Caramel Apple Pie Dessert

If you’re looking for a dessert that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, look no further than this Caramel Apple Pie Dessert. There’s something magical about the combination of tender apples and luscious caramel, all nestled in a flaky crust. This recipe has been a family favorite for years, perfect for cozy gatherings and those busy weeknights when you just want something sweet to brighten your day. Trust me, every bite will remind you of fall afternoons spent picking apples and enjoying homemade treats.

Whether it’s a holiday celebration or just a casual dinner with friends, this pie brings everyone together. It’s such a joy to watch the smiles as they take their first bite. So grab your apron, and let’s get started on creating this delightful dessert!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Caramel Apple Pie Dessert can be prepared with simple steps, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Family Favorite: The sweet blend of caramel and apples is loved by both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the crust and filling in advance, making it easy to whip up on special occasions.
• Deliciously Versatile: Customize it with different apple varieties or toppings based on what you love!
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just an ordinary Tuesday, this pie fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this Caramel Apple Pie Dessert is half the fun! You’ll find that these are simple, wholesome items that come together beautifully.

For the Crust

• 2 1/2 cups (325g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (224g) cold unsalted butter, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
• 4-8 tablespoons cold ice water

For the Caramel Sauce

• 1 cup (207g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120ml) water
• 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/2-1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons (16g) all-purpose flour

For the Apple Filling

• 2 1/2 pounds Granny Smith apples (4-5 large apples), peeled, cored, and sliced
• 2 1/2 pounds Honeycrisp apples (4-5 large apples), peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 cup (112g) packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup (104g) granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup (43g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Topping

• 1 large egg, beaten
• Coarse sugar for topping

Variations

This Caramel Apple Pie Dessert is quite flexible! Feel free to play around with these variations to make it your own.

• Try Different Apples: Swap in your favorite apple varieties like Fuji or Braeburn for unique flavors.
• Add Spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of warmth and spice.
• Nutty Crunch: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts into the apple filling for added texture.
• Go Gluten-Free: Substitute with a gluten-free flour mix to make this pie suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.

How to Make Caramel Apple Pie Dessert

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by combining 1 1/2 cups of flour with salt in a food processor. Pulse it until mixed well. Add cold butter and process until you see a crumbly texture. It’s essential to keep everything cold so that your crust remains flaky! Lightly mix in the remaining flour before transferring it to a bowl. Gradually add ice water until the dough forms. Divide it into two discs, wrap them up, and refrigerate for at least an hour. This resting time allows the gluten to relax and makes rolling out easier later.

Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce

In a saucepan over medium heat, bring granulated sugar and water to a boil until dissolved. Then add butter and cook until it turns a beautiful golden copper color. Be sure to stir continuously! Once done, remove from heat and whisk in heavy cream along with vanilla extract and salt. The addition of flour will thicken it up nicely! Let this caramel cool completely; it will become even more delicious as it sets.

Step 3: Prepare the Apples

Toss your freshly sliced apples with lemon juice right away to prevent browning. In another bowl, combine sugars with flour and salt before coating the apple slices evenly. This mixture helps sweeten them while also thickening any juices released during cooking. Cook this mixture in a large skillet until the apples are fork-tender but not mushy—this step enhances their natural sweetness!

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

Roll out one disc of dough onto a floured surface for your bottom crust. Place it gently into your 9-inch pie plate, trimming any excess edges. Layer your prepared apple filling first, then drizzle generously with caramel sauce—this is where the magic happens!

Step 5: Create Your Top Crust

Roll out your second disc of dough to create either a lattice top or simply vented openings so steam can escape while baking. Seal those edges well; we want our delicious filling contained! Brush your top crust with beaten egg before sprinkling coarse sugar to add some sparkle.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake your pie on a preheated baking sheet for about 15 minutes until golden brown on top. Then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 50-60 minutes until everything is bubbling nicely inside.

Step 7: Cool & Serve

Once baked, let your pie cool completely before slicing—this allows all those lovely layers to set beautifully! Serve each slice warm or at room temperature with an extra drizzle of caramel if you’re feeling indulgent!

Enjoy sharing this delightful Caramel Apple Pie Dessert with family and friends; I know they’ll love it as much as I do!

Pro Tips for Making Caramel Apple Pie Dessert

Making the perfect Caramel Apple Pie Dessert can be a delightful experience if you keep a few handy tips in mind!

• Use cold ingredients: Keeping your butter and water cold helps create a flaky crust that is both tender and delicious. The colder they are, the better your dough will hold together and rise.
• Don’t rush the caramel: Allowing the sugar to cook until it reaches a golden copper color gives your caramel a deep flavor. If you take it off too soon, it may taste more like sugar syrup than rich caramel.
• Mix apple varieties: Combining Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples brings a wonderful balance of tartness and sweetness to your filling. This variety makes every bite interesting and flavorful!
• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing the pie to cool completely helps the filling set, making it easier to slice without spilling. Plus, it enhances the flavors as they meld together!
• Experiment with spices: Adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to your apple mixture can elevate your dessert even further by introducing warm, comforting aromas.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Pie Dessert

Presenting your Caramel Apple Pie Dessert can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your serving game.

Garnishes

• Whipped cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds lightness and creaminess that pairs beautifully with the rich caramel and apples.
• Caramel drizzle: A bit more caramel drizzled on top not only looks beautiful but also intensifies that luscious caramel flavor.
• Chopped nuts: Sprinkling some toasted pecans or walnuts on top can add texture and a delightful crunch to each bite.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream provides a creamy contrast to the warm pie, enhancing both flavor and texture.
• Spiced cider: A warm mug of spiced apple cider complements this dessert perfectly, bringing cozy fall vibes to your table.
• Simple green salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, sliced apples, and a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the sweetness of the pie.
• Cheese platter: Pairing your pie with slices of sharp cheddar or creamy brie introduces savory notes that contrast nicely with the sweet flavors of dessert.

Enjoy creating and sharing this delectable Caramel Apple Pie Dessert!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Caramel Apple Pie Dessert is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the delightful flavors of fall anytime. Whether you’re planning for a special occasion or just want to have some sweet treats on hand, this recipe can be made ahead of time and stored easily.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the pie to cool completely before storing.
• Cover the pie with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the pie cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, slice before freezing so individual pieces can be easily thawed.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the pie in the oven for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious dessert!

Can I make Caramel Apple Pie Dessert without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy cream alternative. This will still give you a rich flavor without using animal-derived products.

How do I make the best Caramel Apple Pie Dessert?

For the best results, use a mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. Don’t skip on cooling your caramel sauce completely; this will enhance its flavor and texture!

Can I prepare Caramel Apple Pie Dessert in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it one day ahead and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully!

What is the ideal way to serve Caramel Apple Pie Dessert?

Serve warm with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream or whipped coconut cream for an extra treat that complements the caramel and apple flavors perfectly.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Caramel Apple Pie Dessert as much as I do! The combination of tender apples drizzled with luscious caramel encased in a flaky crust is like a warm hug on a plate. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or savoring during a cozy night in. Happy baking, and may every slice bring joy to your table!