Bacon-Crumble Apple Pie

Ingredients

• 1/2 lb sliced bacon
• 1/2 cup flour
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small cubes
• 1/2 cup extra-sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 3 golden delicious apples, peeled, cored and sliced 1/4 inch thick (about 1 1/2 pounds)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon peel, grated
• 1 (9 inch)  store-bought pie shells, prebaked according to package directions

Directions

1. 1

   Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

2. 2

   In large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp; drain and crumble.

3. 3

   In medium bowl, combine the flour and brown sugar, add the butter and, using your fingers, incorporate the butter until the mixture is crumbly.

4. 4

   Stir in the bacon and cheese; refrigerate.

5. 5

   Line a baking sheet with foil.

6. 6

   In medium bowl, toss the apples with the granulated sugar and lemon peel.

7. 7

   Transfer to the pie shell and sprinkle with the topping.

8. 8

   Place the pie on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes.

9. 9

   Cover loosely with foil and bake until golden and the apples are tender when pierced, 40-45 minutes.

10. 10

    Let cool before serving.