This Caramel Apple Pie is a warm and cozy treat that brings the sweet taste of fall right to your table. With juicy apples and a rich caramel sauce, it’s simply delicious!
One bite, and you’ll be hooked! I love to serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream on top—it feels like a hug in dessert form. Trust me, you’ll want to make this again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pie Crusts: You can use store-bought for ease or make your own for extra love. If you need a gluten-free option, try gluten-free pie crusts available at most supermarkets.
Apples: Granny Smith apples bring a nice tartness, while Honeycrisp are sweet and crisp. If you want a sweeter pie, mix both types or use Fuji or Gala apples.
Granulated and Brown Sugar: Both sugars add sweetness, but you can cut down on sugar by using honey or maple syrup for a different flavor profile.
Caramel Sauce: A store-bought sauce works fine, but homemade caramel is even better. You can also replace it with chocolate sauce if you prefer chocolate with apples.
How Do I Create a Lattice Crust Without the Stress?
Creating a lattice crust can be tricky, but it’s easier than it looks! Start with chilled dough for best results. Here are simple steps:
- Roll out the second crust and cut it into strips (about 1-inch wide).
- Lay half horizontally on the filled pie, then weave the remaining strips vertically, alternating under and over.
- Don’t worry about perfection; it adds character. Just ensure the edges are trimmed neatly for a good finish.
Crimp the edges to seal the pie. This not only looks pretty but also helps keep the filling from bubbling over!
Why is Cooling Important Before Slicing?
Allowing the pie to cool for at least 2 hours is crucial. This time allows the filling to set, so it holds its shape when you cut into it. If you slice it too soon, you’ll have a gooey mess. Patience pays off!
Enjoy your delightful caramel apple pie, a perfect treat for gatherings or a cozy night in! Don’t forget the ice cream for extra yum!
Caramel Apple Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pie:
- 2 pie crusts (homemade or store-bought)
- 6 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples (like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Coarse sugar, for sprinkling on top (optional)
- Vanilla ice cream (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 20 minutes of prep time, along with 1 hour of baking and at least 2 hours of cooling time. So, plan for around 3 hours total before you slice into this delicious pie!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Crust:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While that’s warming up, roll out one pie crust and place it into a 9-inch pie dish. Don’t forget to trim off any excess dough around the edges!
2. Mixing the Filling:
In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and lemon juice. Make sure to toss everything well so that the apples are evenly coated. Then, pour half of the caramel sauce into this mixture and gently stir to mix it all together.
3. Filling the Pie:
Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly. Dot the filling with tiny pieces of butter to add a little richness in flavor.
4. Creating the Lattice Top:
Take the second pie crust and roll it out again. Cut it into strips of about 1 inch wide to create a lattice pattern. Start laying half of the strips across the top of the pie horizontally. Then, weave the remaining strips vertically over and under the horizontal ones. It may take a little practice, but don’t worry—imperfect is perfectly fine!
5. Final Touches:
Once your lattice is done, trim any extra edges and crimp them to seal the pie. Brush the top with the beaten egg and sprinkle some coarse sugar for extra crunch, if you like!
6. Baking Time:
Place your pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake it in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. After that, reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 35-45 minutes. You want it to be golden brown and bubbling in the filling.
7. Cooling and Serving:
When the pie is done, take it out of the oven and let it cool for at least 2 hours. This step is super important to let the filling set. Before serving, drizzle some more warm caramel sauce on top of the pie. And for the cherry on top, serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!
Enjoy this warm, caramel-drizzled apple pie with a perfect flaky lattice crust—pure fall comfort in every bite!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are excellent choices, you can also try Fuji or Gala apples for a sweeter flavor, or a mix of different varieties for a more complex taste.
How Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the pie and assemble it a day in advance. Just keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. If you want to bake it in advance, let it cool completely and store it covered at room temperature for up to two days.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Caramel Sauce?
No worries! You can make a quick homemade caramel by melting sugar in a saucepan until it’s golden and carefully adding cream and butter. Alternatively, you can use chocolate sauce or even a fruit preserves for a different twist!
Can I Store Leftover Pie?
Yes! Store any leftover pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave or enjoy it cold for a tasty treat!
