Craving something sweet, crunchy, and utterly delicious? This crunchy caramel apple pie is your answer. Combining the classic flavors of apple pie with a crunchy caramel topping, this recipe is sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of tart apples and sweet caramel creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- A crunchy topping adds an irresistible texture contrast to the soft apple filling.
- Using pre-made pie crust saves time without sacrificing taste.
- The caramel sauce is homemade, allowing for customization in sweetness and thickness.
- This pie is as beautiful as it is delicious, making it a showstopper dessert.
Ingredients
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 6 cups thinly sliced apples (about 6 medium apples)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup crushed graham crackers
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Equipment Needed
- 9-inch pie plate
- Mixing bowls
- Saucepan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Oven
Instructions
Prepare the Apple Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. In a large bowl, mix the sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg until the apples are evenly coated. Pour the apple mixture into the pie crust, spreading it out evenly. Tip: For extra flavor, let the apple mixture sit for 10 minutes before adding it to the crust.
Make the Caramel Sauce
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar and heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sugar is dissolved. Bring the mixture to a boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Carefully pour the caramel sauce over the apple filling. Tip: Be sure to pour slowly to ensure even distribution.
Add the Crunchy Topping
Sprinkle the crushed graham crackers and chopped pecans evenly over the caramel layer. This will create the crunchy texture that makes this pie unique. Press down lightly to ensure the topping sticks to the caramel.
Bake the Pie
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the edges of the crust begin to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil. Tip: Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the filling to set.
Serve and Enjoy
Once cooled, slice the pie and serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat. The combination of crunchy, sweet, and tart flavors is sure to delight your taste buds.
Tips and Tricks
For the best results, use a mix of apple varieties such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp for a balance of tart and sweet flavors. If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making your own. To prevent the pie crust from becoming soggy, you can brush it with a beaten egg white before adding the filling. For a nut-free version, simply omit the pecans or replace them with toasted coconut. If you prefer a less sweet pie, reduce the amount of sugar in the apple filling by a quarter cup.
Recipe Variations
- Try using pears instead of apples for a different flavor profile.
- Add a layer of cream cheese mixture under the apple filling for a creamy twist.
- Substitute the graham crackers with crushed vanilla wafers or shortbread cookies for a different crunch.
- Incorporate spices like cardamom or allspice for a more complex flavor.
- For a boozy version, add a tablespoon of bourbon or rum to the caramel sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the pie up to a day in advance and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold. The baked pie can also be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How do I prevent the topping from burning?
Keep an eye on the pie during the last 10 minutes of baking. If the topping starts to brown too quickly, cover the pie loosely with aluminum foil. This will allow the filling to continue cooking without over-browning the topping.
Can I freeze this pie?
Yes, this pie freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes before serving.
Summary
This crunchy caramel apple pie is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, featuring a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors with an irresistible crunchy topping. It’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.