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Simple Scandinavian Apple Pie Recipe

A rustic and comforting Scandinavian-style apple pie with a tender, spiced apple filling and a buttery, crumbly crust—no rolling required! Inspired by traditional Swedish desserts, this easy recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6
Cuisine: Chinese
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Crust
  • 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 0.75 cup unsalted butter cold, cubed
Filling
  • 4 cups apples peeled, cored, and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
  • 0.5 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 0.25 teaspoon ground cardamom optional but traditional
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Method
 

Steps
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish or springform pan.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the flour and sugar for the crust. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  3. Press about two-thirds of the crust mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of the prepared pie dish.
  4. In another bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, cardamom, and lemon juice until evenly coated.
  5. Spoon the apple filling into the crust-lined dish, spreading it evenly.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining crust mixture over the top of the apples, creating a rustic, crumbly topping.
  7. Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender when pierced with a knife.
  8. Let cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Notes

This Scandinavian apple pie is intentionally rustic—no lattice or perfect crust required! The crumbly topping mimics traditional Swedish 'smulpaj' (crumb pie). For extra authenticity, serve with a glass of cold milk or a cup of strong coffee.