Irresistible Dutch Caramel Apple Pie Recipe

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Dutch Caramel Apple Pie has been my ultimate fall comfort food for as long as I can remember. The aroma of warm cinnamon and baked apples filling my kitchen instantly transports me back to cozy evenings spent with family. I’ve always loved how the tartness of the apples perfectly balances the sweet, gooey caramel, all nestled within a flaky, buttery crust and topped with a delightful crunch. It’s like a hug in pie form! I’ve experimented with so many variations, but this recipe truly captures that magical flavor profile. You’ll find it’s surprisingly simple to achieve that perfect balance, even if you’re new to baking. Let’s get baking this classic Dutch Caramel Apple Pie!

Why You’ll Love This Dutch Caramel Apple Pie

This isn’t just any apple pie; it’s a symphony of fall flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Here’s why it’s bound to become your go-to:

The perfect balance of tart apples and sweet, gooey caramel.
A wonderfully flaky crust that holds its own against the rich filling.
The irresistible crunchy crumb topping adds delightful texture.
It’s a showstopper dessert, perfect for holidays and gatherings.
Simple enough for beginner bakers but impressive enough for experts.
The aroma alone is worth making this pie – pure autumn bliss!
Just like a simple maple cider salmon recipe, this pie is easy to master.
It pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, much like how a maple cider salmon glaze complements its dish.

Ingredients for Dutch Caramel Apple Pie

Gathering these ingredients is the first delicious step toward a perfect fall dessert. You’ll need a good mix of sweet and tart for the apples, just like how a simple maple cider salmon recipe uses balanced flavors.

1 (9-inch) pie crust – store-bought or homemade, chilled
6 to 7 cups tart apples, peeled, cored, and sliced – Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work wonderfully for that perfect tartness
2 teaspoons lemon juice – brightens the apple flavor
1/3 cup granulated sugar – for overall sweetness
2 tablespoons brown sugar – adds a hint of molasses flavor
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – the quintessential warm spice
3/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – complements the cinnamon beautifully
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves – for a deep, warm note
1/4 teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness
1/4 cup all-purpose flour – thickens the apple filling
25 to 26 soft caramel candies, unwrapped – the star of our gooey center
2 tablespoons heavy cream – to help melt the caramels into a smooth sauce
1 cup all-purpose flour – for the crumb topping
2/3 cup brown sugar – adds moisture and flavor to the topping
1/8 teaspoon salt – enhances the topping’s sweetness
1 stick (8 tablespoons) unsalted butter, softened – crucial for a crumbly topping texture
1 egg, beaten – for an egg wash to help the topping brown
Coarse sugar, for sprinkling (optional) – adds a delightful crunch and sparkle

How to Make Dutch Caramel Apple Pie

Get ready to fill your kitchen with the most amazing fall aromas! This recipe breaks down making a Dutch Caramel Apple Pie into simple, manageable steps, much like preparing a quick maple cider salmon dinner.

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Take your chilled pie crust and gently press it into a 9-inch pie pan. Crimp the edges decoratively, then pop the pan into the refrigerator to keep the crust firm while you prepare the fillings.
Step 2: Let’s make that luscious caramel sauce. In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the 25 to 26 soft caramel candies with the 2 tablespoons heavy cream. Stir constantly until the candies are completely dissolved and you have a smooth, glossy sauce. It should smell wonderfully sweet! Set aside 1/2 cup of this delicious caramel for the apple filling and reserve the rest for drizzling later.
Step 3: Now for the apples! In a large bowl, toss the 6 to 7 cups sliced tart apples with the 2 teaspoons lemon juice. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the 1/3 cup granulated sugar, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 3/4 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon cloves, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 cup all-purpose flour. Pour this spice mixture over the apples and stir gently until they are evenly coated. Finally, fold in the reserved 1/2 cup caramel sauce until the apples are beautifully glazed.
Step 4: Time for the irresistible crumb topping. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2/3 cup brown sugar, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Add the 1 stick (8 tablespoons) softened unsalted butter. Use your fingers or a pastry blender to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This topping is key to that classic Dutch crunch.
Step 5: Assemble your masterpiece! Pour the caramel-coated apple filling into the chilled pie crust, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the apples, ensuring full coverage. Brush the edges of the pie crust with the beaten egg, and if you like, sprinkle with coarse sugar for an extra sparkle and crunch.
Step 6: Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown topping and to see the filling bubbling around the edges. If the topping starts to brown too quickly before the filling is ready, simply tent the pie loosely with aluminum foil.
Step 7: Patience is a virtue here! Once baked, carefully remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2-3 hours. This allows the filling to set properly, preventing a messy slice. This resting period is crucial, much like letting a baked maple cider salmon rest before serving. Before serving, warm up the remaining caramel sauce and drizzle it generously over the top. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate treat.

Pro Tips for the Best Dutch Caramel Apple Pie

Achieving that perfect slice of Dutch Caramel Apple Pie is all about a few key techniques. I’ve found these tips make a huge difference:

Always use a mix of apple varieties! Combining tart apples like Granny Smith with slightly sweeter ones like Honeycrisp gives the filling a more complex flavor.
Chill your crust thoroughly before baking. This ensures a flaky, crisp bottom, which is essential for any great pie, much like ensuring your maple cider salmon is perfectly cooked.
Don’t skimp on the caramel sauce – make sure it’s smooth and rich. A good caramel makes all the difference.
Let the pie cool completely! This is probably the hardest part, but it’s critical for the filling to set up properly. Rushing this step leads to a runny pie.

What’s the secret to perfect Dutch Caramel Apple Pie?

The real secret lies in the balance of tart apples, rich caramel, and a perfectly crisp crumb topping. Using slightly underripe, tart apples and ensuring your caramel sauce is glossy and smooth are key elements. It’s a bit like mastering a maple cider salmon glaze – the right balance is everything.

Can I make Dutch Caramel Apple Pie ahead of time?

Yes, you absolutely can! You can prepare the pie crust and the crumb topping a day in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. You can also assemble the entire pie a few hours before baking and keep it chilled. Just be aware that the crust might need a little extra baking time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Dutch Caramel Apple Pie?

The most common mistake is cutting into the pie too soon; always let it cool for at least 2-3 hours so the filling sets. Another pitfall is using apples that are too soft or sweet, which can make the filling mushy. Ensure your butter is softened but not melted for the crumb topping, too!

Best Ways to Serve Dutch Caramel Apple Pie

This Dutch Caramel Apple Pie is a star on its own, but it truly shines when paired with the right accompaniments. Imagine a slice, still warm, with a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream melting into the caramel and apples – pure bliss! Another fantastic option is a dollop of freshly whipped cream, light and airy, providing a perfect contrast to the rich pie. For a more sophisticated touch, consider serving it with a small side of crème fraîche or even a drizzle of extra caramel sauce. Its flavor profile also makes it a wonderful partner for a simple maple cider salmon, much like how a maple glazed salmon with apple cider creates a delightful sweet and savory experience.

Nutrition Facts for Dutch Caramel Apple Pie

This decadent pie is a wonderful treat, and understanding its nutritional breakdown can help you enjoy it mindfully. A single slice offers a satisfying portion of this classic fall dessert. Think of this as similar to understanding the nutritional impact of a healthy maple cider salmon dish.

Calories: Approximately 400
Fat: Around 16g
Saturated Fat: N/A
Protein: About 3g
Carbohydrates: Approximately 58g
Fiber: N/A
Sugar: N/A
Sodium: N/A

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Dutch Caramel Apple Pie

Ensuring your delicious Dutch Caramel Apple Pie stays fresh means proper storage. After it has completely cooled (this is crucial for the filling to set!), you can store it at room temperature for up to one day, covered loosely with foil or plastic wrap. For longer storage, transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you find yourself with extra pie and want to save it for a future craving, freezing is a fantastic option! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. To reheat, you can warm individual slices in a microwave for about 30 seconds or bake whole pies or slices in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This method ensures you can enjoy every last bit of this amazing pie, much like how you’d store and reheat leftovers of a simple maple cider salmon for a quick meal.

Variations of Dutch Caramel Apple Pie You Can Try

While this classic Dutch Caramel Apple Pie is incredible as is, I love experimenting with different twists! You can adapt it to suit your dietary needs or simply to explore new flavor combinations. Think of it like exploring different ways to prepare maple cider salmon – there are so many delicious possibilities!

Gluten-Free Delight: Easily make this recipe gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for both the filling and the crumb topping, and a gluten-free pie crust. The flavor and texture remain fantastic, making it a wonderful option for everyone, just like a gluten-free maple cider salmon recipe.
Spiced Pear & Caramel Twist: Swap out about half of the apples for ripe pears. Pears add a different kind of sweetness and a lovely texture that pairs beautifully with caramel. It’s a subtle yet delightful change, offering a unique flavor profile similar to experimenting with a maple glazed salmon with apple cider.
Bourbon Caramel Apple Pie: For an adult-friendly twist, add a tablespoon or two of bourbon to the caramel sauce. It deepens the caramel flavor and adds a sophisticated warmth. This would be like adding a special ingredient to a simple maple cider salmon glaze for an extra kick.
Mini Pie Perfection: Instead of one large pie, use mini tart pans or muffin tins to create individual Dutch Caramel Apple Pies. They bake faster and are perfect for parties or for portion control.