Caramel Apple Pie

Few desserts are as comforting and nostalgic as a homemade Caramel Apple Pie. It’s the perfect balance of tart, juicy apples, sweet caramel, and a flaky golden crust. If you’re a fan of a traditional apple double crust pie, this recipe adds a delightful caramel layer that elevates it into a decadent fall and holiday favorite.

The gooey caramel filling not only makes the apples richer but also adds that irresistible sweetness that pairs beautifully with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Whether you serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or enjoy it warm on its own, this pie guarantees a slice of cozy perfection.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic with a Twist: It takes the timeless apple double crust pie and makes it extra special with buttery caramel.
• Perfect for Fall: Apples and caramel are the ultimate autumn pairing.
• Family Favorite: Great for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any gathering.
• Beautiful Presentation: With its golden top crust and caramel-drizzled filling, it looks as amazing as it tastes.
• Versatile: Can be made with homemade or store-bought crust depending on your time.

Ingredients

• 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)
• 6–7 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cubed
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 egg (for egg wash)
• 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for topping)

Instructions

• Step 1: Prepare the Apples
  Peel, core, and slice the apples. Toss them in a large bowl with lemon juice to prevent browning.
• Step 2: Make the Filling
  Add sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the apples. Mix until coated. Stir in ½ cup caramel sauce.
• Step 3: Assemble the Pie
  Place one pie crust into a 9-inch pie dish.
  • Fill with the caramel apple mixture.
  • Dot the filling with cubed butter.
  • Place the second pie crust on top, sealing the edges and cutting slits for steam.
• Step 4: Egg Wash & Bake
  Brush the top crust with egg wash. Sprinkle coarse sugar if desired. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, then reduce to 350°F (175°C) and bake another 35–40 minutes until golden and bubbly.
• Step 5: Cool & Serve
  Let pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. Drizzle with more caramel before serving.

Tips for Success

• Choose the Right Apples: A mix of tart and sweet apples balances flavor.
• Prevent Soggy Bottom: Bake on a lower oven rack to crisp the bottom crust.
• Caramel Shortcut: Use store-bought caramel if you’re short on time.
• Make Ahead: Prepare filling up to a day in advance and refrigerate.
• Beautiful Finish: Lattice crust makes the caramel filling peek through.

Variations

• Salted Caramel Apple Pie: Add flaky sea salt for a sweet-salty balance.
• Dutch Crumb Topping: Replace the top crust with a buttery streusel topping.
• Mini Caramel Apple Pies: Use muffin tins for individual servings.
• Extra Nutty: Add chopped pecans or walnuts to the filling.

Serving & Storage

• Serving: Best enjoyed warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
• Storage: Keep leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked pie for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding 15 minutes to bake time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Nothing says cozy like a homemade Caramel Apple Pie. With the richness of caramel, the crisp bite of apples, and a flaky apple double crust pie, this dessert is a crowd-pleaser for every occasion. Warm, gooey, and bursting with flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

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