She Thought It Was Just a Sweet Family Photo — Until the Truth Came Into Focus (and a Sweet Surprise Pie Was Born!)

Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts to the crumble topping.

Salted Caramel Twist: Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the pie before baking.

Berry Blend: Replace half the apples with mixed berries for a tangier flavor.

Mini Pies: Make individual hand pies using muffin tins for cute, personal servings.

FAQ:

Q: Can I use store-bought crust?
A: Absolutely! A pre-made crust works great when you’re short on time.

Q: What are the best apples to use?
A: Granny Smith for tartness, Honeycrisp for sweetness, or a mix of both for balance.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use plant-based butter and coconut caramel for a delicious dairy-free version.

Q: How do I keep the crust from getting soggy?
A: Brush the crust with a thin layer of egg white before adding the filling — it creates a barrier that helps it stay crisp.