Name: Caramel Dutch Apple Pie with Brown Butter
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: Dutch
Ingredients: 1 9-inch unbaked pie crust; 6 cups peeled and sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp); ¾ cup granulated sugar; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; ½ cup unsalted butter (for brown butter); ¾ cup packed light brown sugar; 1 cup all-purpose flour (for streusel); ¼ cup old-fashioned rolled oats; ½ cup caramel sauce (plus more for drizzling)

Caramel Dutch Apple Pie with Brown Butter stands at the crossroads of classic comfort and gourmet indulgence, making it a cherished favorite among dessert lovers.

This recipe beautifully marries the time-honored flavors of a traditional Dutch apple pie with the rich, nutty undertones of brown butter and the sweet complexity of homemade caramel. Originating in the Netherlands, Dutch apple pies are known for their crumbly streusel toppings lush with butter and brown sugar.

American interpretations often add creative twists, and today's focus on brown butter and caramel elevates the dessert to a whole new level. As autumn approaches and apples are at their peak, nothing compares to the aroma of a fresh-baked Caramel Dutch Apple Pie with Brown Butter wafting from your oven.

Beyond just taste, this special recipe offers a heartwarming experience-recalling memories of family gatherings and cozy celebrations. The use of brown butter deepens the flavor profile, enhancing the natural sweetness of crisp apples while the caramel ribbons add a luscious, sticky contrast.

Perfect for special occasions or simply indulging on a weekend, this pie is a festive centerpiece certain to impress.

Whether you are an experienced baker or just starting out, you'll find that making a Caramel Dutch Apple Pie with Brown Butter is both creatively satisfying and more than worth the effort.

Ingredients

For the Crust:
1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon granulated sugar

½ cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
3-4 tablespoons ice water
For the Brown Butter Streusel Topping:
½ cup unsalted butter

¾ cup all-purpose flour
½ cup brown sugar, packed
¼ cup granulated sugar
¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon

¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon salt
For the Apple Filling:
6-7 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced

2 tablespoons lemon juice
½ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
¼ cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground allspice
¼ teaspoon salt
For the Caramel Sauce:

½ cup granulated sugar
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
¼ cup heavy cream
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

Instructions

Prepare the pie crust: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and sugar. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add ice water one tablespoon at a time, mixing just until the dough begins to come together. Shape into a disk, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
Brown the butter for the streusel: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue cooking, swirling occasionally, until the butter foams, then turns golden and smells nutty. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Prepare the streusel topping: In a mixing bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Pour in the slightly cooled brown butter and mix with a fork until the mixture forms coarse crumbs. Chill while preparing the filling.
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled pie dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Gently press the dough into the dish and crimp the edges. Place in the refrigerator while preparing the filling.
Mix the apple filling: In a large bowl, toss apple slices with lemon juice, granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, allspice, and salt until well coated.
Prepare the caramel sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat the sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly, until melted and deep amber in color. Add the butter and stir until melted and combined. Slowly add the heavy cream (the mixture will bubble), then stir in vanilla and salt until smooth. Remove from heat and cool slightly.
Assemble the pie: Pour half the apple filling into the prepared crust. Drizzle half the caramel sauce over the apples. Add the remaining apple filling and drizzle with the rest of the caramel. Top with the brown butter streusel, pressing lightly to adhere.

Bake: Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F for 25 minutes. Then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C), cover the pie with foil to prevent over-browning, and bake for an additional 35-40 minutes, until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
Cool and serve: Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours to set the filling. Slice and serve with extra caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Nutritional Information

A generous slice of Caramel Dutch Apple Pie with Brown Butter offers both sumptuous flavor and meaningful nourishment. Each serving typically provides around 400-450 calories, primarily from the buttery crust, decadent streusel, and rich caramel sauce.

The inclusion of apples supplies a healthy dose of dietary fiber and vitamin C, contributing to digestive health and immune support. Brown butter and caramel add saturated fat, so moderation is key for those watching their fat intake.

The complex carbohydrates found in the crust and the apples offer sustained energy, while sugar content is moderate by dessert standards but should be considered if you are managing blood sugar levels.

This pie does not contain significant protein, but pairing it with a scoop of Greek yogurt or nuts on the side can boost protein content. Additionally, the pie contains calcium from butter and cream, and trace minerals from the apples and spices.

For those with specific dietary needs, adjustments like whole wheat flour, less sugar, or dairy alternatives can help tailor the dish for a healthier profile.

Keep in mind that while Caramel Dutch Apple Pie with Brown Butter is a treat, enjoying it as part of a balanced diet can bring joy and satisfaction without compromising on nutrition.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

Caramel Dutch Apple Pie with Brown Butter pairs beautifully with beverages that both complement and balance its flavors. Serve with a glass of late-harvest Riesling or Moscato for a harmonious union of fruit notes and sweetness. A lightly oaked Chardonnay brings out the buttery undertones of the brown butter streusel.

For a non-alcoholic option, a warm mug of spiced chai tea or apple cider enhances the pie's spiced elements. Coffee, especially with a splash of cream, remains a traditional and satisfying choice, while hot chocolate offers a decadent, cozy experience suited for colder evenings.

For a unique twist, try a cinnamon-infused craft beer or a glass of Calvados, an apple brandy, to truly amplify the apple profile of the pie.

Cooking Tips and Variations

For the best Caramel Dutch Apple Pie with Brown Butter, select a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This balance ensures your filling is flavorful without being overly sweet or mushy after baking.

When browning butter for the streusel, watch it closely; the milk solids will toast quickly and can burn if left unattended. Always let the brown butter cool slightly so it doesn't melt the other streusel ingredients too much.

Adding a tablespoon of oats or chopped pecans to the streusel can give extra texture and flavor diversity. Pre-cooking apple slices for 5-10 minutes over medium heat can further soften firmer apple varieties and ensure even baking.

If you wish to make the pie ahead of time, prepare the crust, streusel, and caramel in advance, storing them separately. Assemble and bake fresh for optimal texture. For a saltier twist, sprinkle a few flakes of sea salt over the caramel layer before adding the streusel.

Those following gluten-free diets can substitute the crust and streusel flours with their preferred gluten-free blends. Experiment by adding a pinch of cardamom or ginger to the filling for a spiced warmth unique to your kitchen. Adjust sweetness by choosing apple varieties and sugar quantities according to your taste.

Enjoy with ice cream, whipped cream, or simply warm from the oven.

Serving Suggestions

To serve Caramel Dutch Apple Pie with Brown Butter at its best, allow the freshly baked pie to cool slightly so the filling sets properly-this makes slicing easier and ensures each piece stays beautifully intact.

Present slices warm, either on their own or accompanied by a scoop of classic vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast to the warm, spiced apples and buttery crumble. Whipped cream, lightly sweetened with a splash of vanilla, is also an excellent pairing, melding effortlessly with the caramel drizzle.

To evoke a rustic, autumnal vibe, serve the pie straight from a cast-iron skillet or ceramic pie dish, garnished with extra caramel sauce, a sprinkle of toasted nuts, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

For gatherings and parties, cut smaller slices for a bite-sized dessert buffet, or plate with fresh apple slices and a cinnamon stick for a polished presentation. If serving to a crowd, pair the dessert with a variety of beverage options, including coffee, tea, and sparkling water with lemon.

For a delightful brunch, try topping leftovers with Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey for a unique and satisfying morning treat. Remember to store leftover pie covered in the fridge, and gently reheat slices in the oven before serving to revive the texture and aroma.

No matter how you choose to share this pie, the rich brown butter, gooey caramel, and spiced apples will leave a lasting impression.

Health Benefits

While Caramel Dutch Apple Pie with Brown Butter is indulgent, it does offer some health benefits, particularly when enjoyed in moderation. Apples are the star, famous for their high fiber content, antioxidants, and vitamin C, which collectively support digestive and immune health.

Cinnamon and nutmeg, essential to this recipe, possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Moderating the amount of sugar and butter can make the pie more heart-healthy, and utilizing a whole wheat crust or gluten-free flour option can cater to specific dietary needs.

Brown butter, though rich, provides depth of flavor even in smaller amounts, allowing you to use less overall fat if desired. Homemade caramel allows control over sugar content and the opportunity to avoid additives like high-fructose corn syrup found in many commercial products.

Choosing organic, local apples can maximize the nutritional value of your dessert as well. While this pie is not a low-calorie food and should be enjoyed as a treat, incorporating wholesome ingredients and practicing mindful portioning enhances its place in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this Caramel Dutch Apple Pie with Brown Butter ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the crust, streusel, and caramel a day in advance. Store them separately and assemble the pie just before baking for the freshest results.

What types of apples are best for this pie?

A mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn works well, providing both structure and balanced flavor.

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

While homemade caramel gives the best flavor, you can substitute a high-quality store-bought caramel sauce for convenience.

Is it possible to make this pie gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour in the crust, streusel, and filling with your favorite gluten-free flour blend.

How should I store leftovers?

Wrap leftover pie tightly and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat slices in a warm oven for the best texture.

Caramel Dutch Apple Pie with Brown Butter is more than just a dessert-it is an experience that brings together the comforting flavors of spiced apples, the luxurious depth of brown butter, and the irresistible allure of caramel. Ideal for holiday tables, family gatherings, or simply as a cozy treat on a chilly evening, this pie will quickly become a treasured recipe in your kitchen. By following this guide and embracing the tips and variations offered, you can customize your pie to your own taste and occasion. Whether you share it with loved ones or savor it solo, each bite celebrates the beauty of seasonal baking, rich tradition, and the magic that happens when simple ingredients are transformed into something extraordinary. Bake your own Caramel Dutch Apple Pie with Brown Butter and enjoy a dessert that delights the senses and warms the heart.