Irresistible Caramel Pecan Apple Pie Recipe for Fall Delight
Do you love the smell of warm, freshly baked pie wafting through your home? Are you a fan of sweet, gooey caramel mixed with the crunch of pecans and tartness of apples? If your answer is yes, then you are in for a treat. Today’s recipe is a caramel pecan apple pie, a delicious twist to the classic apple pie.
As you may know, the process of making a homemade pie can seem daunting to some. But let me assure you, this recipe is easier than it seems. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, anyone can make this tasty dessert.
Plus, who doesn’t want to impress their friends and family with a homemade pie? Imagine serving this masterpiece at your next gathering or Thanksgiving dinner. You’ll be the talk of the town!
So come along on this baking adventure with me as I guide you through this step-by-step recipe for a mouth-watering caramel pecan apple pie. Trust me; it’s worth every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you a fan of apple pie, caramel, and pecans? If so, then this Caramel Pecan Apple Pie recipe is the perfect dessert for you! This heavenly pie combines all of these flavors in one delicious dish that will truly satisfy your sweet tooth.
There are many reasons why you will love this recipe. First and foremost, the combination of tart apples with sweet caramel and crunchy pecans creates a sensational taste in every bite. The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg add a comforting aroma to your kitchen as the pie bakes in the oven. Plus, the homemade crust has a tender and flaky texture that melts in your mouth.
Furthermore, this recipe is incredibly versatile. You can choose from a variety of apples such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp or Fuji for different textures and levels of sweetness. You can also adjust the amount of sugar or use maple syrup instead of corn syrup for a unique variation.
Whether you’re serving it at a dinner party or enjoying it with family on a relaxing day, this pie will be an irresistible hit for everyone. Trust me; your guests will be asking for seconds! Why not give it a try today and experience the ultimate combination of flavors in every delicious slice?
Ingredient List
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
- 4 to 5 tablespoons water, ice-cold
Ingredients for the Pie Filling
- 6 medium-sized apples, sliced and peeled
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- A pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
- A half cup of chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or margarine
- A half cup of corn syrup
Ingredients for the Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- A quarter cup of water
- A quarter cup of unsalted butter or margarine
- Three-fourths cup heavy cream
- One tablespoon lemon juice
(Note: In this recipe, we will make the caramel sauce from scratch. Alternatively, you can use a store-bought caramel sauce.)
Note: Before starting to make the pie or its components, remove any prepared ingredients from the refrigerator to bring them down to room temperature, as it will make them easier to handle.
The Recipe How-To
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s start baking this caramel pecan apple pie!
Step 1: Pie Crust
First, prepare the bottom crust of the pie. In a large bowl, mix together 1 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, ½ teaspoon salt, and 1 ½ tablespoons granulated sugar. Cut 1 stick of butter (or ½ cup margarine) into small cubes, and add it to the mixture using a pastry blender or your fingers until everything is incorporated. Pour in 3 to 4 tablespoons ice water to make the dough come together. Form it into a disk shape, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill for at least one hour.
While on the fridge, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). After chilling time is up, roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface until you reach about 12-inches in diameter. Use a rolling pin to transfer the crust into a 9-inch pie plate. Press down gently to fit it correctly into the dish.
Step 2: Pecan Apple Filling
In another large bowl, prepare the pecan apple filling of your pie. Start by adding 6 sliced peeled apples (preferably Granny Smith), 1/3 cup chopped pecans, 1 tablespoons lemon juice and stir gently until evenly distributed.
Next up are the dry ingredients for this mixture: add 3/4 cup packed brown sugar, 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. Mix again with a spoon or spatula until well blended.
Finally, pour in 3/4 cup babalu caramel syrup (or regular corn syrup) and 2 tablespoons maple syrup, stirring all ingredients one last time until fully combined. Gently pour this mixture over your prepared crust.
Step 3: Crumb Topping
A crumb topping goes very well with this pecan apple pie style. In another medium-sized bowl, mix together 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup packed brown sugar, and add a pinch of salt.
Cut in butter or margarine using your fingers until you achieve coarse crumbs. Toss in some more chopped pecans if desired and evenly distribute everything over your apple-pecan-caramel filling.
Step 4: Bake
Ready for baking! Place your pie on top of a foil-lined baking sheet (to catch any dripping happening during this process). Bake at for about 60-70 minutes in the oven, or until golden brown & bubbly.
Tip: To prevent your pie from becoming too runny, cover it loosely with aluminum foil after baking for about 40 minutes. Continue baking covered for another 20 minutes before removing the foil completely for the last ten minutes.
Step 5: Serve
Substitutions and Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are many ways you can customize this caramel pecan apple pie recipe to suit your taste:
1. Crust: You can use a store-bought crust if you’re short on time, or try a different type of crust altogether. A cinnamon graham cracker crust would complement the flavors of the pie nicely.
2. Apples: Granny Smith apples are the most popular choice for apple pies because they hold their shape well and have a tart flavor that balances the sweetness of the filling. However, you could also try using Honeycrisp or Braeburn apples for a slightly different taste.
3. Nuts: If you don’t like pecans, feel free to substitute them with walnuts or almonds. Alternatively, omit the nuts entirely if you prefer a nut-free pie.
4. Sauce: Drizzle some salted caramel sauce over the top of your caramel pecan apple pie for an added touch of decadence.
5. Mini pies: Instead of making one large pie, make mini individual pies by dividing the filling and pastry among several small ramekins. This is a great option if you want to portion control or want to impress guests with adorable desserts.
6. Toppings: Try a streusel topping by combining flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon with melted butter and sprinkling it over the top of the pie before baking.
7. Pie pans: This recipe calls for a 9-inch pie pan, but you could use smaller and shallower pans such as those designated for mini apple tarts for individual servings or use a muffin pan to make bite-sized desserts.
Remember to always consider ingredient ratios when making substitutions so that your pie retains its structural integrity and stays tasty. Don’t be afraid to experiment with various toppings and fillings; after all, this dish is about having fun in the kitchen!
Serving and Pairing
Now that you’ve successfully baked your caramel pecan apple pie, it’s time to consider how to serve and pair it. This pie is best served warm, after it has had time to cool for at least 10 minutes. Slicing into this rich and inviting aroma will make your mouth water with anticipation. A generous slice topped off with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped mocha cream is the perfect treat for any occasion.
If you’re looking to pair your caramel pecan apple pie with a drink, I suggest keeping it simple. A cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea is just the thing on a chilly evening, or maybe a glass of cold milk will be perfect for younger folks. If you prefer something stronger, a glass of red wine, such as Merlot, pairs nicely with this type of dessert.
Don’t forget to consider who will be enjoying your caramel pecan apple pie when selecting the perfect serving dish. A deep dish pie plate with fluted edges adds an elegant touch while also providing plenty of room for the filling. You can get creative and add some chopped pecans on top of the filling or sprinkle some crumb topping over it.
This pie is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to birthday parties, and even weddings. The versatility of this recipe means you can dress it up or keep it casual depending on the setting. So if you want a truly decadent dessert that can impress anyone, look no further than our delicious caramel pecan apple pie!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Ideally, freshly-baked Caramel Pecan Apple Pie would be enjoyed right after it comes out of the oven. But what if you don’t have enough time to bake a pie just before serving? Or, what if you’ve made too much for your guests to finish in one sitting? Fear not – this delectable dessert recipe can be easily stored, reheated, and even made ahead of time!
If you want to make the pie dough ahead of time, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. You can also freeze the dough for up to 1 month. If frozen, let it thaw completely in the fridge overnight before using.
For those who want to prepare the entire pie in advance and store it for later use, allow the baked pie to cool completely on a wire rack. Then cover it with aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating your previously baked apple pie, opt for bringing it down to room temperature first so that the filling doesn’t become runny or unevenly heated during the reheating stage. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat your pie (covered with aluminum foil) for around 15-20 minutes or until it’s warmed through.
Pro tip: To keep the pecan caramel topping intact while reheating in-the-oven, sprinkle a generous amount of chopped pecans over the top before covering it loosely with aluminum foil.
If microwaving is your preference, cut a slice of pie and microwave each piece separately for about 30 seconds each until evenly heated through.
Whether you’re prepping this delicious Caramel Pecan Apple Pie recipe ahead of time, storing leftovers for later enjoyment, or reheating slices from last night’s dinner party dessert – keeping these simple tips in mind will guarantee an indulgent taste sensation every time!
Tips for Perfect Results
As a culinary explorer, I understand the importance of not just following a recipe but also knowing how to make it perfect. That’s why in this section, I’ll share with you some tips and tricks that will help you achieve the perfect caramel pecan apple pie every time.
Firstly, when making the crust for the pie, make sure you use ice-cold water. Keeping the water cold will create a flaky and tender crust. It’s also essential not to overmix the dough as it can make it tough.
To ensure that the pie crust doesn’t stick to the pan, always brush butter on the bottom and sides of your baking dish. You can also sprinkle some flour or cinnamon graham crumbs for extra flavor.
When making caramel, you’ll need to cook it to an exact temperature to avoid undercooking or overcooking it. Use a candy thermometer instead of guessing. If it gets too hot, the caramel can become hard and brittle, while using low heat can lead to a runny sauce.
For juicy yet firm apples, choose Granny Smith apples as they are known for their tartness and firm texture. Slice them finely so that they cook evenly in the oven. Before adding them into the crust, mix them with cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and brown sugar.
While assembling your pie, scatter chopped pecans around evenly before drizzling the caramel sauce on top. Doing this ensures a crunchy texture in every bite.
Lastly, let your pie cool down completely before serving. Reheating or cutting into it while still hot can cause the bottom crust to become soggy and ruin your hard work.
In conclusion, these tips are tried and tested techniques that guarantee perfect results every time you make this caramel pecan apple pie recipe.
FAQ
As we wrap up this recipe article, let’s take a look at some frequently asked questions (FAQs) related to this caramel pecan apple pie recipe, to ensure that nothing stands in the way of a delicious and successful outcome.
How do you keep a pecan pie from being runny?
One common issue that can arise with pecan pies is that they turn out to be runny. The solution to this problem is pretty straightforward – you just need to make sure that you bake the pie for a sufficient amount of time. In general, the pie should bake for approximately 60 to 70 minutes at a temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Once the pie has finished baking, let it cool down and set for a while. By following these steps, you should be able to avoid any issues with your pecan pie turning out too runny.
Should I Prebake the bottom crust for apple pie?
Achieving a flawlessly baked pie crust that is crispy, golden brown, and compliments its filling can be quite a feat. However, one guaranteed method to accomplish this is by prebaking the crust. This involves baking the bottom crust on its own before adding any filling to it. This strategy has been proven effective in enhancing the overall texture and taste of a pie. As a culinary explorer, I’ve discovered some helpful tips and recommendations for achieving the perfect prebaked pie crust every time.
Can I substitute maple syrup for dark corn syrup in pecan pie?
When it comes to making a delicious pecan pie without corn syrup, I highly recommend using maple syrup and a touch of molasses. This combination provides a natural sweetness and a rich flavor that complements the pecans perfectly. Additionally, the filling sets nicely at the optimal temperature to create a silky smooth texture without any unsightly curdling.
What apples should not be used for apple pie?
When it comes to baking apple-based desserts, not all apples are created equal. Gala, Fuji, and Red Delicious apples, despite being tasty for munching on, don’t fare well in the oven and can result in a soggy, watery mess in your baked goods. For optimum results in your recipes, it’s best to seek out different types of apples that are better suited for baking.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this Caramel Pecan Apple Pie recipe is the perfect go-to recipe for dessert lovers. The combination of fresh apples, pecans, and caramel create a delicious flavor that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. With its easy-to-follow instructions and customizable variations, this recipe is a great addition to any baker’s collection. From holiday dinners to special occasions, this pie is sure to become a household favorite. So go ahead and give it a try, you won’t regret it! Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, and watch as your pies becomes the talk of the town. I hope you enjoy this delicious recipe as much as I do!
Caramel Pecan Apple Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 (9 inch) unbaked double pie crusts
- 1/4 cup butter or 1/4 cup margarine, melted
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup pecans, chopped
- 7 -8 apples, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/8 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons water
- 3 tablespoons butter or 3 tablespoons margarine
Instructions
- Melt 1/4 cup butter and pour into the bottom of the pie crust; spread to cover bottom.
- Sprinkle brown sugar over butter and cover with chopped pecans.
- Place apple slices in pie crust over the nuts and sugar.
- In a small bowl, mix together the granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Sprinkle over the apple slices.
- Sprinkle with water and dot apple slices with additional butter.
- Place top crust over apples and flute edges.
- Bake at 425° for 15 minutes.
- Reduce heat to 350° and bake for an additional 35-40 minutes.
- If fluted edges start to get too dark, cover with foil.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Mishra Vikas is a digital nomad who loves to explore the world and learn about its cultures. As a programmer, backpacker, and cook, he enjoys sharing his adventures and cooking up delectable dishes. Writing about his experiences, creating tasty recipes, and discovering new places are some of his favorite activities. He’s an avid traveler and passionate chef, always on the lookout for an exciting new journey.