Caramel Apple Pie is the ultimate cozy dessert that instantly whisks you back to childhood memories of crisp autumn days and sweet, fragrant kitchens. Imagine tender, spiced apples nestled in a flaky crust, all swirling together with a luscious, buttery caramel that melts into every bite. This is the pie you proudly set on the dinner table for family gatherings or share with friends beside a toasty fire. Whether you’re a pie pro or a nervous baker, this recipe will guide you to a stunning treat that’s a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Caramel Apple Pie is built from everyday ingredients, but each one plays a starring role in the overall balance of flavor and texture. Let’s walk through what you’ll need—because it’s the simple things, lovingly combined, that make this pie unforgettable.
- Double pie crust: The flaky, buttery foundation (store-bought is fine, but homemade is pure magic) hugs the filling and adds irresistible texture.
- 6 cups peeled and thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp): Choose a mix for tartness and sweetness—this gives each forkful a bright, deeply fruity flavor.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Ensures the filling is perfectly sweet without overshadowing the apples and caramel.
- ¼ cup brown sugar: Adds warmth and depth thanks to its lovely molasses notes that pair beautifully with caramel.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the juices released by the apples so your pie slices stay neat and luscious.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Warms each bite with that classic fall spice everyone loves in apple pie.
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Just a pinch deepens the spicy undertone and rounds out the flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and boosts every other ingredient—don’t skip it!
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the apples and keeps everything from tasting too heavy.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: A subtle, sweet aromatic that elevates the overall flavor profile.
- ½ cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling): The star of the show—swirled into the filling and on top for gooey, golden deliciousness.
- 1 egg (for egg wash): Helps create that gorgeous, glossy golden crust.
- 1 tablespoon milk: Blends with the egg to make your crust extra shiny and inviting.
How to Make Caramel Apple Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake. Roll out the bottom portion of your double pie crust and gently fit it into a 9-inch pie dish, letting the edges hang over slightly. Don’t worry about making it perfect—homemade pies have charm in every fold and crimp.
Step 2: Mix the Apple Filling
In a large mixing bowl, toss together your peeled and thinly sliced apples with the lemon juice, both sugars, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract. Don’t skimp on mixing; each apple slice should be coated in sweet, spiced goodness, ready to burst with juice and flavor in the oven.
Step 3: Layer Apples and Caramel
Pour half of your apple mixture into the pie shell and sprinkle everything evenly. Drizzle half of your caramel sauce across the apples, letting it sink into the crevices. Top with the rest of the apples, then layer on the remaining caramel—these golden ribbons will create pockets of rich, gooey flavor in every slice.
Step 4: Top and Seal the Pie
Roll out the second half of your pie dough for the top crust. You can opt for a simple full crust with a few vents, or get playful and weave a rustic lattice. Place it over the apples, trim any overhang, and crimp the edges securely to seal in all those juicy flavors.
Step 5: Egg Wash and Bake
In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk for your egg wash. Lightly brush this mixture over the top crust—this is your ticket to a picture-perfect, golden exterior. Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips, then bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the crust is deep golden and the filling is visibly bubbling. If the edges brown faster than the top, just cover them gently with foil.
Step 6: Cool and Finish with More Caramel
Once it’s out of the oven, the hardest part is waiting! Let your Caramel Apple Pie cool for at least 2 hours so the filling sets and the flavors fully develop. Before serving, don’t forget a generous drizzle of extra caramel sauce—your guests (and your tastebuds) will thank you.
How to Serve Caramel Apple Pie
Garnishes
Every slice of Caramel Apple Pie deserves its moment in the spotlight. A final flourish of warm caramel sauce transforms each piece, while a fluffy dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream can send your dessert over the top. For extra flair, sprinkle toasted pecans or walnuts on top for nutty crunch.
Side Dishes
Pairing your pie with a refreshing side can turn a comforting dessert into a true experience. A simple fruit salad, cinnamon-spiced roasted pears, or even a chilled apple cider pairs wonderfully with the rich caramel flavor. If you’re feeling cheeky, serve it alongside a mug of hot coffee or chai for the ultimate autumn treat.
Creative Ways to Present
Let’s have fun with presentation! Bake your Caramel Apple Pie in individual ramekins for a personalized twist, or go rustic by serving slices on wooden cutting boards for that farmhouse vibe. For a festive occasion, try topping each slice with a sparkler or edible gold dust—let your creativity shine and make dessert even more memorable.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you somehow manage to have some leftover Caramel Apple Pie, you’re in luck—this pie tastes even better the next day. Store slices loosely covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or keep them in the fridge for up to 5 days. The caramel helps keep the filling soft, while the crust remains pleasantly crisp.
Freezing
Need to get ahead for a party or holiday? Caramel Apple Pie freezes beautifully. Simply wrap the cooled, baked pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and gently warm it in the oven before slicing.
Reheating
Revive your pie’s fresh-baked magic by reheating individual slices in the oven at 325°F for about 10–12 minutes, or zap them in the microwave for 20–30 seconds. For the ultimate comfort, top with a touch more warm caramel before digging in.
FAQs
Can I use a store-bought crust, or does it have to be homemade?
Go right ahead with store-bought if you’re short on time—no judgment here! A homemade crust gives that extra touch of love and flaky texture, but Caramel Apple Pie shines with either option.
What kinds of apples work best for Caramel Apple Pie?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are favorites due to their sturdy texture and tart-sweet balance, but you can mix varieties for depth. Pink Lady and Braeburn are also wonderful choices if you want to play with flavor.
How do I keep the bottom crust from getting soggy?
A good coating of flour in the filling absorbs extra juices, and baking the pie on a lower oven rack helps the bottom crust cook through. If you’re really cautious, brush the crust with a little egg white before filling.
Can I make this pie gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap in your favorite gluten-free pie crust and use a gluten-free flour blend in the apple mixture. The caramel sauce should be checked for any hidden gluten, but most are safe.
Is it okay to reduce the sugar?
Yes! Feel free to reduce the granulated and brown sugar to suit your sweetness preference. The apples and caramel still bring plenty of natural sweetness, so it’s very forgiving.
Final Thoughts
There’s something utterly magical about pulling a bubbling Caramel Apple Pie from the oven, sharing it with loved ones, and basking in the sweet scent that fills your kitchen. Give this recipe a try—you’ll create comfort, cheer, and memories that last well beyond the last crumb.
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Caramel Apple Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the delicious flavors of fall with this Caramel Apple Pie recipe. A classic dessert elevated with a gooey caramel twist, perfect for autumn gatherings or any sweet tooth cravings.
Ingredients
Pie Crust:
1 double pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
Apple Filling:
6 cups peeled and thinly sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best), ¾ cup granulated sugar, ¼ cup brown sugar, ¼ cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg, ¼ teaspoon salt, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, ½ cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)
Egg Wash:
1 egg, 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Prepare the crust: Roll out the bottom crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish.
- Make the filling: Toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, sugars, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vanilla extract. Layer the apples and caramel in the crust.
- Add the top crust: Cover the filling with the top crust, crimp the edges, and brush with egg wash.
- Bake: Bake for 45–50 minutes until golden and bubbly. Cool before serving.
Notes
- Use a mix of tart and sweet apples for depth of flavor.
- Store leftover pie at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Reheat slices for best texture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 64g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
