This Easy Green Tomato Crumble Pie is a fun twist on traditional pie! It uses tart green tomatoes blended with sugar and spices, all topped with a crispy crumble.
Honestly, who knew green tomatoes could taste so good in dessert? I love serving it warm with a scoop of ice cream. It’s like a secret treat from grandma’s kitchen! 🍏🥧
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Green Tomatoes: These are the star of the pie and provide a lovely tang. If you can’t find them, you could try unripe tomatoes, but be aware that they might not have the same flavor. Some folks even use rhubarb for a similar tartness!
Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the filling. If you’re looking for a healthier option, consider coconut sugar or maple syrup. Just adjust the amount as needed, since they can be sweeter or have different moisture content.
Cinnamon & Nutmeg: These spices add warmth to your pie. For a twist, try adding ginger or cardamom to extend the flavor profile. Experimenting with spices can make the pie uniquely yours!
Butter: Cold butter helps create that flaky crumble. If you need a dairy-free version, you can substitute with coconut oil or vegan butter, keeping the crust deliciously crumbly.
How Do You Make the Crumble Topping Just Right?
Making the perfect crumble topping is all about getting the texture right. Aim for a coarse crumb that will create a lovely, crunchy layer on top of your pie.
- Mix the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl thoroughly.
- When adding cold butter, use a pastry blender or two forks to cut it in. It’s okay if there are some pea-sized pieces of butter left; they create flakiness during baking.
- If using nuts, chop them coarsely before adding so that they blend well into the topping without overpowering the texture.
Remember, this topping is forgiving! If you want it chunkier, don’t work it as much. Just have fun with it! Your pie will taste just as good no matter the texture.
Easy Green Tomato Crumble Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 5 cups thinly sliced green tomatoes (about 6 medium)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, helps thicken filling)
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup butter, cold and cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional, e.g., pecans or walnuts)
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious pie takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 40-45 minutes to bake. Allow a little extra time for cooling before serving. Altogether, you can expect to spend about 1 hour for the preparation and cooking combined, making it a quick and easy dessert.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This is important to ensure your pie bakes evenly and the crumble gets that perfect crunch!
2. Mix the Tomato Filling:
In a large mixing bowl, take your thinly sliced green tomatoes and add the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, lemon juice, and optional flour. Gently toss everything together until the tomatoes are well coated with the mixture. This helps enhance the flavor while thickening the filling slightly!
3. Assemble the Pie:
Pour the seasoned tomato mixture into a greased 9-inch pie dish, spreading it out evenly so every slice will be delicious. This layer is packed with flavor!
4. Make the Crumble Topping:
In another bowl, mix the flour, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon together. Next, cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or two forks until the mixture is crumbly and resembles coarse crumbs. If you’re adding nuts, mix them in now. This topping adds a wonderful crunch to your pie!
5. Top the Pie:
Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the green tomato filling. Make sure to cover as much of the filling as possible, so it’s all hidden under a flavorful crust!
6. Bake the Pie:
Place your pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the topping turns a lovely golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Keep an eye on it toward the end to prevent burning!
7. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. This makes it easier to cut and serve! Enjoy your pie warm, and for an extra treat, try it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream!
Now, sit back, savor, and enjoy this delightful twist on dessert that highlights the unique flavor of green tomatoes!
FAQ about Easy Green Tomato Crumble Pie
Can I Use Ripe Tomatoes Instead of Green Tomatoes?
While this recipe is specifically designed for green tomatoes to achieve that tangy flavor, you can use unripe ripe tomatoes if you wish. Just know that the sweetness will be higher, so adjust the sugar to taste!
Can I Make the Pie Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and the crumble topping separately a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge and assemble the pie right before baking to keep the topping fresh and crispy.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or enjoy it cold for a quick snack!
Can I Freeze This Pie?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked pie for up to 2 months. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. When you’re ready to bake, remove the wrapping and bake directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
