Name: Salted Caramel Apple Pie
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ cup ice water; 6 cups sliced Granny Smith apples (about 5-6 apples); ¾ cup granulated sugar; 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon; ½ cup salted caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; 1 large egg (for egg wash); 1 tablespoon coarse sea salt, for garnish

Salted Caramel Apple Pie is a show-stopping dessert that embodies everything we love about comfort baking. Combining the traditional warmth of classic apple pie with the luxurious depth of homemade salted caramel, this pie takes a beloved American favorite to a new level.

The contrast of juicy, tart apples and golden, buttery crust pairs perfectly with a rich, silky caramel sauce, sprinkled just enough with sea salt to bring out the complex flavors.

This recipe is a variation on the timeless apple pie, a dessert that has been enjoyed in Europe since the Middle Ages and transformed into an iconic symbol of American baking.

The addition of salted caramel, a modern twist that gained major popularity in the early 21st century, has quickly become inseparable from autumn flavors and cozy family gatherings.

If you are looking for a Salted Caramel Apple Pie recipe that is both simple to follow and guaranteed to impress, this comprehensive guide will help you perfect your pie, from luscious caramel filling to flaky golden crust.

Whether it's for Thanksgiving, a holiday treat, or a weekend indulgence, this Salted Caramel Apple Pie earns rave reviews every time.

Ingredients

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (for pie crust)
1 teaspoon salt (for pie crust)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar (for pie crust)
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, chilled and cubed (for pie crust)

6 to 8 tablespoons ice water (for pie crust)
5 to 6 large apples (about 2 ½ lbs) - a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp
2 teaspoons lemon juice
½ cup granulated sugar (for filling)

¼ cup light brown sugar, packed
¼ cup all-purpose flour (for filling)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

¼ teaspoon ground allspice
¼ teaspoon salt (for filling)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

1 large egg (for egg wash)
1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)
For Salted Caramel Sauce:
1 cup granulated sugar

6 tablespoons unsalted butter, at room temperature
½ cup heavy cream, at room temperature
1 teaspoon fleur de sel or flaky sea salt

Instructions

Start by making the pie crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some small pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.
Drizzle in the ice water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing just until the dough comes together. You may not need all the water. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
Divide the dough in half, form each half into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least one hour while you prepare the filling and caramel.
For the caramel sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar, stirring constantly with a heat-safe spatula. Once the sugar melts and turns golden, add the butter and continue to stir until fully incorporated.

Slowly pour in the cream (the mixture will bubble vigorously). Stir continuously until smooth. Remove from heat, stir in the sea salt, and let cool to room temperature.
For the apple filling: Peel, core, and slice the apples about ¼ inch thick. Toss the apples with lemon juice in a large bowl.
Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, salt, and vanilla extract to the apples. Mix thoroughly until the apples are evenly coated.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out one disk of pie dough on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie plate. Transfer the dough carefully to the pie plate.

Arrange half the apple filling in the crust, then drizzle about half the cooled salted caramel sauce evenly over the apples. Top with the remaining apples and caramel.
Dot the filling with pieces of butter. Roll out the second dough disk and lay it over the apples. Trim, fold, and crimp the pie edges as desired.
Whisk together the egg and milk to make an egg wash. Brush the top crust with the egg wash and, if desired, sprinkle with a bit of sugar. Cut vents or use a lattice pattern to allow steam to escape.
Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Then, reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C), cover the pie loosely with foil, and bake for another 35-40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours to let the filling set. Drizzle with additional salted caramel sauce before serving if desired.

Nutritional Information

A slice of Salted Caramel Apple Pie presents a moderate caloric load, generally ranging from 350 to 450 calories per serving (⅛th of the pie), depending on the thickness of your crust and the amount of caramel used.

Each slice contains approximately 15 to 22 grams of fat, the majority coming from the butter in the crust and the caramel sauce. Saturated fats are also present due to the use of dairy ingredients, but these can be moderated by using lighter alternatives.

Carbohydrates make up a significant portion, averaging between 60 and 70 grams per slice, derived mostly from the apples, sugars, and flour. Dietary fiber is provided by the apples - one slice delivers up to 3 grams, contributing to your daily fiber intake.

The sugar content is notable, as both the caramel and the apple filling are sweetened, contributing around 30 to 40 grams of sugar per slice.

While Salted Caramel Apple Pie is a decadent treat, it does contain small amounts of protein (about 3 grams per serving) and some essential minerals, such as potassium and vitamin C from the apples.

While this dessert is certainly best enjoyed in moderation, balancing it with a healthy meal and physical activity can help fit it into a nutritious lifestyle.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

Salted Caramel Apple Pie pairs beautifully with beverages that complement its sweet, buttery, and slightly tart flavors. A glass of late-harvest Riesling or an off-dry Moscato brings out the richness of the caramel while balancing the tartness of the apples.

For those who prefer something non-alcoholic, hot apple cider with a cinnamon stick, or an herbal tea infused with vanilla or chai spices, works wonders.

For a cozy autumnal experience, enjoy your slice with a cup of robust coffee or a creamy latte, which helps cut through the sweetness and enhance the spiced undertones of the pie.

Cooking Tips and Variations

For the flakiest pie crust, always use very cold butter and work quickly when handling the dough. Chilling the dough for at least one hour, or even overnight, ensures the best texture and flavor.

Should you find the caramel sauce intimidating, remember to be patient and stir constantly to avoid burning. If you struggle with making caramel, store-bought salted caramel can be used in a pinch, though homemade offers a richer, fresher flavor.

For those who prefer reduced sweetness, use tart Granny Smith apples or adjust the sugar levels to taste. Enhance the flavor by adding a splash of spiced rum or bourbon to the apple filling.

If you want a unique presentation, create a lattice top or add decorative cut-outs to the crust. The Salted Caramel Apple Pie also adapts well to dietary needs; substitute gluten-free flour for an allergen-friendly crust or make it vegan using plant-based butter and cream.

Leftovers can be stored covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for up to five days. Warm slices slightly before serving to refresh the caramel and crust.

Serving Suggestions

To serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie at its best, let the pie cool for at least two hours after baking to allow the filling to set properly and avoid a runny slice.

When ready to serve, drizzle each slice with extra warm salted caramel sauce for premium indulgence and visual appeal. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream on the side transforms each portion into a restaurant-quality dessert.

Add a sprinkle of flaky sea salt as a finishing touch to highlight the caramel notes. This pie is equally at home as the centerpiece of a festive holiday spread or as a comforting end to a family dinner.

For gatherings, consider cutting the pie into smaller slices and serving alongside other seasonal treats, such as spiced nut mixes or mulled fruit. If serving guests, warm the pie slightly before presenting for an aroma that will fill your kitchen with nostalgia and warmth.

For a plated dessert, serve each slice with a caramel swirl and a few crisp apple slices for garnish.

Health Benefits

Salted Caramel Apple Pie offers several benefits from its key ingredient: apples are rich in dietary fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, all of which support heart health and immunity. Apples also contain polyphenols, which are plant compounds known for their antioxidant properties and potential to reduce inflammation.

Cinnamon and nutmeg, common spices in this pie, bring their own health perks, including blood sugar regulation and anti-inflammatory effects.

While the pie is naturally high in sugars and saturated fats due to the caramel and buttery crust, these can be moderated by adjusting portion sizes, using part-skim dairy, or incorporating whole-wheat flour for a nutritional boost.

Indulging in homemade desserts like Salted Caramel Apple Pie can also have psychological benefits, creating special moments and shared memories, which are an important part of overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Salted Caramel Apple Pie ahead of time?

Yes! Salted Caramel Apple Pie can be baked up to one day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature, or refrigerate up to five days. Reheat slices gently before serving for the best taste and texture.

Do I have to make caramel sauce from scratch?

While homemade salted caramel sauce delivers superior flavor and texture, you can use high-quality store-bought caramel if you are short on time. Warm it slightly, and add your own pinch of sea salt for the characteristic taste.

What are the best apples for Salted Caramel Apple Pie?

A combination of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, creates the perfect balance of flavor and texture in this pie. Using a mix prevents the filling from becoming too mushy or overly sweet.

Can I freeze Salted Caramel Apple Pie?

Yes, you can freeze the fully baked pie. Let it cool completely, wrap tightly in plastic, then foil, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven before serving.

How do I prevent my pie crust from getting soggy?

To avoid a soggy bottom, bake your pie on the lower rack, consider blind-baking the bottom crust for 10 minutes before adding the filling, and allow steam to escape with a vented or lattice crust.

Salted Caramel Apple Pie delivers a delicious twist on a timeless classic, combining crisp apples, deep caramel, and a hint of sea salt for the ultimate dessert experience. Whether shared at a festive gathering or savored after a cozy family meal, this pie brings warmth, comfort, and a touch of elegance to any table. By following this recipe and incorporating your own flair, you can master the art of Salted Caramel Apple Pie and delight your guests time and again. Don't forget to garnish with extra caramel and serve with fresh whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a truly unforgettable treat.