Introduction
There’s nothing quite like a classic apple pie, especially when it’s made with tart Granny Smith apples and drizzled with rich caramel sauce. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart, enveloped in a flaky lattice crust. It’s an ideal dessert for gatherings, holidays, or a cozy evening at home. Let’s explore the ingredients needed to create this delightful dish.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
7 cups (790 grams) Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced (about 7 apples)
½ cup (107 grams) brown sugar
½ cup (100 grams) granulated sugar
¼ cup (30 grams) all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon (14 grams) lemon juice (from ½ lemon)
2 teaspoons (6 grams) ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
2 9-inch refrigerated pie crusts (400 grams; 1 package)
1 cup (320 grams) caramel sauce, divided
½ teaspoon flaky sea salt
1 large egg (50 grams), whisked with 1 teaspoon of water
1 tablespoon (11 grams) turbinado sugar
Prep Time
Preparation for this scrumptious pie takes approximately 30 minutes. This allows you to slice the apples, mix the filling, and prepare the lattice crust without any rush.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is about 50 to 60 minutes, depending on your oven. The total time for making this apple pie, including prep and cook time, is approximately 1 hour and 20 to 30 minutes. This recipe yields one 9-inch pie, perfect for serving 8 generous slices.
Enjoy baking this delightful caramel apple pie, and savor each bite of its sweet and tantalizing flavors!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Step 2: Prepare Apple Mixture
In a large bowl, toss the sliced Granny Smith apples with brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and kosher salt until well combined.
Step 3: Line Pie Dish
Line a 9-inch pie dish with one of the refrigerated pie crusts, trimming any excess dough from the edges.
Step 4: Fill Pie Crust
Transfer the apple mixture into the pie crust, spreading it evenly.
Step 5: Add Caramel Sauce
Pour half of the caramel sauce over the apples and sprinkle with flaky sea salt.
Step 6: Create Lattice Crust
Place the second pie crust on a floured surface. Use a pizza cutter or knife to cut the dough into long strips about 1 inch wide. Evenly drape 5-6 strips over the pie in a vertical direction, leaving about 1 inch between each strip. Peel back every other strip halfway, place a strip horizontally in the middle, then fold the vertical strips back over. Repeat the process, alternating strips, to create a lattice pattern. Trim any excess dough and pinch the ends of the strips into the edges of the bottom crust. Crimp the edges as desired.
Step 7: Brush and Sprinkle
Brush the lattice crust with the egg wash and sprinkle with turbinado sugar.
Step 8: Prepare for Baking
Place the pie on a baking sheet and bake for 30 minutes.
Step 9: Check and Continue Baking
Check the pie; if the outer crust is browning too quickly, cover it with foil. Continue baking for another 20-30 minutes until the filling is bubbly.
Step 10: Cool Before Serving
Allow the pie to cool before serving. Drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over each slice before serving.
Notes
Apple Selection
Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness, which balances the sweetness of the sugars and caramel.
Flaky Crust
For a tender and flaky crust, handle the dough gently and do not overwork it.
Caramel Sauce
Choose a good quality caramel sauce for the best flavor, or make your own for a homemade touch.
Serving Suggestion
This pie pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
Cook techniques
Preparing Apples
Peel and slice Granny Smith apples evenly to ensure uniform cooking and texture in your pie.
Mixing Ingredients
Toss the sliced apples with brown sugar, granulated sugar, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and kosher salt until well combined. This step ensures the flavors meld together and the apples are coated evenly.
Pie Crust Preparation
When lining the pie dish with the crust, trim any excess dough to prevent overbaking and ensure a neat edge.
Creating a Lattice Crust
When cutting the second pie crust into strips for a lattice, keep a consistent width for evenness. Alternate the vertical and horizontal strips to create an attractive pattern.
Egg Wash Application
Brush the lattice crust with a mixture of egg and water for a golden, glossy finish after baking.
Baking the Pie
Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drippings. Monitor closely for browning and cover edges with foil as needed to prevent burning.
Cooling the Pie
Allow the pie to cool before serving to let the filling set, making it easier to slice and serve.
FAQ
Can I use other types of apples for this pie?
Yes, while Granny Smith apples provide tartness, you can mix in other varieties like Honeycrisp or Fuji for added sweetness.
How do I store leftover pie?
Store leftover pie covered in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or you can freeze it for longer storage.
Can I make the pie crust from scratch?
Absolutely! You can substitute homemade pie crust for the refrigerated variety.
What can I do if the apple filling is runny?
To thicken a runny filling, you can add more flour or cornstarch to the apple mixture before baking.
How can I make this pie less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of both sugars or use unsweetened apple sauce as a natural sweetener alternative.
Is there a non-dairy option for caramel sauce?
Yes, you can find non-dairy caramel sauces made from coconut or almond milk in stores, or make your own with coconut cream.
Conclusion
This caramel apple pie, adorned with a luscious lattice crust, is a delightful dessert that perfectly balances the tartness of Granny Smith apples with the sweetness of the caramel and sugars. With a warm blend of spices, this pie is sure to evoke nostalgic flavors that celebrate the essence of autumn. Serve it warm, drizzled with extra caramel for an unforgettable treat that pairs beautifully with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Apple Crisp with Oat Topping
Replace the pie crust with a crumbly oat topping made from oats, brown sugar, flour, butter, and spices for a warm, comforting dessert.
Caramel Apple Cheesecake
Combine a creamy cheesecake layer with the apple filling and caramel sauce, all sitting atop a graham cracker crust for a decadent twist.
Spiced Apple Muffins
Use the same apple and spice mixture to create moist, flavorful muffins perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Apple Galette
Create a rustic apple galette by folding the edges of a pie crust over a mound of spiced apples, then baking until golden.
Apple and Cinnamon Rolls
Incorporate apples and cinnamon into homemade rolls, spiraled with caramel sauce for a sweet breakfast treat.
Apple Pie Smoothie
Blend apples, yogurt, a hint of cinnamon, and caramel sauce to create a creamy and nutritious smoothie inspired by the flavors of apple pie.
