Salted Caramel Apple Pie Recipe

Are you craving a dessert that’s both sweet and savory with a touch of seasonal flair? Look no further! This Salted Caramel Apple Pie recipe is a perfect combination of buttery crust, juicy apples, and a rich salted caramel sauce that will make your taste buds dance. If you love traditional apple pie but are looking for a flavor upgrade, this is the recipe for you. Read on for the full guide on how to make this mouth-watering pie from scratch, and don't forget to share it with friends and family!

What is a Salted Caramel Apple Pie?

Salted caramel apple pie is a classic apple pie with an added layer of luxurious salted caramel sauce. It combines the comforting flavors of tart, crisp apples with a rich and buttery caramel sauce that's elevated with a pinch of salt. The salt cuts through the sweetness of the caramel, enhancing the flavor of the apples and providing a perfect balance of flavors. It’s a dessert that feels both traditional and modern, making it a favorite for holiday dinners, potlucks, and special occasions.

Ingredients List for Salted Caramel Apple Pie

Before you start baking, gather all the necessary ingredients. Having everything ready will make the process much smoother. Here’s what you’ll need for the pie crust, filling, and the salted caramel sauce.

For the Pie Crust:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 6-8 tablespoons ice water

For the Apple Filling:

• 6 large apples (a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works best)
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ¼ cup light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (for thickening)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Salted Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon sea salt (adjust to taste)

Substitutions and Variations

Crust Substitutions:

• Store-bought pie crust: If you’re short on time, feel free to use a pre-made pie crust from the store. Just make sure to get one with a buttery flavor for the best results.
• Gluten-free crust: Swap out the regular flour for a gluten-free blend to make this pie suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

Apple Substitutions:

• Different apple varieties: While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are ideal due to their balance of tartness and sweetness, you can substitute them with other varieties such as Fuji, Braeburn, or Jonagold. Just keep in mind that different apples may affect the overall flavor and texture.

Sauce Variations:

• Cinnamon caramel: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the caramel sauce for a warm, spiced flavor.
• Bourbon caramel: Stir in a tablespoon of bourbon at the end of cooking the caramel for a rich, boozy kick.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Ready to bake the perfect salted caramel apple pie? Follow these detailed steps for a pie that’s sure to impress.

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

• In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in the cold, cubed butter using a pastry cutter or your hands until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Gradually add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together.
• Divide the dough into two equal parts, shape them into discs, and wrap them in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

• Peel, core, and slice the apples into ¼-inch thick slices.
• Toss the apple slices with lemon juice, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and vanilla extract in a large mixing bowl. Let the apples sit for 10-15 minutes to release their juices.

Step 3: Make the Salted Caramel Sauce

• In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly with a heatproof spatula. Once it turns amber and smooth, add the butter, stirring until fully melted.
• Slowly drizzle in the heavy cream, being careful as it will bubble up. Whisk until smooth.
• Stir in the sea salt and remove from heat. Let the sauce cool slightly before using.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one of the dough discs on a lightly floured surface and place it in a 9-inch pie dish.
• Add half of the apple mixture to the crust, drizzle some of the salted caramel sauce over the apples, then add the remaining apples. Drizzle more caramel sauce on top.
• Roll out the second dough disc and place it over the pie filling. Trim any excess dough, crimp the edges to seal, and cut slits on top to allow steam to escape.

Step 5: Bake the Pie

• Brush the top of the pie with an egg wash (a beaten egg with 1 tablespoon of water) to give it a golden finish.
• Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
• Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing to ensure the filling sets properly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not using cold butter for the crust: Cold butter is crucial for a flaky pie crust. If the butter melts before baking, the crust will be tough instead of tender.
• Skipping the apple prep time: Letting the apples sit with sugar and spices allows them to release their juices, which helps prevent a soggy crust.
• Burning the caramel: Keep an eye on the sugar when making the caramel. It can go from amber to burnt very quickly.

Serving and Presentation Tips

A Salted Caramel Apple Pie is a showstopper on its own, but the way you serve and present it can take it to the next level. Here are some ideas to make your dessert unforgettable.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie

• Warm: Salted caramel apple pie is best served warm. Reheat individual slices in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes, or microwave for 30 seconds.
• With ice cream: A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream pairs beautifully with the warm pie and adds a creamy contrast to the tart apples and rich caramel.
• Drizzle extra caramel: Don’t forget to drizzle extra salted caramel sauce over each slice right before serving for added indulgence.

Presentation Ideas for Salted Caramel Apple Pie

• Lattice crust: If you want to add a decorative touch to your pie, try a lattice crust instead of a solid top crust. It looks stunning and allows the apples to peek through.
• Caramel drizzle design: Use a piping bag or a spoon to artistically drizzle caramel over the top of the baked pie for an elegant finish.
• Sprinkle sea salt: For an extra touch of gourmet flair, sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt over the top of the pie right before serving.

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Recipe Tips

• Use a variety of apples: Using both tart and sweet apples ensures a complex flavor. Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are a perfect combination.
• Make the caramel in advance: The salted caramel sauce can be made up to a week ahead of time and stored in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before drizzling on the pie.
• Chill the dough: For the flakiest crust, make sure your dough is cold before rolling it out and assembling the pie.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can make the entire pie a day in advance and store it at room temperature. Alternatively, you can make the crust and the caramel sauce ahead of time and store them separately, then assemble and bake the pie when you’re ready.

Can I freeze Salted Caramel Apple Pie?

Yes, you can freeze the pie either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble the pie and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. When ready to bake, bake from frozen and add an additional 15-20 minutes to the baking time. If freezing after baking, allow the pie to cool completely, then wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

What are the best apples for apple pie?

Granny Smith apples are known for their tartness and firmness, which make them a popular choice for apple pie. Honeycrisp apples add sweetness and also hold their shape well. Using a combination of both will give your pie a great balance of flavor and texture.

How do I prevent a soggy bottom crust?

Make sure to preheat your oven properly and consider baking the pie on the lower oven rack to ensure the bottom crust cooks evenly. Also, letting the apple filling sit before assembling the pie helps reduce excess moisture.

Conclusion

There you have it—a detailed guide to making the perfect Salted Caramel Apple Pie! This pie is a delicious twist on a classic dessert that brings together tart apples, buttery crust, and a heavenly salted caramel sauce. Whether you're baking it for a special occasion or just because you're craving something sweet, this recipe is sure to impress. Don't forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and enjoy every bite!

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