Make the filling: Peel and slice the apples. In a medium bowl, mix them with the brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, lemon juice and lemon zest. Then pour the filling into a round 9-inch pie pan, 9 x 9 inch baking dish or 7 x 11 baking dish.
Make the topping: Meanwhile, in another large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking soda, and salt. Stir in the melted butter, egg yolk, and vanilla extract and stir until it forms crumbles (you may need to help with your hands, but resist the urge to mix too much). Place the pieces onto the apples. Sprinkle with the 1 tablespoon granulated sugar.
Bake: Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the top is evenly golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Cool for about 30 minutes, then serve. You can leave it out on the counter for up to 1 day (covered, at night). After 1 day, refrigerate any leftovers. It also freezes well for several months in a sealed container; reheat it in a 350°F oven until bubbly and the topping is crisp.