Caramel Apple Pie

Homemade Caramel Apple Pie Recipe – Easy Fall Dessert

ByBella Skye
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Caramel Apple Pie

Caramel apple pie is a timeless dessert that captures the essence of comfort and celebration in every bite. It’s everything you love about a traditional apple pie but elevated with rich, buttery caramel that melts into the tender apple filling. Each slice is a balance of sweet and tart, wrapped in a flaky golden crust that’s perfectly crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. The flavor depth comes from the combination of spiced apples and smooth caramel sauce that turns each forkful into a warm, cozy experience.

More Hearty Desserts

Whether it’s for a family dinner, a holiday table, or a quiet weekend treat, this pie never fails to impress. Home cooks love it because it’s easy to prepare yet looks and tastes like something from a bakery. The contrast between the soft apples, gooey caramel, and buttery crust makes it a dessert worth savoring and sharing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This caramel apple pie is pure comfort and indulgence in one bite. The buttery, flaky crust pairs perfectly with soft, spiced apples coated in rich, golden caramel. It’s sweet, slightly tart, and melts together beautifully, making it a dessert everyone will remember.

You’ll love how approachable it is even for beginner bakers. Simple steps and easy ingredients create a pie that looks bakery-worthy without the stress. It’s flexible too: use homemade or store-bought caramel, tart or sweet apples, and either a classic or ready-made crust.

The aroma alone makes it worth baking warm cinnamon, buttery pastry, and caramelized apples filling your kitchen. Whether served warm with ice cream or cool with a drizzle of caramel, this pie feels like a cozy hug in dessert form simple, satisfying, and absolutely irresistible.

Caramel Apple Pie

Preparation and Cooking Time, also serving

  • Preparation time: 25 minutes
  • Cooking time: 55 minutes
  • Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
  • Servings: 8 slices

Ingredients

  • 2 refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade 9-inch crusts)
  • 6 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • ½ cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into cubes
  • 1 egg (for egg wash)
  • 1 tablespoon milk

Substitution Notes:

  • If you don’t have brown sugar, use all white sugar with a tablespoon of molasses.
  • Honeycrisp apples give a softer texture while Granny Smith brings tartness.
  • Use coconut sugar for a less refined option, or gluten-free flour if needed.
Caramel Apple Pie

Step-by-Step Instructions

pie cake

Step 1: Prepare the Pie Crust

Unroll or roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan, leaving a slight overhang around the edge. Keep it chilled while preparing the filling to maintain flakiness.

pie cake

Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling

In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with both sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt. Toss until every apple slice is evenly coated. Let it sit for 10 minutes so the juices can release slightly.

pie cake

Step 3: Add the Caramel Layer

Pour half of the caramel sauce over the apple mixture and toss again. This creates a rich coating that caramelizes while baking. Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust, then drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top. Dot with butter cubes for added richness.

pie cake

Step 4: Add the Top Crust

Place the second crust over the pie. You can go classic by sealing and crimping the edges or create a lattice design for a rustic look. Cut a few small slits in the top crust to let steam escape. Brush with a mixture of beaten egg and milk for that perfect golden shine.

pie cake

Step 5: Bake the Pie

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until the crust is deep golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil halfway through.

pie cake

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the pie cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before slicing. This allows the caramel and apple filling to set properly. Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

How to Serve

  • Decorate for Special Occasions: Add caramelized apple slices or a sprinkle of crushed pecans on top of the pie before serving to make it festive for holidays or dinner parties. Presentation adds that extra wow factor with minimal effort.
  • Serve Warm with Ice Cream: The classic way to enjoy caramel apple pie is slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The contrast between hot pie and cold ice cream makes every bite creamy, sweet, and satisfying as the ice cream slowly melts into the caramel sauce.
  • Drizzle with Extra Caramel: For a dessert that feels restaurant-quality, drizzle warm caramel sauce over each slice right before serving. It gives the pie a glossy finish and enhances the richness of the filling.
  • Pair with Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a soft, airy texture that balances the dense caramel filling. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cream for extra warmth and flavor.
  • Add a Dusting of Powdered Sugar: For a clean, bakery-style presentation, dust each slice with powdered sugar before serving. It creates a lovely contrast against the golden crust and adds a subtle sweetness.
  • Serve with Coffee or Hot Apple Cider: The pie pairs beautifully with hot beverages. Coffee enhances the caramel’s roasted flavor, while apple cider complements the apple filling and spices, making it ideal for fall gatherings.
  • Make It a Dessert Platter: If you’re hosting, cut the pie into small wedges and serve with other mini desserts like brownies or cheesecake bites. A small bowl of caramel dip or whipped cream on the side lets guests customize their bites.
  • Chill and Serve Cold: For a completely different experience, serve the pie chilled. The caramel firms up slightly, giving it a candy-like texture, while the apples remain tender. It’s perfect for summer or when you want something refreshing yet indulgent.

Additional Tips

  • Chill the dough before baking to prevent shrinking.
  • Always cool the pie before cutting to let the filling firm up.
  • For deeper flavor, mix a tablespoon of apple cider into your caramel sauce.
  • A pinch of sea salt on top enhances the sweetness.
  • If you want a thicker filling, add an extra tablespoon of flour.
  • Bake on a lower rack so the bottom crust turns crisp.

Recipe Variations

  • Caramel Apple Pecan Pie: Add ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the apple filling before baking. The nuts give a pleasant crunch and toasty flavor that pairs perfectly with the caramel sauce. You can also sprinkle extra caramelized nuts on top for a bakery-style finish.
  • Salted Caramel Apple Pie: Use salted caramel instead of regular caramel sauce to balance the sweetness of the apples. Add a light sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top after baking. This version is elegant and perfect for those who enjoy a sweet-salty contrast in desserts.
  • Dutch-Style Caramel Apple Pie: Skip the top crust and replace it with a crumb topping made from ½ cup flour, ¼ cup brown sugar, and 3 tablespoons cold butter. Mix until crumbly and sprinkle evenly over the filling. It bakes into a buttery, golden topping with a soft crunch that complements the caramel apple filling beautifully.
  • Mini Caramel Apple Pies: Use muffin tins to create individual servings. Line each cup with a small round of dough, fill with apple-caramel mixture, and top with another mini crust or crumb topping. Perfect for parties, picnics, or lunchbox treats.
  • Caramel Apple Hand Pies: Roll out the dough and cut into circles. Place a spoonful of caramel apple filling in the center, fold, and crimp the edges. Brush with egg wash and bake until golden. These handheld pies are ideal for serving at outdoor events or gifting.
  • Caramel Apple Pie with Oat Crumble: For a heartier texture, mix oats and chopped almonds into your crumb topping. It adds chewiness and rustic charm, making the pie even more satisfying.
  • Caramel Apple Cheesecake Pie: Layer a thin cheesecake mixture under the caramel apple filling for a creamy twist. The combination of tart apples, rich caramel, and smooth cheesecake makes this version indulgent yet balanced.
  • Spiced Caramel Apple Pie: Enhance the flavor by adding a pinch of ground cloves or cardamom to the apple mixture. These warm spices add depth and aroma, making the pie even more comforting for fall and winter gatherings.

Freezing and Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
  • Refrigerate for up to 5 days; reheat slices in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until warm.
  • To freeze, wrap the baked and cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
  • Avoid microwaving directly; it can make the crust soggy.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 410
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Carbohydrates: 62g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugar: 36g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Sodium: 240mg

Final Words

Caramel apple pie is more than just dessert; it’s the kind of recipe that connects generations, fills homes with the scent of butter and cinnamon, and brings a sense of nostalgia to every bite. The combination of tender spiced apples, golden flaky crust, and rich caramel sauce feels luxurious but is still simple enough for any home baker to master. Each slice delivers the perfect balance of sweet and tart with a velvety caramel finish that lingers beautifully on the palate.

When you bake this pie at home, you’re not only making something delicious you’re creating an experience. The bubbling caramel as it bakes, the way the crust crisps just right, and the aroma that fills your kitchen all make it feel special. It’s the kind of dessert that gathers people around the table and starts conversations. Whether you serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cold from the fridge the next morning, it’s irresistible every time.

Don’t be afraid to make it your own. You can play with the spices, drizzle salted caramel over the top, or even turn it into mini pies for parties. The beauty of caramel apple pie lies in its versatility it’s a classic that invites creativity. Once you’ve made it, you’ll understand why it’s such a beloved recipe for holidays and cozy weekends alike. So take the time to make this pie, share it with people you love, and let the comfort of homemade baking remind you how good simple food can be.

FAQ’s

Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works fine, but homemade caramel gives a richer flavor.

Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples hold their shape and balance the sweetness.

Absolutely. Bake a day in advance and store at room temperature covered loosely with foil.

Bake on a lower rack and brush the bottom crust lightly with egg white before adding the filling.

Yes, use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust and filling thickener.

Yes, warm them in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes for the best texture.

Homemade Caramel Apple Pie Recipe - Easy Fall Dessert
Print

Homemade Caramel Apple Pie Recipe – Easy Fall Dessert

Recipe by Bella SkyeCourse: Desserts
Servings

8

servings
Prep time

25

minutes
Cooking time

55

minutes
Calories

410

kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 refrigerated pie crusts (or homemade 9-inch crusts)

  • 6 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

  • 1 cup brown sugar, packed

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon

  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice

  • ½ cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into cubes

  • 1 egg (for egg wash)

  • 1 tablespoon milk

Directions

  • Unroll or roll out your pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie pan, leaving a slight overhang around the edge. Keep it chilled while preparing the filling to maintain flakiness.
  • In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples with both sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and salt. Toss until every apple slice is evenly coated. Let it sit for 10 minutes so the juices can release slightly.
  • Pour half of the caramel sauce over the apple mixture and toss again. This creates a rich coating that caramelizes while baking. Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust, then drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the top. Dot with butter cubes for added richness.
  • Place the second crust over the pie. You can go classic by sealing and crimping the edges or create a lattice design for a rustic look. Cut a few small slits in the top crust to let steam escape. Brush with a mixture of beaten egg and milk for that perfect golden shine.
  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 50 to 55 minutes or until the crust is deep golden and the filling is bubbling around the edges. If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil halfway through.
  • Let the pie cool at room temperature for at least 2 hours before slicing. This allows the caramel and apple filling to set properly. Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Notes

  • Chill the dough before baking to prevent shrinking.
  • Always cool the pie before cutting to let the filling firm up.
  • For deeper flavor, mix a tablespoon of apple cider into your caramel sauce.
  • A pinch of sea salt on top enhances the sweetness.
  • If you want a thicker filling, add an extra tablespoon of flour.
  • Bake on a lower rack so the bottom crust turns crisp.

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