Caramel Apple Pie is a dessert that combines the warmth of freshly baked pie with the heavenly sweetness of caramel. Imagine biting into a buttery, flaky crust that cradles tender, spiced apples, all drizzled with luscious caramel sauce. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly autumn day, inviting you to take another slice and relive those nostalgic moments spent in Grandma’s kitchen.
Growing up, I remember the aroma wafting through our home every fall as my mother prepared her famous Caramel Apple Pie for Thanksgiving. The excitement was palpable as we gathered around the table, eager to savor each bite. Whether it’s for family gatherings or cozy nights at home, this pie brings joy and comfort to any occasion.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Caramel Apple Pie recipe is easily accessible for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
- The rich flavor profile perfectly balances sweet caramel and tart apples.
- Its golden-brown crust is visually stunning and will impress your guests at any gathering.
- You can serve it warm or cold, making it perfect for any season!
Ingredients for Caramel Apple Pie
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Apples: Use a mix of tart and sweet varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for depth of flavor.
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Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness to both the filling and caramel sauce, balancing flavors beautifully.
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Brown Sugar: Brown sugar adds richness and a slight molasses flavor to your pie’s filling.
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Cinnamon: A must-have spice that elevates the apple filling with its warm aroma.
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Pie Crust: You can opt for store-bought or homemade; just ensure it’s flaky and buttery for best results.
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Caramel Sauce: Either homemade or store-bought works well; it’s the star of this dessert!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Caramel Apple Pie
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This hot start helps create that flaky crust we all love!
Step 2: Prepare Your Apples
Peel, core, and slice about six cups of mixed apples. Toss them in a large bowl with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Feel free to channel your inner apple whisperer while mixing!
Step 3: Roll Out Your Dough
If you’re using homemade dough (which I highly recommend), roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it’s about an eighth of an inch thick. Place it into your pie dish like it’s a royal throne for your apple filling.
Step 4: Fill the Crust
Pour the apple mixture into your prepared pie crust, making sure it’s piled high because who doesn’t want more apples? Drizzle half of that glorious caramel sauce over the top before covering it with another layer of crust.
Step 5: Create Ventilation
Cut slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape (and let everyone know that something amazing is baking inside!). You can get creative here; make fun shapes or just go classic with lines.
Step 6: Bake It Up!
Bake in your preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown. Let it cool slightly before serving—if you can resist digging in right away!
Transfer slices onto plates and drizzle with remaining caramel sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Enjoy each bite of this delightful dessert!
You Must Know
- Caramel Apple Pie is more than just a dessert; it’s a hug in pie form.
- The sweet and tart apples mingle with gooey caramel, creating a flavor explosion.
- Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights, this pie will have everyone begging for seconds.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Roll out your pie crust and fit it into your pie dish. Slice the apples and toss them with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice before layering them in the crust. Drizzle with caramel sauce before placing the top crust on.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to mix things up! Swap Granny Smith apples for Honeycrisp if you’re feeling adventurous. You can also add nuts like pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch or sprinkle some sea salt on top of the caramel for that sweet-salty vibe.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover Caramel Apple Pie in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop individual slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm the entire pie in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Caramel Apple Pie, use a mix of sweet and tart apples for depth of flavor.
- Always let the pie cool to set the filling properly.
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream makes every slice even better!
I remember the first time I made Caramel Apple Pie; my friends devoured it in minutes and insisted I open a bakery. Their enthusiasm was so contagious that I almost considered it—until I realized I’d miss my couch too much!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Caramel Apple Pie?
To make a delicious Caramel Apple Pie, gather the following ingredients: fresh apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), sugar, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and caramel sauce. For the crust, you will need all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, ice water, and salt. You can also add a pinch of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor. Make sure your apples are sliced thinly for even cooking and that you have enough caramel sauce to drizzle on top before serving. With these ingredients in hand, you’re set for a delightful dessert that combines sweet and tart flavors with a rich caramel finish.
How long does it take to bake Caramel Apple Pie?
Baking Caramel Apple Pie typically takes about 45 to 60 minutes in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C). Start by baking the pie for about 15 minutes at this high temperature to help the crust become golden brown. After that, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 30 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on the pie as it bakes; if the crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil. The pie is ready when the apples are tender and the filling bubbles through the crust. Allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Can I make Caramel Apple Pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can certainly make Caramel Apple Pie ahead of time! Preparing it in advance allows the flavors to meld beautifully. You can assemble the pie and refrigerate it uncooked for up to a day before baking. Alternatively, bake it fully and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, you can reheat slices in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through. This makes it convenient for gatherings or holidays when you want to spend more time with guests instead of in the kitchen.
What is the best way to serve Caramel Apple Pie?
Serving Caramel Apple Pie is all about enhancing its delightful flavors. Start by slicing a generous piece and placing it on a plate. A scoop of vanilla ice cream on top creates a wonderful contrast with warm pie. Drizzle extra caramel sauce over both the pie and ice cream for added sweetness. Additionally, sprinkle some chopped nuts or whipped cream for texture and flavor variety. If you prefer a more sophisticated touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves or serve alongside spiced cider or coffee for an inviting dessert experience.
Conclusion for Caramel Apple Pie :
Caramel Apple Pie is a classic dessert that combines sweet and tart flavors beautifully. With fresh apples coated in cinnamon sugar and drizzled with rich caramel sauce, this pie offers layers of taste that delight every palate. The recipe requires simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it accessible even for beginner bakers. Remember that allowing your pie to cool before serving enhances its texture. Whether enjoyed warm with ice cream or cooled as is, this dessert brings comfort and joy to any occasion. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe during holidays or family gatherings; it’s sure to impress your guests!
Caramel Apple Pie
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
Description
Caramel Apple Pie is the ultimate fall dessert, blending tender spiced apples with a rich caramel sauce, all enveloped in a flaky, buttery crust. This nostalgic treat evokes warm memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed chilled, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any occasion.
Ingredients
- 6 cups mixed apples (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 prepared pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Peel, core, and slice the apples. Toss them in a bowl with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt.
- Roll out the pie crust and place it in a pie dish.
- Fill the crust with the apple mixture and drizzle half of the caramel sauce over it.
- Cover with another layer of crust and cut slits for venting.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes until the crust is golden brown and apples are tender.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving; drizzle with remaining caramel sauce.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
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