Apple Pie with Graham Cracker Crust

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because it’s easier than traditional apple pie but still full of flavor. The graham cracker crust saves time while adding a sweet crunch, and the crumb topping makes every bite buttery and rich. I also love that I can use a mix of apples for a balance of tart and sweet. It’s a pie I turn to when I want something a little different but still familiar.

Ingredients

7-8 medium apples – peeled and sliced ¼-inch thin (I used Granny Smith and Gala)
½ teaspoon (3 g) salt
4 teaspoon (20 ml) lemon juice
3 tablespoon (42 g) salted butter
½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
½ cup (110 g) light brown sugar
2 teaspoon (4 g) apple pie spice
3 tablespoon (24 g) cornstarch
1 ½ teaspoon (7 ml) pure vanilla extract
1 graham cracker crust – store-bought or homemade

Crumb Topping
1 cup (125 g) all-purpose flour
⅓ cup (73 g) light brown sugar – packed
¼ teaspoon (1 g) ground cinnamon – or apple pie spice
½ cup (114 g) salted butter – softened to room temperature
caramel sauce

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. I preheat my oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. I toss the sliced apples with salt and lemon juice in a large bowl and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, I melt the butter over medium heat, then stir in the granulated sugar, brown sugar, apple pie spice, and cornstarch.
4. I cook until the mixture thickens slightly, then stir in the vanilla extract.
5. I add the apples and cook for about 5–7 minutes, just until they begin to soften and are coated in the sauce.
6. I spoon the apple mixture into the prepared graham cracker crust, spreading it evenly.
7. For the crumb topping, I mix the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon together, then cut in the softened butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
8. I sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apples.
9. I bake for 35–40 minutes, until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
10. I let the pie cool slightly before drizzling with caramel sauce and serving.

Servings and Timing

This pie makes about 8 servings. It takes around 25 minutes to prepare and 35–40 minutes to bake, so I can have it ready in about an hour.

Variations

Sometimes I add chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumb topping for extra crunch. For a lighter version, I reduce the sugar slightly and skip the caramel drizzle. I’ve also tried using all Granny Smith apples for more tartness, or Honeycrisp for extra sweetness. If I want a spiced kick, I add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the filling.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm slices in the oven at 325°F until heated through, which keeps the crumb topping crisp. For quick reheating, I use the microwave, though the topping softens. This pie can also be frozen either whole or in slices for up to 2 months, and I thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving.

FAQs

Can I use a homemade graham cracker crust?

Yes, I often make my own with graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter.

What apples are best for this recipe?

I like a mix of Granny Smith and Gala, but Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Golden Delicious also work well.

Do I need to pre-bake the graham cracker crust?

No, I don’t need to pre-bake since the pie bakes long enough for the crust to set.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

Yes, I bake it the day before and store it covered in the fridge, then reheat before serving.

How do I keep the crumb topping crunchy?

I let the pie cool uncovered so steam doesn’t soften the topping.

Can I make this without caramel sauce?

Yes, it’s delicious on its own, but caramel adds extra sweetness and richness.

Can I use cornstarch substitutes?

Yes, flour or arrowroot powder can be used to thicken the filling.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, I use gluten-free graham crackers and flour for the topping.

How do I know when the pie is done?

I look for bubbling filling around the edges and a golden-brown crumb topping.

What can I serve with this pie?

I like pairing it with vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream.

Conclusion

This Apple Pie with Graham Cracker Crust is one of my favorite easy desserts. I love how the sweet, buttery crumb topping and crisp graham crust balance the warm, spiced apple filling. With a drizzle of caramel, it’s a dessert that feels special yet simple enough to make anytime.

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