There’s something undeniably magical about a homemade pie, especially when it involves warm, spiced apples and luscious salted caramel dripping over the top. Salted Caramel Apple Pie is a delightful dessert that embodies the heart and soul of comfort food. Picture this: a flaky crust cradling juicy apple slices mingled with cinnamon, sugar, and indulgent salted caramel sauce, all baked to golden perfection. It’s a dessert that warms your heart and satisfies your sweet tooth, making it perfect for gatherings with family and friends.
Did you know that apple pie dates back to the 14th century? That’s right! This classic dessert has stood the test of time, evolving into endless variations, like this irresistible caramel-infused take. Whether you’re revisiting a cherished family recipe or creating a new tradition this fall, Salted Caramel Apple Pie is a must-try. With its simple preparation and quick baking time, you’ll have a scrumptious dessert ready in no time. So let’s dive in, shall we?
What is Salted Caramel Apple Pie?
So, what’s in a name? You might wonder how “Salted Caramel Apple Pie” came to be! It’s a dish that’s as delightful to say as it is to eat. The main elements—apple, pie, and caramel—are obvious, but let’s not forget a pinch of salt that elevates this dessert to extraordinary levels! Imagine food critic Julia Child saying, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” but I daresay through this salted caramel pie, you might just capture everyone’s heart! If you’ve ever indulged in a plain apple pie and thought it was good, this version will have you singing its praises. So why not roll up your sleeves and give this pie a whirl?
Why You’ll Love This Salted Caramel Apple Pie
Salted Caramel Apple Pie is a crowd-pleaser for numerous reasons! First and foremost, the star of the show is the harmonious blend of sweet and salty flavors that awaken your taste buds. Picture warm, gooey caramel oozing from tender cinnamon-spiced apples nestled in a buttery crust—wow! Plus, making this pie at home is budget-friendly, ensuring you can impress guests without breaking the bank.
Moreover, the toppings elevate this dessert to heroic status. Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream atop a warm slice of pie? Yes, please! Unlike traditional apple pie, this one features that delicious salted caramel, which adds a unique twist and transforms it into a memorable experience. If you love sharing hearty, comforting dishes like pecan pie with loved ones, this caramel apple marvel is another worthy contender. Get ready to savor and share your new favorite dessert!
How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie
Quick Overview
Creating your own Salted Caramel Apple Pie is simpler than you might think! With a flaky homemade crust, tender apple filling, and silky salted caramel, this pie is sure to impress. In under an hour, you’ll have the perfect dessert for any occasion. It’s easy, delicious, and incredibly satisfying—what’s not to love?
Key Ingredients for Salted Caramel Apple Pie
- For the Pie Crust:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter (cold, diced)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 6-8 tablespoons ice water
- For the Apple Filling:
- 6 cups apples (peeled, cored, and sliced; use a mix of tart and sweet)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- For the Salted Caramel:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prepare the Pie Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold, diced butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add ice water, stirring until the dough just comes together. Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Make the Salted Caramel: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly until it transforms into an amber-colored liquid. Carefully stir in the butter until melted, then add the heavy cream and salt. Stir until combined, and remove from heat. Let it cool slightly.
- Prepare the Apple Filling: In a large bowl, combine the apple slices with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss until evenly coated.
- Assemble the Pie: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a pie dish. Fill it with the apple mixture and drizzle half of the cooled salted caramel over the apples. Roll out the second pie crust, cut slits for ventilation, and cover the pie. Seal the edges and brush with a little egg wash for a golden finish.
- Bake the Pie: Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 35-45 minutes or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden. Let it cool slightly before serving.
- Serve with Caramel: Drizzle the remaining salted caramel over individual slices when serving.
What to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie With
While this pie is delightful all on its own, serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream elevates the experience. You could also pair it with a hot cup of spiced cider or a rich cup of coffee, making it the perfect end to a cozy fall meal. If you’re hosting a gathering, consider serving it alongside traditional favorites like pumpkin pie or pecan pie for a complete dessert buffet that will have everyone buzzing!
Top Tips for Perfecting Salted Caramel Apple Pie
- Choose the Right Apples: For the best flavor and texture, opt for a mix of sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
- Keep It Chilled: Ensure your butter and water for the crust are cold. This keeps the dough flaky.
- Don’t Skip the Salt: Adding a touch of salt in the caramel is essential for balancing the sweetness!
- Be Patient While Baking: Allow the pie to cool before slicing, as this helps the filling set.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To store your leftover Salted Caramel Apple Pie, cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing it by wrapping it tightly in freezer-safe wrap; this way, it can last for up to three months. To reheat, simply place a slice in a microwave for about 20-30 seconds or rewarm it in an oven set to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it’s heated through before serving with your favorite fresh caramel sauce.
Now that you have the ultimate guide to making Salted Caramel Apple Pie, it’s time to dig in! Whether you bake it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, this pie is bound to impress. Happy baking!
Salted Caramel Apple Pie
Ingredients
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and sugar.
- Add the cold, diced butter and mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice water, stirring until the dough just comes together.
- Divide into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly until it becomes an amber-colored liquid.
- Carefully stir in the butter until melted, then add the heavy cream and salt.
- Stir until combined and remove from heat. Let cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, combine the apple slices with sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
- Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Roll out one pie crust and fit it into a pie dish.
- Fill with the apple mixture and drizzle half of the cooled salted caramel over the apples.
- Roll out the second pie crust, cut slits for ventilation, and cover the pie.
- Seal the edges and brush with a little egg wash for a golden finish.
- Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake for an additional 35-45 minutes or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
- Drizzle the remaining salted caramel over individual slices when serving.
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