If you adore the cozy flavors of classic apple pie but want to elevate it with a creamy twist, you’re going to fall head over heels for the Sour Cream Apple Pie with Brown Sugar Streusel Recipe. This pie brings together tart apples, a luscious sour cream filling, and the irresistible crunch of brown sugar streusel, creating a dessert that’s perfectly balanced in sweetness, texture, and comfort. Whether it’s a holiday centerpiece or a weekend treat, this recipe has all the homestyle goodness you crave wrapped up in one sensational pie.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the first step toward that perfect slice of pie bliss. Each component plays an important role, from the tartness of the apples to the creamy tang of the sour cream, and the buttery crumbly streusel on top.
- Pie crust: Using a homemade or quality store-bought 9-inch crust saves time and provides a crispy, flaky foundation for your pie.
- Tart apples (6 cups): Granny Smith apples add a bright, tangy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the sweet streusel topping.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Keeps the apples from browning and adds a subtle zest to brighten the filling.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the apple mixture just right without overpowering the natural fruit tartness.
- Ground cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Offers warm, inviting spice that makes every bite comforting.
- Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): A subtle spice that enhances the apples’ flavor depth.
- All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons for filling, 1/2 cup for streusel): Helps thicken the filling and forms the crumbly topping texture.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Gives the filling a creamy, tangy richness that sets this pie apart.
- Brown sugar (1 cup, packed): Adds caramel-like sweetness and moisture to the streusel topping.
- Cold unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, cubed): Essential for creating the buttery, crisp streusel crumbs.
How to Make Sour Cream Apple Pie with Brown Sugar Streusel Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Chill the Pie Crust
Start by rolling out your pie dough and firmly pressing it into a 9-inch pie dish. This step is crucial for creating a sturdy base. Chilling the crust in the refrigerator while you mix the filling will prevent shrinking during baking and help keep the crust delectably crisp.
Step 2: Make the Apple and Sour Cream Filling
Peel, core, and slice the apples evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. Toss them with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour—the flour helps absorb excess juice, avoiding a soggy pie. Gently fold in the sour cream, which transforms the filling from a simple fruit mixture into a smooth and creamy delight, adding a subtle tang that balances the sweetness beautifully.
Step 3: Prepare the Brown Sugar Streusel Topping
Mix the brown sugar, flour, and cubed cold butter together using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. This topping is what makes this recipe truly memorable—it bakes into a crunchy, caramelized layer that contrasts with the tender apples beneath.
Step 4: Assemble the Pie
Pour the creamy apple filling into the chilled pie crust, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the brown sugar streusel generously over the top, making sure it covers most of the filling but still lets you see a few apple slices peeking through. This balance creates an inviting, rustic look while guaranteeing every bite has goodness.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your pie at 375°F (190°C) for 50 to 60 minutes until the streusel topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Placing a baking sheet underneath catches any drips, keeping your oven tidy. Don’t forget to rotate the pie halfway through baking for an even, perfectly browned crust and streusel.
Step 6: Cool and Set
Once baked, allow your pie to cool for at least two hours. This resting time is essential as it allows the filling to set fully so it slices cleanly and maintains its creamy texture. Serving it slightly warm or at room temperature lets all the flavors shine just right.
How to Serve Sour Cream Apple Pie with Brown Sugar Streusel Recipe
Garnishes
A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream takes this pie from delicious to downright decadent. Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon on top for an extra aromatic touch that complements the warm spices in the filling.
Side Dishes
This pie pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea, making it perfect for cozy gatherings or an afternoon treat. For a bolder contrast, try serving it alongside sharp cheddar cheese—it’s a classic pairing that brings out the apple’s sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, dust powdered sugar around the edges of each slice or serve pie slices on pretty decorative plates to elevate the experience. Alternatively, serve mini versions in ramekins for personal portions that wow guests at parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and refrigerate. It stays fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days, making it perfect for satisfying that second or third craving.
Freezing
You can freeze the unbaked assembled pie wrapped well in plastic and foil for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the fridge before popping it in the oven. This saves time and lets you enjoy the Sour Cream Apple Pie with Brown Sugar Streusel Recipe whenever the mood strikes.
Reheating
To warm up leftover pie, place it in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15 minutes to regain that fresh-baked crispness. Avoid the microwave if possible; the oven helps maintain the delightful texture of both filling and topping.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought pie crust?
Absolutely! A quality store-bought crust works perfectly and saves time. Just be sure to chill it well before filling to prevent shrinking while baking.
What kind of apples are best for this recipe?
Tart and firm apples like Granny Smith are ideal because they hold their shape during baking and balance the sweetness of the streusel topping wonderfully.
Why do you add sour cream to the filling?
Sour cream adds a creamy tang that enhances the texture and flavor, making the filling smooth and rich instead of just fruity.
Can I make the streusel topping ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the streusel a day ahead. Keep it refrigerated in an airtight container and sprinkle it on just before baking for maximum freshness and crunch.
How do I prevent the crust from getting soggy?
Chilling the crust before baking and coating the apple slices with flour helps absorb excess moisture, keeping the crust firm and crisp.
Final Thoughts
If you want to impress your family and friends with a pie that’s bursting with flavor and delightful textures, don’t hesitate to try the Sour Cream Apple Pie with Brown Sugar Streusel Recipe. It’s a heartwarming dessert that feels like a loving hug on a plate, perfect for any occasion where comfort and sweetness meet.
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Sour Cream Apple Pie with Brown Sugar Streusel Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Sour Cream Apple Pie with Brown Sugar Streusel features a crisp pie crust filled with tart Granny Smith apples tossed in a smooth sour cream mixture, topped with a buttery brown sugar streusel. Baked to golden perfection, this dessert offers a delightful balance of creamy, tart, and sweet flavors, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Pie Crust
- 1 Homemade or store-bought 9-inch pie crust
Apple Filling
- 6 cups tart apples (such as Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sour cream
Brown Sugar Streusel
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 6 tablespoons cold unsalted butter, cubed
Instructions
- Prepare the pie crust. Roll out your pie dough and press it evenly into a 9-inch pie dish. Chill the crust in the refrigerator while preparing the filling to prevent shrinking and ensure a crisp base.
- Make the apple filling. Peel, core, and slice the apples evenly. Toss them with lemon juice, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and flour to help thicken the juices released during baking. Gently fold in the sour cream to create a smooth, creamy filling.
- Prepare the streusel topping. Combine the brown sugar, flour, and cold cubed butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until crumbly. This topping will bake into a crisp, buttery crust.
- Assemble the pie. Pour the apple and sour cream filling into the chilled pie crust. Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar streusel over the top, covering the filling while allowing some apples to peek through.
- Bake the pie. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 50-60 minutes or until the streusel topping is golden and the filling bubbles. Place a baking sheet underneath to catch any drips and rotate the pie halfway through baking for even cooking.
- Cool and serve. Allow the pie to cool for at least two hours to let the filling set properly before slicing. Serve slightly warm or at room temperature for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Using tart apples like Granny Smith provides a perfect balance of acidity against the sweet streusel topping.
- Chilling the pie crust before baking helps prevent it from shrinking and maintains a crisp texture.
- Make sure the butter used in the streusel topping is very cold; this helps create the crumbly texture.
- Letting the pie cool completely is essential for the filling to set and makes slicing cleaner.
- To avoid spillage, bake the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
