s only breakfast. Have a slice now, we promise not to judge!
Brian Jones says
Very nice, it has been what feels like an eternity since I have had an apple pie, now definitely on the list for the weekend.
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks so much, Brian.
valentina says
How awesome you still have a few apples on your tree! I love the look of this pie and I’m guessing it would be lovely to be your neighbor about now. 😉 Yum!
Dan from Platter Talk says
We definitely feel fortunate to have this beautiful tree in our backyard!
Gloria @ Homemade & Yummy says
Wow…loving the rustic look of this pie. Perfect for people who don’t like to fiddle around with the crust. Simple and delicious wins every time!!
Lisa | Garlic + Zest says
Ok, so apple pie is my deep, dark guilty pleasure. If there’s pie in the fridge I will attack it forkful by forkful. A little for breakfast, a smidge in the late morning. More for lunch — and oops — more around 3 o’clock. It’s just best to not have it in the house! LOL!
Lisa says
This looks and sounds fantastic! And just between you and me….I’m not that big a fan of all the crust, so I love the idea of an open faced pie! It’s actually a brilliant idea!!!
Kushi says
This looks so gorgeous. YUM!
Emma @ Supper in the Suburbs says
I’ll be perfecrly honest…im super greedy so would probably rather the extra pastry on top. That being said it looks delicious 🙂
Fiona Saluk says
oh my gosh that crust looks amazing! I like that you’re letting the apples shine and not covering them up with a top layer of crust. Great recipe!
Sarah @ Champagne Tastes says
I’m pretty sure open faced pie is the best thing ever– it’s healthy now right?! Because there’s less pie dough?? hehe
Beth @ Binky's Culinary Carnival says
I love the way the apples got so carmelized! What a great idea! Love you convertible apple pie!
Amanda says
This is so unusual. Just my style since I like the fillings more than the crust. Great for anytime.
Michelle says
I’m jealous you have apples on your trees! We have two small apple trees and I am really hoping one of these years we get apples. One tree we’ve had for a couple years, the other one we just planted this year. Anyway, this pie would make my oldest son very happy…it’s one of his favorite desserts!
Michaela Kenkel says
Apple pie is just the best!! This one is superb!
Angela says
Such a great idea!!! I have a bunch of apples that need using! May just have to give this a try!
Jennifer A Stewart says
I love being able to see all those gorgeous apples!
Lisa@Lisa's Dinnertime Dish says
Apple pie is always delicious and I love your convertible version. It’s just begging to be topped with whipped cream or a big scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Sandra Shaffer says
I love the apple filling the best, so I love this open-faced pie! Saves a little time prepping too, which is always a bonus.
Dan from Platter Talk says
Indeed, to all of your points, Sandra! Thanks for commenting here on Platter Talk!
Julie | Bunsen Burner Bakery says
So perfect for fall – and half the work to leave it open!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks so much, Julie and yes, half the work!
Lisa | Garlic + Zest says
I haven’t made an apple pie in forever! Now I must have one!
Dan from Platter Talk says
There’s no time like the present, Lisa!
Sarah @ Champagne Tastes says
This is like an apple galette! (And without the top pastry.. it’s healthy! … Right? lol)
Dan from Platter Talk says
Definitely healthy, Sarah!!! 🙂
Veena says
Oh I love the idea of an open faced Pie… I made apple pie last weekend after so long… ! Love apples.
Pinned for later. Thanks for the recipe
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks, Veena – I think you would love this one!
Tracy | Baking Mischief says
I’ve never seen an open face apple pie before. What a great idea! Your version looks delish, and Honey crisp apples are absolutely my fall favorite, I imagine they make a killer pie!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks, Tracy – we love our honey crisps!
Heather Gallagher says
I love a topless pie – the crust isn’t what I’m there for it’s for the delish filling – your apple looks soooo good!
Razena | Tantalisemytastebuds.com says
This is probably the most delicious looking Apple pie I have ever laid eyes on. I’m pinning this so I can make it soon!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks, Razena; it’s delicious as well!
Chef Mireille says
What a unique and delicious twist to an old classic – I can definitely dig into this version!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks for the great comments!
Donna says
Oh I just love homemade apple pie, and this version sounds absolutely delicious! How fun for the people that bought your pie a month for a year – I wouldn’t mind that 🙂
Dan from Platter Talk says
We love our pie, Donna!
Sam | Ahead of Thyme says
I love apple pie and yours looks sooo good!! Thanks for sharing, I will definitely be making this soon! 🙂
Cindy Gordon says
Oh my goodness, this looks amazing!! I need to try this asap! I love this time of year when I can make apple things! Pie is the best!
John @PreppyKitchen says
Tis the season! Autumn is my favorite time of year and my favorite season for desserts! Thanks for sharing your apple pie recipe 🙂
Dan from Platter Talk says
Indeed, it is time to tis the season, John! Give this fall classic a try and let us know how you like!
Lisa | Garlic + Zest says
I’ve never even heard of open-faced apple pie – but I love that you don’t need a top crust! Who knew?!
Emily says
It’s never a bad day when a warm apple pie is waiting in the kitchen…this looks so delicious!!
Catherine says
Dan, there is nothing more perfect in the fall than a slice of apple pie. Looks marvelous my friend!
Georgina Ingham | Culinary Travels says
Apple pie reminds me of cooking with my Grandmother, great memories 🙂 Totally love this slightly lighter, open face version.
Emily says
This looks amazing! I love the idea of an open face pie, who needs the crust on top!?
Renz says
I looove to see apple pie tops but this open face one wins!! It’s gorgeous. And I can get to the apples faster lol
Sophia | Veggies Don't Bite says
Nothing better than an apple pie baking in your kitchen! The smell is amazing. Perfect fall food! And yes on pecans. All the way!
Jennifer A Stewart says
With as good as this looks, we should all go topless!!
Dan from Platter Talk says
I like your line of thinking, Jen!
Christie Campbell says
This is such a cool idea! I never thought of that, but it looks so good! I can’t wait to try it.
Justine says
This looks wonderful, i can smell it through my computer screen!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Justine, we’ve had the same experience looking at so many of your recipes! Thanks a bunch for stopping by Platter Talk!
Angela says
I love how easy and rustic this is! Im going apple picking hopefully this weekend! Ill have to give this a go!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Enjoy the apples, Angela! Thanks so much for dropping by Platter Talk.
Jenny | Honey and Birch says
Apple pie is so good – I love this open-face version!!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks so much, Jenny!
Heather Gallagher says
This looks SOOOO good 😉 I love apple pie!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks so much, Heather!
Debi at Life Currents says
This looks awesome! I could go for a nice big slice and a scoop of ice cream! Maybe a slice of cheddar too!
Lisa@Lisa's Dinnertime Dish says
I’ve never had an open face apple pie, but I love the idea! It looks absolutely delicious!!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Lisa, this was our first, unplanned to boot. It turned out pretty well!
Patty Haxton Anderson says
Well skip plates, just give everyone a fork and dive in! Gosh it looks good.
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks so much Patty. Plates (and even forks) are always optional around here!
Michelle says
My oldest son absolutely loves apple pie…I think it is his favorite dessert! I may just have to make this for him next time he’s home from college!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks, Michelle; I’ll be he will love!
Michaela Kenkel says
Fall and Apples — they just go hand in hand, don’t they?? There is nothing that beats an apple pie with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream in my book!! This open faced pie is stunning, what a great idea!
Dan from Platter Talk says
All so true, Michaela! Thanks for the nice comments and for stopping by Platter Talk!
Julie says
Convertible apple pie LOL! This pie looks amazing. I would love to have access to apples like this. I love them year around and especially in pie this time of year. Ice cream with mine please!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks, Julie! We would be happy to share some wonderful apples if you only lived a bit closer!
Becca @ Amuse Your Bouche says
Love the idea of making your apple pie open faced – all the same flavour and enjoyment as a normal apple pie but slightly lighter – so you can have two slices ;D
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks so much, Becca!
Helen @ Fuss Free Flavours says
There is nothing more homely than a homemade apple pie! but when does an open face pic become a tart? Or is that a US / UK thing?
Dan from Platter Talk says
Hi Helen. We call it wonderful. Thanks so much for stopping by Platter Talk.
Igor @ Cooking The Globe says
Apple season is already here so it’s definitely a time for apple pies! Every single year I try different recipes. Adding yours to my collection!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thank you, Igor. We hope you try this one!
Julie | Bunsen Burner Bakery says
Open faced apple pies, with the visible giant heap of apples, are always so beautiful! If I’m baking for taste and not for appearance, though, I can’t resist covering it with a crumble topping. 🙂
Dan from Platter Talk says
We understand! Thanks for visiting Platter Talk!
Heidy L. McCallum says
I love the idea of an Open-Face Apple Pie Dan, less stress or work in my book. Great idea.
Marisa Franca @ All Our Way says
Seeing all those delicious apples is certainly making my mouth water. great recipe! Fall is here and we will be able to get some great apples for this pie. Thanks for sharing.
Jen | Baked by an Introvert says
Apple pie is my ultimate weakness and yours looks incredible!
Dan from Platter Talk says
We all have our weaknesses and it sounds like you picked a delicious one! Thanks for the kind comments.
Sam | Ahead of Thyme says
This looks incredible! Wish I had some right now!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Sam, I know the feeling!
Evi says
Apple pie! My favorite dessert!! I love how this is open faced, you get to see all those yummy apples.
Dan from Platter Talk says
That’s a great point! Thanks so much for the comment!
Florentina says
What a great idea to make this open face, easy breezy and ohlalala delicious! Smells like fall around here.
Dan from Platter Talk says
Just one more reason to get excited about the new season! Thanks so much for the comment!
Dahn@savor the best says
I am crazy about apple pie and actually prefer less crust, this is perfect. I love how the apples on top get little caramelized edges.. so good.
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks so much; this pie started as a second thought and ended as a first rate dessert!
Janette@CulinaryGinger says
Apple pie perfect and I agree, the vanilla ice cream is a must.
Aish says
The best part about keeping it open faced is that, you skip a little bit of crusting. Less guilt, right? Love it
Tara says
Such a beautiful pie! I’ve never tried open faced either. So perfect for going into fall.
Elizabeth says
Gosh I love the look of this so much! I haven’t had a home made apple pie in ages. I need to remedy this!
Sonya says
I made this pie yesterday and was disappointed. I think the directions need a little more detail in the baking process. At 400 degrees, my pie crust was burnt around 35 minutes, with the apples undercooked and soupy. When I looked at other pie recipes, it seems you need to check on the pie earlier, possibly cover it if the crust is browning too quickly, and/ or lower the temperature a bit. With a little tweaking of the directions, I’m sure it would come out delicious.
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks for your feedback, Sonya. You raise good points that are often due to oven temperature variability and “hot spots” in different ovens, just two of many factors that can affect the issues you have described. I hope you are able to tweak this recipe to your needs and as you suggested, I’m certain you’ll find this classic pie to be delicious. We appreciate your comments and of course for reading Platter Talk.
Sarah @ Sarah's Kitchen says
Beautiful pie! Looks so delicious!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks so much, Sarah!
Linda (Meal Planning Maven) says
So inviting! I can just imagine the heavenly aroma that came out of your kitchen while this beauty was baking!
Patty Haxton Anderson says
What a fun way to do apple pie! Your crust looks so flaky and amazing. Very clever indeed.
Angela LeMoine says
Thanks so much for linking up at The Wednesday Roundup! Looking forward to following along!! Angela @ http://lemoinefamilykitchen.blogspot.com
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks! Likewise, to you!!
Emily @ Love, Pasta and a Tool Belt says
This looks so delicious! I shared it on my Facebook page. Thank you so much for linking up at The Wednesday Round Up! Hope to see you back next week!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thank you for the comments, and of course the share!!
easyfoodsmith says
Oooh! Love that rustic no fuss pie baked to golden perfection. So very tempting.
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks for the comments!
Anna and Liz Recipes says
OH Dan, this is just another pie to add onto my list! Thanks for the recipe!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks, Ladies!!
dentistvschef says
wow, finger licking good sweet bites!
honestly, i like it even more if my apple pie top is naked too!
especially i love if it’s surface caramelized and i used to torched it too……
Dan from Platter Talk says
Yes, definitely finger licking good! Thanks for the comments!
Joanne says
I’ve yet to meet a pie I didn’t like! It would be way too hard to choose a favorite. Love this open-faced version!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Joanne,
Choosing favorites among pies is indeed a risky venture! Thank you for your comments, I hope you are having a nice week!
Anne ~ Uni Homemaker says
I don’t think I have ever had open face apple pie! And it’s brilliant! I prefer the filling more than the crust so this is perfect for me. Love this Dan!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Anne,
I love the filling too! (Of almost any pie!!) Thanks for the comments, hope you are having a nice week!
Nazneen Hamilton says
I’m from the group that thinks more crust the merrier! But, your pie looks gorgeous! I love how beautifully golden the apples have turned out. I could learn to like a single crust pie 😉
Dan from Platter Talk says
What a lovely comment, thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts! I’m a crust lover too, but this is a tasty pie, even with the top down!
Shashi Charles says
This is one amazing looking pie! What a great idea to have it “open faced” and have the crust on the bottom – that way it sops up all the sweet juices! BRILLIANT! Love the crunchy nutty topping too!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Shashi,
Thanks so much!
Stacy | Wicked Good Kitchen says
Dan, your apple pie looks scrumptious! Such a pretty rustic look this pie open face pie has, too. As you know, I just adore Honeycrisp apples. No wonder they were begging to be made into another pie! Thanks for sharing, my friend. Have a fabulous week ahead!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Stacy,
Thank you. I’m with you regarding these apple and I will use just about any excuse I can to enjoy them to the max! Have a great week and thanks again for stopping by and commenting.
Kitchen Riffs says
I don’t often see open faced apple pies, but I love the look. The apple slices look so great! We’re going to have to do this – thanks for the inspiration!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Thanks very much, this one is a looker 🙂
Pamela @ Brooklyn Farm Girl says
I love that you made this open faced, I think it’s quite the beauty!
Dan from Platter Talk says
Pamela,
Thanks, it’s always fun to mix thing up a bit. I hope you have a wonderful week, ahead!