Apple Pie with Flaky Crust

When it comes to comforting desserts, few can rival the classic appeal of a well-made pie. Among the myriad of pie recipes out there, the Crispy Caramel Apple Delight Pie stands out for its perfect blend of textures and flavors. Imagine a buttery, flaky crust cradling tart slices of fresh apple, all enveloped in a rich, decadent caramel sauce. This pie is not just a dessert; it's a celebration of fall flavors and a sweet reminder of home.

Discover the joy of baking with this Crispy Caramel Apple Delight Pie recipe! Featuring a flaky crust filled with tart apples and enveloped in a rich caramel sauce, this pie seamlessly blends textures and flavors. Perfect for fall gatherings or cozy nights at home, it’s a dessert that invites sweet memories and celebrations. Learn tips for crafting the perfect crust, choosing the right apples, and making homemade caramel sauce to elevate your pie to perfection.

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Ingredients

For the Flaky Crust:

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon sugar

1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

6-8 tablespoons ice water

For the Apple Filling:

6 cups tart apples (like Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and sliced

¾ cup brown sugar, packed

¼ cup granulated sugar

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon cinnamon

¼ teaspoon nutmeg

2 tablespoons cornstarch

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces

For the Caramel Sauce:

1 cup granulated sugar

6 tablespoons unsalted butter

½ cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

For Assembly:

1 egg (for egg wash)

1 tablespoon milk (for egg wash)

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Instructions

Prepare the Flaky Crust:

- In a large bowl, mix the flour, salt, and sugar. Add the cubed chilled butter.

- Using a pastry cutter or your fingertips, blend until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

- Gradually add ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overwork it.

- Divide dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.

Make the Apple Filling:

- In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with brown sugar, granulated sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cornstarch. Set aside to marinate for about 15 minutes.

Prepare the Caramel Sauce:

- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the sugar until it turns golden brown, stirring constantly. Be cautious not to burn it.

- Remove from heat and stir in butter until melted. Slowly add heavy cream, stirring continuously. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Allow it to cool slightly.

Assemble the Pie:

- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).

- Roll out one disc of dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Place the crust in the pie pan and trim the edges.

- Pour the apple filling into the crust and dot with pieces of butter. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the apples.

- Roll out the second disc of dough and cut into strips or leave whole for a top crust. Weave or place the strips over the apple filling.

- In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk for the egg wash. Brush the top crust with egg wash for a golden finish.

Bake the Pie:

- Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 30-35 minutes until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.

Finishing Touches:

- Once baked, allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before slicing. Drizzle remaining caramel sauce over individual slices before serving for an added treat!

Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes | Servings: 8