Caramel Apple Crumble Pie

Caramel Apple Crumble Pie

Introduction
There’s something truly comforting about the warm, sweet aroma of caramel and apples baking together. This Caramel Apple Crumble Pie is the ultimate dessert for cozy autumn days or holiday gatherings. The blend of tart apples, rich caramel, and a crunchy, buttery crumble topping makes each bite a little piece of heaven. This pie is a delightful twist on the classic apple pie, bringing a deeper, caramelized sweetness that’s irresistible.

Ingredients
For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 3-4 tbsp ice water

For the Filling:

• 5-6 medium tart apples (Granny Smith works best), peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)

For the Crumble Topping:

• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust: In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cubed butter and blend with a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Slowly add ice water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough holds together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Make the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss until the apples are well coated. Drizzle with caramel sauce and mix gently to combine.
3. Roll Out the Crust: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Transfer the crust to the pie pan, pressing it into the edges and trimming any excess.
4. Assemble the Pie: Pour the apple filling into the crust, spreading it evenly.
5. Prepare the Crumble Topping: In a bowl, mix flour and brown sugar. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is crumbly. Add chopped pecans if using, then sprinkle the crumble topping over the apple filling.
6. Bake the Pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. If the crust edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil.
7. Cool and Serve: Let the pie cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Conclusion
This Caramel Apple Crumble Pie is a celebration of classic flavors with a twist. Each slice offers a symphony of textures—from the flaky crust to the gooey caramel apples and the crispy crumble on top. Perfect for holiday dinners or a weekend treat, this pie will have everyone reaching for seconds. Enjoy a slice of autumn’s finest dessert with your loved ones