Apple Crumble Pie with Salted Caramel Butter: A Decadent Dessert to Steal the Show
When it comes to desserts that bring warmth, comfort, and a touch of indulgence, few can rival the charm of an Apple Crumble Pie drizzled with homemade salted caramel butter. This dessert is a symphony of textures and flavors: tender, cinnamon-kissed apples nestled in a buttery crust, topped with a golden, crunchy crumble, and elevated by the sweet-salty decadence of caramel. Whether you’re hosting a cozy family gathering, impressing guests at a dinner party, or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary, this recipe is your ticket to dessert perfection. 💛
In this article, we’ll guide you through every step of creating this gourmet masterpiece, share expert tips for success, and offer creative variations to make it your own. Let’s dive into the world of apple crumble pie and salted caramel bliss!
Why This Apple Crumble Pie is a Must-Try
Apple pie is a classic, but this version takes it to new heights with a few thoughtful twists:
- Buttery Shortcrust Pastry: A flaky, golden base that cradles the filling with just the right amount of richness.
- Cinnamon-Spiced Apples: Tender, juicy apples infused with warm spices for that quintessential autumn flavor.
- Crunchy Crumble Topping: A sandy, buttery crumble that adds irresistible texture.
- Salted Caramel Butter: A luscious, homemade sauce that balances sweet and salty, making every bite unforgettable.
This dessert isn’t just food—it’s an experience. The contrast of the warm pie and cool caramel, the crunch of the crumble against the softness of the apples, and the interplay of sweet and salty flavors will leave everyone reaching for seconds.
Ingredients for Apple Crumble Pie with Salted Caramel Butter
To create this show-stopping dessert, you’ll need ingredients for four components: the shortcrust pastry, the apple filling, the crumble topping, and the salted caramel butter. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Shortcrust Pastry:
- 200 g all-purpose flour – The foundation of your flaky crust.
- 100 g cold unsalted butter, cubed – Cold butter ensures a tender, flaky texture.
- 50 g granulated sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness to the dough.
- 1 large egg – Binds the dough and adds richness.
- Pinch of salt – Enhances the flavors.
For the Apple Filling:
- 4–5 medium apples (Golden Delicious or Granny Smith work beautifully) – Choose firm apples for the best texture.
- 50 g granulated sugar – Sweetens the filling without overpowering the apples.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon – Brings warmth and depth.
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour – Thickens the apple juices for a luscious filling.
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional) – Brightens the flavors and prevents browning.
For the Crumble Topping:
- 100 g unsalted butter, softened – Creates a sandy, crumbly texture.
- 100 g granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and crunch.
- 100 g all-purpose flour – Forms the base of the crumble.
- Pinch of salt – Balances the sweetness.
For the Salted Caramel Butter:
- 200 g granulated sugar – The base for the caramel.
- 100 g unsalted butter, cubed – Adds richness and gloss.
- 200 ml heavy cream, warmed – Creates a smooth, pourable sauce.
- 1 tsp fleur de sel or sea salt – The key to that addictive sweet-salty balance.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed instructions to create a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Each step is broken down to ensure success, even for beginner bakers.
Step 1: Prepare the Shortcrust Pastry
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 200 g flour, 50 g sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Add 100 g cold butter cubes and use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse breadcrumbs. Work quickly to keep the butter cold.
- Beat the egg lightly and add it to the mixture. Stir with a fork or your hands until the dough begins to come together.
- Form the dough into a ball, flatten it into a disc, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This resting period helps the dough relax and makes it easier to roll out.
Tip: If the dough feels too crumbly, add 1–2 teaspoons of cold water to help it come together. Don’t overwork the dough, as this can make it tough.
Step 2: Prepare the Apple Filling
- Peel, core, and thinly slice 4–5 apples. Aim for uniform slices to ensure even cooking.
- In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with 50 g sugar, 1 tsp cinnamon, 2 tbsp flour, and 1 tbsp lemon juice (if using). The flour will thicken the juices as the pie bakes, preventing a soggy crust.
- Set the apple mixture aside while you prepare the other components. This allows the flavors to meld.
Tip: Granny Smith apples add a tart contrast to the sweet caramel, while Golden Delicious offer a softer, sweeter bite. Feel free to mix varieties for a complex flavor.
Step 3: Make the Crumble Topping
- In a medium bowl, combine 100 g softened butter, 100 g sugar, 100 g flour, and a pinch of salt.
- Use your fingers or a fork to mix until the mixture forms a sandy, crumbly texture with some larger clumps. Don’t overmix—you want a rustic, uneven crumble.
- Set the crumble aside or refrigerate if making ahead.
Tip: For extra flavor, add a handful of rolled oats, chopped nuts (like almonds or pecans), or a pinch of nutmeg to the crumble.
Step 4: Create the Salted Caramel Butter
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, heat 200 g sugar over medium heat. Stir occasionally with a wooden spoon until the sugar melts and turns a deep amber color. This takes about 5–7 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
- Remove the pan from the heat and carefully add 100 g butter, stirring until fully melted. The mixture will bubble vigorously.
- Slowly pour in 200 ml warmed heavy cream while stirring constantly. The caramel will bubble again, but keep stirring until smooth.
- Stir in 1 tsp fleur de sel and let the caramel cool slightly. Transfer to a jar or bowl for serving.
Tip: Warm the cream in the microwave for 30–60 seconds before adding it to prevent the caramel from seizing. Store leftover caramel in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake the Pie
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Gently transfer it to the dish, pressing it into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough.
- Prick the bottom of the crust with a fork to prevent puffing during baking.
- Arrange the prepared apple slices evenly in the crust, piling them slightly higher in the center.
- Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the apples, covering them completely.
- Place the pie on a baking sheet (to catch any drips) and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the crumble is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbling.
- Remove from the oven and let the pie cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set.
Tip: If the crumble browns too quickly, cover the pie loosely with aluminum foil halfway through baking.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the warm pie and serve it with a generous drizzle of salted caramel butter. For an extra touch of indulgence, pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast of the warm pie and cool toppings is pure magic.
Tips for Perfect Apple Crumble Pie
- Choose the Right Apples: Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn hold their shape during baking. Softer varieties like McIntosh can turn mushy.
- Keep Ingredients Cold: For the flakiest crust, ensure the butter and dough stay cold until baking. If the kitchen is warm, chill the assembled pie for 10 minutes before baking.
- Make Ahead: The dough and crumble can be prepared a day in advance and stored in the fridge. The caramel can be made up to a week ahead and reheated before serving.
- Customize the Crumble: Add rolled oats, chopped nuts, or even a handful of dried cranberries to the crumble for extra texture and flavor.
- Control the Caramel: If you’re new to making caramel, use a candy thermometer to monitor the sugar. It should reach about 175°C (350°F) for the perfect amber color.
Creative Variations to Try
This apple crumble pie is endlessly adaptable. Here are some ideas to make it your own:
- Nutty Crumble: Add 50 g chopped pecans, walnuts, or almonds to the crumble for extra crunch.
- Spiced Caramel: Infuse the caramel with a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom for a warm, aromatic twist.
- Mixed Fruit Filling: Combine apples with pears, berries, or dried cherries for a unique flavor profile.
- Gluten-Free Option: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend in the crust, filling, and crumble.
- Vegan Version: Use vegan butter and replace the egg in the dough with a flaxseed egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water).
Serving Suggestions
This apple crumble pie shines on its own, but these serving ideas will take it to the next level:
- With Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla, cinnamon, or caramel ice cream complements the warm pie perfectly.
- With Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy, airy contrast.
- As a Brunch Treat: Serve smaller slices with coffee or tea for a decadent breakfast or brunch dessert.
- For the Holidays: Pair with a mug of mulled cider or hot chocolate for a festive treat.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Crumble Pie with Salted Caramel Butter is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and the joy of homemade baking. With its buttery crust, spiced apple filling, crunchy crumble, and luxurious caramel drizzle, it’s guaranteed to win hearts at any table. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is approachable yet impressive, making it a must-have in your dessert repertoire.
So, preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a dessert that’s as unforgettable as it is delicious. Don’t forget to share your creations with us in the comments or on social media—we’d love to see how your pie turns out! 🍎
