Apples and cheddar cheese are such a wonderful pairing, they often are combined in pies.

The result is deliciously sweet, with just a hint of creamy-savory for balance.

We love this combination, but we decided we could make it better. We started by adding a couple tablespoons of whiskey (we like bourbon, but go with what you prefer), which lends a wonderful aroma and richness to the juices of the apples and cheese.

Next, we replaced the usual top crust with a crumble made from crushed salted butter crackers tossed with melted butter (because, after all, more butter makes everything better) and sugar, resulting in yet another sweet-savory match.

The result is as addictive as it is beautiful.

Cheddar-whiskey apple pie with butter cracker crumble

8large baking apples (such as Fuji or Cortland), peeled, cored and sliced

2tablespoons whiskey

1/4cup packed brown sugar

1/2teaspoon cinnamon

1tablespoon cornstarch

6ounces extra-sharp cheddar cheese, cut into 1/2-inch dice

Deep-dish 9-inch pie dough

3tablespoons butter, melted

1cup salted butter crackers (such as Ritz Crackers), lightly crushed

2tablespoons granulated sugar

Heat the oven to 375 degrees. Place an empty rimmed baking sheet in the oven.

In a large bowl, combine the apples, whiskey, brown sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch and cheddar cheese. Mix well.

Fit the pie dough into a 9-inch deep-dish pie pan, folding and crimping the edge as desired. Transfer the apple mixture to the pie shell. Set aside.

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, crackers and granulated sugar. Toss well to mix, then spoon evenly over the top of the pie. Place the pie on the heated baking sheet in the oven (this helps to cook the bottom crust) and bake for 1 hour, or until the crust is golden brown and then apples are tender when pierced with the tip of a knife. Allow to cool for at least 20 minutes before slicing.

Start to finish: 1 hour (15 minutes active). Servings: 8

Nutrition information per serving: 420 calories; 170 calories from fat (40 percent of total calories); 19 g fat (10 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 40 mg cholesterol; 57 g carbohydrate; 6 g fiber; 33 g sugar; 7 g protein; 270 mg sodium.