How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie | Step-by-Step Recipe

Introduction

Today, we're diving into the delicious world of baking with a special treat: a Salted Caramel Apple Pie. This isn't just any apple pie, but a delightful twist on a classic, blending the rich, complex flavors of salted caramel with the fresh, tangy sweetness of apples. The perfect balance of salty and sweet, this pie promises to be a memorable dessert that stands out in any culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

• For the Salted Caramel:

  • 1 cup of sugar
  • 1/4 cup of water
  • 1/4 cup of heavy cream
  • 4 tablespoons of butter
  • 1 and 1/4 teaspoons of coarse salt (adjust to 3/4 teaspoon if using fine salt)

• For the Pie:

  • 3 pounds of apples (a mix of Granny Smith, McIntosh, Rome, and Cortland recommended)
  • 1/2 cup of sugar
  • 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
  • 3/4 teaspoon of coarse salt
  • 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
  • Pie crust for a 9-inch pie plate
  • Egg wash (1 whole egg)
  • Sanding sugar or regular sugar for sprinkling
  • A pinch of salt for finishing

Preparation Steps

1. Make the Salted Caramel: Combine sugar and water in a pot. Use a pastry brush to prevent crystals from forming. Cook until the mixture becomes a deep caramel color, then remove from heat and carefully add heavy cream, butter, and salt.
2. Prepare the Apples: Peel and slice the apples into half-inch wedges. Mix with sugar, lemon juice, salt, and flour. Then, incorporate the cooled caramel.
3. Assemble the Pie: Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch pie plate. Fill with the apple mixture. Cut additional dough into strips for a lattice top, weave, and seal the edges. Brush with egg wash and sprinkle with sugar and a pinch of salt.
4. Bake: Freeze the assembled pie for 20 minutes, then bake at 375°F until golden brown and bubbling, approximately 1 hour and 20 to 30 minutes.

Conclusion

The Salted Caramel Apple Pie is a testament to the magic that happens when traditional flavors meet a twist of modern culinary creativity. With its deep caramel notes, bursts of apple tanginess, and the perfect hint of saltiness, this pie is not just a dessert but a celebration of flavors. Whether for a special occasion or a cozy night in, it promises to bring warmth and joy to any table.