Introduction
There's something magical about the combination of caramel and apples, especially when wrapped in a flaky pie crust. This Deliciously Rich Caramel Apple Pie recipe takes the classic dessert to new heights, creating a sweet and indulgent treat that will delight your family and friends.
As the seasons change, the warmth of cinnamon and the rich aroma of caramel wafting from your oven will fill your kitchen with comfort and nostalgia. Perfect for gatherings, holidays, or simply a cozy night in, this pie is worth every bit of effort.
With perfectly spiced apples and a luscious caramel sauce, this pie delivers a symphony of flavors and textures. Get ready to impress with a dessert that’s not just a feast for the taste buds, but a visual delight as well.
Ingredients
- 6 cups tart apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 tablespoon butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade if preferred)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Directions & Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your pie crust will bake up golden and flaky.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are well coated in the mixture, allowing them to release their juices.
- Add the caramel sauce to the apple mixture and stir gently to incorporate, creating a rich and gooey filling. Set aside for about 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan, ensuring there are no cracks. Leave a bit of overhang to crimp later.
- Pour the apple and caramel filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Dot the filling with the butter pieces to add richness and depth.
- Cover the pie with the second pie crust, crimping the edges to seal the filling inside. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush the top with the beaten egg for a beautiful golden finish.
- Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 30 minutes. This cooling time allows the filling to set up a bit more.
- Before serving, drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top for an added touch of decadence. Slice and enjoy your deliciously rich caramel apple pie!
FAQs
What type of apples are best for caramel apple pie?
Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well, balancing the sweetness of the caramel.
What can I do if my caramel sauce is too thick?
You can gently warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop to achieve a pourable consistency.
Can I use a different type of sugar for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute coconut sugar or a sugar alternative, but the flavor may vary slightly.
What should I do if my pie crust is cracking?
Ensure your dough is well-chilled and handle it gently. If cracks occur, patch them with a bit of extra dough.
How can I tell if my pie is done baking?
Look for a golden crust and bubbling filling; you can also insert a knife into the apples to check for tenderness.
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and pie crust separately and assemble just before baking.
How can I make the pie more caramel-flavored?
Increase the amount of caramel sauce in the filling or drizzle more on top before serving.
Conclusion
This Deliciously Rich Caramel Apple Pie is not just a dessert; it's a celebration of flavors that bring warmth and joy. The combination of sweet caramel and tart apples encased in a flaky crust makes for an irresistible treat.
Whether served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this pie is sure to become a cherished recipe in your collection. Embrace the process, enjoy the aromas, and savor every bite!
Recipe Card
Deliciously Rich Caramel Apple Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 cups tart apples peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce plus extra for drizzling
- 1 tablespoon butter cut into small pieces
- 1 package refrigerated pie crusts or homemade if preferred
- 1 egg beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures that your pie crust will bake up golden and flaky.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice. Toss until the apples are well coated in the mixture, allowing them to release their juices.
- Add the caramel sauce to the apple mixture and stir gently to incorporate, creating a rich and gooey filling. Set aside for about 15 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan, ensuring there are no cracks. Leave a bit of overhang to crimp later.
- Pour the apple and caramel filling into the prepared pie crust, spreading it evenly. Dot the filling with the butter pieces to add richness and depth.
- Cover the pie with the second pie crust, crimping the edges to seal the filling inside. Cut a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush the top with the beaten egg for a beautiful golden finish.
- Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
- Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 30 minutes. This cooling time allows the filling to set up a bit more.
- Before serving, drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top for an added touch of decadence. Slice and enjoy your deliciously rich caramel apple pie!
Notes
Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for balance.
For make-ahead, prep components separately and assemble just before heating to preserve texture.
Taste and adjust with acid (lemon/vinegar) and salt right at the end to wake up flavors.