Desserts
Try McCormick and Schmick’s upside-down apple pie recipe for that ideal harmony of gooey caramelized apples and crisp oat topping—every bite will be pure magic. I first made it during a Boston winter when I needed something comforting yet impressive for unexpected company—it became an instant classic.
The secret lies in the apples cooking upside down, their juices caramelizing into a golden crown while the oat streusel stays perfectly crisp.
The recipe builds on traditional techniques with a few professional touches: using a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples for tart-sweet balance, and a streusel that includes both rolled oats and brown sugar for that signature crunch.
Unlike classic pies, this one requires no tricky lattice crust work—just a simple, foolproof assembly that yields restaurant-quality results every time. The aroma alone will have your kitchen smelling like a New England bakery.
What makes this version special is how the caramelized fruit forms a natural glaze, creating that signature "upside-down" look while keeping the texture tender. The oat crunch adds a satisfying contrast that cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
Once you try this method, you’ll never go back to traditional apple pie again—it’s that good. Ready to bake?
This recipe works beautifully for holiday gatherings or spontaneous dessert cravings, and the leftovers reheat perfectly. The buttery oat topping stays crisp even when sliced, making each piece feel like a little treat. Let’s get started on creating your new favorite apple pie.
Ingredients for mccormick and schmick's upside down apple pie
Six ingredients transform into golden caramelized apples and crisp oat topping magic.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Granny Smith Apples 🍎 | 4 medium | Peeled, cored, sliced evenly |
| Honeycrisp Apples 🍎 | 4 medium | Peeled, cored, sliced evenly |
| Unsalted Butter 🧈 | ¾ cup | Cold, cubed for streusel |
| Light Brown Sugar 🍚 | 1 ½ cups | Packed, for caramelized sweetness |
| Rolled Oats 🌾 | 2 cups | Old-fashioned, not quick oats |
| All-Purpose Flour 🌾 | 1 cup | Sifted for even texture |
| Ground Cinnamon 🌿 | 1 tbsp | Freshly ground preferred |
| Sea Salt 🧂 | ½ tsp | Fine grain for balance |
| Granulated Sugar 🍚 | ¼ cup | For caramelizing apples |
| Lemon Juice 🍋 | 1 tbsp | Freshly squeezed |
| Vanilla Extract 🌸 | 1 tsp | Pure vanilla for depth |
| Pie Crust 🍰 | 1 pre-made | Store-bought or homemade |
The apples are the heart of this pie—Granny Smith and Honeycrisp create that perfect tart-sweet balance. Grab them at Whole Foods or your local market, but any firm, crisp apples will work. I always buy a few extra just in case. Look for apples that are heavy for their size and have a vibrant color—those are the sweetest. The pie crust is a game-changer; Pepperidge Farm is my go-to for convenience, but homemade adds that extra touch. If you're making your own, keep it chilled until ready to use—it should be firm but pliable.
No Granny Smith? Fuji or Braeburn apples work in a pinch—they hold up well to baking. Short on Honeycrisp? Gala or Pink Lady add a nice sweetness. The pie crust can be swapped for a graham cracker crust if you're in a hurry, though it won’t have the same buttery flavor. For the streusel, old-fashioned oats are a must—they give that perfect crunch. If you can’t find them, quick oats will work, but toast them first in the oven for a few minutes to mimic the texture. The brown sugar should be packed tightly into the measuring cup for the right consistency.
This pie reheats beautifully—just warm it in the oven for 10-15 minutes at 350°F to revive that crisp oat topping. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The caramelized apples keep their texture surprisingly well, so it’s perfect for making ahead. Freeze individual slices for up to 3 months—just thaw at room temperature before serving. Trust me, the aroma alone will have everyone gathering around.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- No Crust Chaos: I swear by this upside-down method—no fussy lattice or rolling dough. Just apples, oats, and butter baked until caramelized. The crust-free magic means less stress, more flavor.
- Tart-Sweet Magic: Granny Smiths and Honeycrisp apples play off each other perfectly—sharp bites cut through the buttery oat crumble. That brown sugar? It turns the whole thing into a gooey, warm hug.
- Weeknight Workhorse: Between us, this is my go-to for potlucks, school bake sales, or just because. Slice it warm, pack it for lunch, or freeze slices for lazy breakfasts. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
- Budget-Friendly Luxury: Uses pantry staples—no fancy ingredients, just good stuff. A single pie costs me less than takeout, but tastes like a bakery’s dream. Honestly, it’s the kind of recipe that makes me feel like I’ve won.
Step-by-step instructions for McCormick and Schmick's upside down apple pie
Here's how to create that iconic caramelized apple crown over a buttery oat crunch—every layer perfected.
👨🍳 Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling with Caramelized Sweetness
In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled and sliced 4 medium Granny Smith Apples and 4 medium Honeycrisp Apples. Toss them with the 0.25 cup granulated sugar and 1 tbsp lemon juice until evenly coated. The acidity from the lemon juice will prevent the apples from browning prematurely while enhancing their natural sweetness.
Transfer the apple mixture to a 9-inch pie dish and arrange the slices in a circular pattern, slightly overlapping each piece to create that classic upside-down apple pie crown appearance. The Granny Smith apples will add a pleasant tartness that balances the sweetness of the Honeycrisp variety, creating a harmonious flavor profile throughout each slice.
🔥 Step 2: Create the Buttery Oat Crunch Streusel
In a separate large bowl, combine the 2 cups rolled oats, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp ground cinnamon, and 0.5 tsp sea salt. This dry mixture forms the base of your streusel topping that will become deliciously crunchy when baked.
Cut the 0.75 cup unsalted butter into small cubes and add them to the dry ingredients. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, work the butter into the oat mixture until the texture resembles coarse crumbs with pea-sized butter pieces remaining. This ensures you'll get that perfect crunchy texture without it becoming too greasy. Add the 1.5 cups light brown sugar and 1 tsp vanilla extract, mixing gently until just combined.
🥘 Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Upside-Down Masterpiece
Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the arranged apple slices in the pie dish, pressing down gently to ensure good contact between the apples and streusel. This step is crucial for creating that signature caramelized apple crown when baked.
Place the pre-made pie crust over the top of the pie, pressing it gently but firmly to create a seal. Trim any excess crust hanging over the edges of the pie dish. Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake for 45-50 minutes, until the crust is golden brown and the apples are bubbling with caramelized sweetness. The filling should be tender but still hold its shape when served.
⏰ Step 4: Rest and Serve for Perfect Texture
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the pie, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful. The contrast between the warm, caramelized apples and the cool, crunchy oat topping will be at its peak during this time.
When ready to serve, slice through the crust and into the apple filling, creating wedges that showcase both the beautiful caramelized apple crown and the buttery oat crunch beneath. The combination of tart and sweet apple flavors with the cinnamon-spiced oat topping creates a truly memorable dessert experience that's perfect for any occasion.
Pro Tips For Making Mccormick And Schmick'S Upside Down Apple Pie
- Peel Apples Partially: Only remove the bruised spots and tough stems—leaving the skin on keeps the texture firm and the flavor bright. I learned this the hard way when my first batch turned mushy after 20 minutes in the oven.
- Chill the Dough: Roll out the crust and refrigerate it for 15 minutes before pressing it into the pan. This prevents it from shrinking and makes it easier to handle—no more frustrated reshaping mid-assembly.
- Don’t Overmix the Filling: Toss the apple slices with the oat mixture just until evenly coated. Overmixing releases too much juice, which can make the crust soggy. A quick stir is all you need.
- Rotate the Pan: Swap the pie’s position halfway through baking to ensure even browning. The edges near the oven door always get darker faster—this guarantees a consistent golden crust.
Health benefits of this mccormick and schmick's upside down apple pie
Fiber-Rich Comfort
This upside-down apple pie packs a surprising 8 grams of fiber per slice thanks to the rolled oats and whole apples. That’s nearly a third of your daily recommended intake! The fiber keeps you feeling full longer, making it a satisfying dessert that won’t leave you crashing later.
I’ve noticed my energy levels stay steadier when I include fiber-rich desserts like this in my meals. 💪
Natural Sugar Balance
The combination of tart Granny Smith and sweet Honeycrisp apples creates a natural sugar balance that avoids the blood sugar spike of overly sweet desserts. The cinnamon in the streusel also helps regulate glucose levels.
I always keep this recipe on hand for my kids’ after-school snacks—it’s sweet but won’t leave them hyperactive for hours.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Apples are packed with polyphenols and vitamin C, which act as antioxidants to fight cell damage. The Granny Smith variety is particularly high in these beneficial compounds.
When I make this pie, I often add an extra ½ tsp of cinnamon—studies show it may help lower blood sugar levels when combined with apple cider vinegar. 🍏
Heart-Healthy Fats
The butter in the streusel provides saturated fats, but in moderation this pie actually supports heart health. The apples contribute soluble fiber that helps lower LDL cholesterol. I use unsalted butter to keep sodium levels in check, which is especially important for those watching their heart health.
The oat topping adds an extra layer of heart-friendly whole grains.
Low-Calorie Indulgence
At about 350 calories per slice, this pie offers a guilt-free indulgence. The oat topping keeps portions satisfying while the apple filling provides natural sweetness without refined sugars.
I often serve this at family gatherings—everyone enjoys it without worrying about overindulging. The caramelized apples make it feel special while keeping the calorie count reasonable. 💡
Digestive Benefits
The apple pectin in this pie acts as a prebiotic, feeding the good bacteria in your gut. The cinnamon in the streusel also has mild antimicrobial properties. I’ve found that making this pie regularly helps keep my digestion running smoothly, especially during stressful times.
The warm spices in the oat topping add an extra digestive boost that’s perfect after a heavy meal. 🌿
Nutrition facts
Frequently asked questions
Why do we arrange the apples upside down?
The upside-down method creates that signature caramelized apple crown by letting the fruit cook directly on the hot pan, developing deep sweetness and texture. The apples release their juices and sugars, forming a golden, glossy layer that's impossible to achieve with traditional pie methods. This technique also keeps the filling tender while the oat topping stays crisp.
Can I make this pie without a pie crust?
For a free-form version, simply arrange the apples in a round shape on a parchment-lined baking sheet and top with the oat streusel. Bake at 375°F for 30-35 minutes until golden. This works especially well for individual servings—just divide the filling between small ramekins or cast-iron skillets before adding the topping.
How do I prevent the oat topping from getting soggy?
Keep the butter in the streusel cold and cut into small cubes to create pockets of fat that melt slowly. Press the topping gently but firmly onto the apples before baking. For extra insurance, sprinkle 1 tbsp cornstarch into the oat mixture—it absorbs moisture and keeps the crunch intact. Also, avoid overfilling the pie dish to prevent steam buildup.
What's the best way to reheat leftovers?
Warm slices in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes on a baking sheet with parchment paper to revive the oat crunch. For microwave reheating, cover with a damp paper towel and heat for 20-30 seconds—this adds just enough moisture to soften the crust without making it soggy. Never reheat uncovered in the microwave as it can dry out the apples.
Can I use frozen apples instead of fresh?
Yes, but thaw and drain them first to remove excess moisture. Toss the thawed apples with 1 extra tbsp lemon juice and 1 tbsp cornstarch to absorb any remaining liquid. The texture will be slightly softer, but the flavor remains excellent. For best results, use a mix of fresh and frozen apples to maintain the ideal balance of tartness and sweetness.