Are you craving a warm, comforting dessert that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This easy caramel apple crumble pie recipe is the perfect blend of sweet, tart, and delightfully crunchy. It's a crowd-pleaser that's guaranteed to impress, even if you're a beginner in the kitchen. Forget complicated baking – this recipe delivers homemade goodness with minimal fuss, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special occasions. Let's dive into this delicious journey!
Ingredients:
For the Caramel Apple Filling:
- 6 medium apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix), peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
For the Crumble Topping:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
Get started with the apple filling:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish.
- In a large bowl, gently toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, caramel sauce, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and lemon juice. Make sure the apples are evenly coated.
Prepare the crumble topping:
- In a separate bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
- Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Assemble and bake the pie:
- Pour the apple filling into the prepared pie dish.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the filling.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the topping browns too quickly, cover the edges loosely with aluminum foil.
Cool and serve:
- Let the pie cool on a wire rack for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and prevents a messy serving experience.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Caramel Apple Crumble Pie:
- Apple Selection: Using a mix of apple varieties adds complexity to the flavor profile. Granny Smith provides tartness, while Honeycrisp offers sweetness and juiciness.
- Don't Overmix: Gently toss the apples to avoid breaking them down too much, which can lead to a mushy filling.
- Cold Butter is Key: Using cold butter in the crumble topping creates a flaky texture.
- Baking Time: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your pie and adjust baking time as needed. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when it's done.
Variations:
- Spiced Crumble: Add a pinch of ginger or cardamom to the crumble topping for a warm, aromatic twist.
- Nutty Crumble: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts into the crumble for added texture and flavor.
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Spread a layer of softened cream cheese over the apple filling before adding the crumble for a delightful creamy contrast.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: Approximately 18-22g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 45-50g
- Protein: Approximately 4-5g
Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy caramel apple crumble pie recipe is a delightful addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It’s perfect as a quick dinner idea or a special occasion treat. Enjoy the deliciousness of homemade cooking with this fantastic dessert!