There’s something magical about baking that brings back sweet memories. I vividly recall the days spent in my grandmother’s cozy kitchen, where the aromas of cinnamon and caramel filled the air. It’s those moments that inspire me to create my own version of Caramel Apple Delight Pie, a delightful dessert that combines the pleasing crunch of fresh apples with the rich sweetness of caramel.
What makes this pie truly special is how forgiving and simple it is to prepare. With a pre-made crust and just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dessert that feels both indulgent and homemade. Plus, the combination of tangy apples and sweet caramel is pure bliss.
Why you’ll love Caramel Apple Delight Pie
- Speedy preparation: This pie comes together quickly, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or family dinners.
- Deliciously comforting: With each bite, you experience a warm blend of flavors that evoke the heart of the fall season.
- Make-ahead friendly: You can assemble it ahead of time, making dessert stress-free when hosting.
- Versatile: Enjoy it warm, at room temperature, or even chilled—it’s delightful in any form.
- Budget-friendly: Using simple ingredients means you can savor a delicious dessert without breaking the bank.
Ingredients
- 4 cups of sliced apples
- 1 cup of caramel sauce
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1 pre-made pie crust
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (for sprinkling)
- 1 tablespoon of butter (to dot on top)
Ingredient notes & substitutions
For the apples, Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work beautifully for their balance of tartness and sweetness. The caramel sauce can be store-bought, or you can make your own for a fresh touch. Don’t have lemon juice? A splash of apple cider vinegar can provide similar acidity to brighten the flavor.
How to make Caramel Apple Delight Pie
Making this pie is as easy as pie! Here’s how you can do it:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, caramel sauce, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Stir until the apples are well coated.
- Pour the apple mixture into the pie crust.
- Dot the top with butter and sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Caramel Apple Delight Pie!
Pro Tip: If you notice the edges of your pie crust browning too quickly during baking, you can cover them with strips of aluminum foil to prevent burning.
How to serve Caramel Apple Delight Pie
Serve slices still warm, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also drizzle additional caramel sauce on top for an extra indulgent finish. For a little crunch, consider adding chopped nuts as a garnish.
How to store Caramel Apple Delight Pie
This pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. If you want to freeze it, wrap the pie tightly in foil then freeze for up to a month. Reheat it in a warm oven for that freshly-baked taste.
Tips & troubleshooting
- Dry Pie: If the filling seems dry, you might not have used enough caramel sauce. Next time, try adding a bit more for a gooier filling.
- Bland Flavor: Ensure your apples are fresh and flavorful. A sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a touch more lemon juice can help brighten things up.
- Soggy Crust: To prevent this, make sure your apples are thoroughly coated in the filling and not overly juicy. Pre-baking the crust for a few minutes before adding the filling can also help.
- Overcooked Apples: Be sure to check your pie towards the end of the baking time; all ovens can vary.
Variations
Consider incorporating different total flavors or textures by adding nuts or raisins to the filling. You can also swap out some of the apple slices for pears for a lovely twist. If you want to make it gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free pie crust.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of apple?
Absolutely! While I recommend Granny Smith for their tartness, you can experiment with Fuji, Braeburn, or even a blend of your favorites to customize the flavor profile.
Can I freeze leftover pie?
Yes! You can freeze the pie for up to a month. Wrap it tightly in foil to avoid freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw in the fridge and reheat in the oven.
How long will this pie last?
In the fridge, your pie will stay fresh for about three days. Just make sure it’s covered to maintain its moisture.
Is there a way to make this a lighter dessert?
You can reduce the caramel sauce slightly or swap it out for a lighter caramel alternative. Using less sugar and opting for a healthier pie crust can also lighten things up without losing the delight.
Baking this Caramel Apple Delight Pie isn’t just about making a dessert; it’s about creating memories and indulging in comforting flavors. Enjoy the experience as much as the delicious outcome!
Caramel Apple Delight Pie
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, caramel sauce, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Stir until the apples are well coated.
- Pour the apple mixture into the pie crust.
- Dot the top with butter and sprinkle with sugar.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Caramel Apple Delight Pie!