There is something irresistibly comforting about an Apple Crumble Pie with Chocolate Ganache Recipe that brings together the classic warmth of spiced apples and the indulgent richness of smooth chocolate. This dessert is a perfect balance of tart and sweet, crunchy and creamy, making it a standout treat for any occasion. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or just to enjoy a cozy evening at home, this pie wraps the timeless appeal of apple crumble into a delightful pie format, topped with a luscious chocolate ganache that elevates every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is what makes this Apple Crumble Pie with Chocolate Ganache Recipe so accessible, yet the thoughtful combination of spices, nuts, and chocolate create a sensational flavor and texture experience you won’t forget.
- Pie crust: A sturdy base that holds all the delicious fillings, providing that flaky texture.
- 5 large Gala apples: Sweet and tender, perfect for baking and holding their shape well.
- 2 Tablespoons lemon juice: Adds brightness and prevents the apples from browning.
- 1/4 Cup all-purpose flour (for filling): Helps thicken the apple mixture as it cooks.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves: Offers a warm, earthy depth to the spice blend.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle nutty sweetness that complements the apples.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: The quintessential flavor in apple desserts, warming and aromatic.
- 1/2 Cup sugar: Provides classic sweetness to balance the tartness of the apples.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors and adds a touch of creaminess.
- 1/2 Cup light brown sugar: Used in the crumble topping for a deep, caramel note.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for topping): Adds spice to the topping for an extra punch.
- 3/4 Cup all-purpose flour (for topping): Gives the crumble its signature sandy texture.
- 3/4 Cup chopped walnuts: Brings crunch and a pleasant nutty flavor to the topping.
- 1/3 Cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled): Binds the crumble topping ingredients together and adds richness.
- 1/2 Cup semi-sweet chocolate chips: For the silky ganache that offers that divine chocolate finish.
- 1/4 Cup heavy whipping cream: Blends with the chocolate to create the smooth ganache topping.
How to Make Apple Crumble Pie with Chocolate Ganache Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pie Crust and Apples
Start by setting your pie crust aside, ready for filling. Peel and core the Gala apples, then slice them into even pieces. Toss the slices with lemon juice to keep them fresh and bright. This first step ensures the base and filling are perfectly prepped for a balanced, flavorful pie.
Step 2: Mix the Spiced Apple Filling
In a large bowl, combine the flour, ground cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla extract. Add the sliced apples and toss gently to coat every slice with the spiced mixture. This blend of spices isn’t just aromatic; it’s the very soul of the Apple Crumble Pie with Chocolate Ganache Recipe, giving it that unmistakable cozy warmth.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
Pour the spiced apple filling into the pie crust, spreading it out evenly. This layer should glisten with juicy apple slices perfectly coated in that flavorful mixture. The even layer ensures every bite offers that comforting apple experience.
Step 4: Create the Walnut Crumble Topping
In a bowl, mix brown sugar, cinnamon, flour, and chopped walnuts. Pour the melted butter over the mixture, stirring until crumbly bits form. Sprinkle this topping generously over the apple filling, giving the pie a gorgeous crunchy contrast that’s essential to its name and appeal.
Step 5: Bake the Pie to Perfection
Place the pie in a preheated oven and bake for approximately 55 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. This is the moment where all the flavors meld together, filling your kitchen with that nostalgic apple-spice aroma.
Step 6: Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
While the pie bakes, gently heat the heavy whipping cream until it just begins to simmer. Pour the warm cream over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy. This luscious ganache will provide the decadent finishing touch that sets this pie apart.
Step 7: Add the Chocolate Ganache Topping
Once the pie has cooled slightly, drizzle or spread the chocolate ganache over the crumble topping. The contrast of the rich chocolate with the crunchy apple crumble creates an unforgettable taste sensation. Allow the ganache to set before serving for the best texture.
How to Serve Apple Crumble Pie with Chocolate Ganache Recipe
Garnishes
A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements this pie beautifully. Sprinkle a few extra chopped walnuts on top to echo the topping’s crunch and add a touch of elegance and texture that guests will adore.
Side Dishes
This Apple Crumble Pie with Chocolate Ganache Recipe pairs wonderfully with a cup of spiced chai or a smooth caramel latte, balancing the sweetness and warming spices while enhancing the chocolate notes.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual slices on rustic wooden boards with a drizzle of caramel sauce around the plate. Or cut the pie into mini servings and top each with a mint leaf or a raspberry to add a pop of color and freshness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chocolate ganache may firm up, so allow the pie to come to room temperature before enjoying again for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
This pie freezes well if wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving, and refresh the chocolate ganache if needed to revive that luscious finish.
Reheating
To warm your pie, place it in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes. This helps restore the crumble’s crispiness while gently softening the filling and chocolate ganache without melting it too much.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples?
Absolutely! While Gala apples are perfect because of their sweetness and firm texture, Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples can also add a nice tartness and hold up well during baking.
Is it necessary to chill the pie after baking?
While the pie is delicious warm, chilling it allows the filling to set and the ganache to firm, making it easier to slice and serve neat portions.
Can I make the crumble topping nut-free?
Yes, simply omit the walnuts and replace them with oats or extra flour. You can also add toasted coconut flakes for added texture without nuts.
How thick should the ganache layer be?
A thin to medium layer of ganache works best so it doesn’t overpower the crumble but still gives that rich chocolate presence that makes this recipe special.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
To make a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free pie crust and substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking flour blend in both the filling and the topping.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for a dessert that feels like a warm hug and delivers an unforgettable flavor explosion, this Apple Crumble Pie with Chocolate Ganache Recipe is your new best friend. Easy to make but impressive to serve, it’s the kind of recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds and the secret behind that magical chocolate-apple combo. Give it a try and turn any ordinary day into a special occasion with every bite of this comforting delight.
Print
Apple Crumble Pie with Chocolate Ganache Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A decadent Apple Crumble Pie with a rich chocolate ganache topping, combining tender spiced apples under a crunchy walnut crumble and a smooth chocolate cream finish. Perfect for dessert lovers seeking a cozy and festive treat.
Ingredients
Pie Base & Apple Filling
- 1 pie crust
- 5 large Gala apples
- 2 Tablespoons lemon juice
- 1/4 Cup all-purpose flour (leveled)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 Cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Crumble Topping
- 1/2 Cup light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3/4 Cup all-purpose flour (leveled)
- 3/4 Cup chopped walnuts
- 1/3 Cup unsalted butter (melted and slightly cooled)
Chocolate Ganache
- 1/2 Cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
- 1/4 Cup heavy whipping cream
Instructions
- Prepare the Pie Crust
Set the pie crust aside to allow it to come to room temperature if refrigerated and prepare your workspace for assembly. - Prepare and Mix Apple Filling
Peel, core, and slice the Gala apples. Toss them immediately with lemon juice to prevent browning. In a large bowl, combine the apples with 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, ground cloves, nutmeg, 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix well to evenly coat all apple slices with the spices and flour mixture. - Make the Crumble Topping
In a separate bowl, combine light brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, and chopped walnuts. Pour in the melted and slightly cooled butter and stir until the mixture forms a crumbly texture. - Assemble and Bake the Pie
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a pie dish with the prepared pie crust. Add the apple filling evenly over the crust, then sprinkle the walnut crumble topping over the apples. Bake in the preheated oven for about 55 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the apples are tender. - Prepare the Chocolate Ganache
While the pie is baking, heat the heavy whipping cream gently until just simmering, then pour it over the semi-sweet chocolate chips in a heatproof bowl. Let sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy. - Finish and Serve
Once the pie is out of the oven and slightly cooled, drizzle the chocolate ganache over the top of the crumble or serve it warm alongside each slice for an indulgent finish.
Notes
- Use firm, tart apples like Gala for the best texture and flavor.
- Ensure the butter for the crumble is melted but not hot to properly bind the topping without melting it all.
- Do not overbake; the crumble should be golden, and apples tender but not mushy.
- Ganache can be made ahead and reheated gently before serving.
- You can substitute walnuts with pecans for a different nutty flavor.
