Caramel Apple Pie with a Twist
A delightful blend of comforting flavors and textures, this Caramel Apple Pie features a flaky crust filled with tender apples, sweet caramel, and aromatic spices, making it perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights.
Ingredients
For the Crust
- 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed for a rich, creamy crust
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour to help bind the butter and flour mixture
- 2 cups all-purpose flour the base of our flaky crust
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar for crust
- 1 teaspoon salt to enhance all flavors
- 3-4 tablespoons ice water to bring the dough together while keeping it cool
For the Filling
- 6-8 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced thinly for a fresh, juicy filling
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar to sweeten the apples
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed to add depth and moisture to the apples
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice to brighten the flavors of the apples
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for warmth and spice
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg for that perfect autumnal flavor
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour to thicken the filling
- 3/4 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling) the star of this recipe
- 1 egg beaten for egg wash
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar optional, for sprinkling on the crust
Instructions
Preparation of the Crust
- In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar.
- Gently cut in 1 cup of chilled, cubed butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add 3-4 tablespoons of ice water, mixing after each addition until the dough begins to come together.
- Divide the dough in half, shape into disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Prepare the Filling
- In a bowl, combine sliced apples with 3/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1 teaspoon nutmeg, and 2 tablespoons flour.
- Add 1 tablespoon lemon juice and mix thoroughly. Let sit for about 10 minutes.
- Fold in 3/4 cup of caramel sauce to coat the apple slices evenly.
Assembly
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Roll out one disk of dough on a floured surface and place it in a 9-inch pie dish, leaving a 1-inch overhang.
- Spoon the apple filling into the crust and scatter small pieces of remaining butter over the top.
- Roll out the second disk of dough and place it over the filling. Trim and seal edges.
- Make small slits in the top crust for steam escape, brush with the beaten egg wash, and sprinkle with sugar.
Baking
- Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes.
- Lower the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 35-40 minutes until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
- Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before serving.
Notes
Use a mixture of apples for depth of flavor; chill your butter and use ice water for a flakier crust. Cover edges with foil if they brown too quickly.