If you’re on the hunt for a show-stopping dessert that hits the sweet, salty, and buttery trifecta, look no further than Salted Caramel Apple Pie. Imagine slices of tart and sweet apples snuggled in a golden, flaky crust, each layer wrapped in a dreamy cinnamon sugar hug, and the whole thing dripping with warm, homemade salted caramel. This pie is every bit as comforting as it sounds, perfect for holiday tables or simply making any chilly day feel like a celebration.

Salted Caramel Apple Pie Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Salted Caramel Apple Pie is in the simplicity of its ingredients, each one bringing something special to the table. From sturdy apples to the buttery crust and luscious caramel, these staples work together to create layers of flavor and texture you’ll absolutely love.

All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of our crust—sturdy yet tender, just what your pie needs to hold all that juicy filling.
Salt: A pinch brings out the best in both the crust and caramel, giving a subtle savory lift that lets every flavor shine.
Granulated Sugar: Sweetens both the crust and caramel, and helps the filling meld together beautifully as it bakes.
Unsalted Butter, Cold and Cubed: The secret to that impossibly flaky pie crust and the rich, glossy caramel.
Ice Water: Keeps your dough cool for maximum flakiness—don’t be tempted to skip this small but mighty step.
Apples (Granny Smith + Honeycrisp recommended): A blend gives the perfect balance of tart and sweet, plus they hold their shape superbly when baked.
Brown Sugar, Packed: Adds moisture and a whisper of molasses to the filling, deepening the pie’s flavor.
All-Purpose Flour (for filling): Thickens the juices so your pie slices hold together perfectly when served.
Ground Cinnamon & Ground Nutmeg: These spices give your apple filling its warmly spiced, irresistible aroma.
Lemon Juice: Brightens everything up, keeping the apples from browning and balancing the sweetness.
Vanilla Extract: Ties the flavors together with a mellow, fragrant finish.
Heavy Cream: The key to creamy, dreamy salted caramel that pours like a dream over your finished pie.
Flaky Sea Salt: A generous sprinkle crowns the caramel, making every bite pop with sweet-salty perfection.

How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Pie

Step 1: Prepare the Crust

Start by whisking together your flour, salt, and sugar in a large mixing bowl. Cut in the diced cold butter until the mixture is crumbly—think little pea-sized bits of butter hiding in the flour. This is your ticket to the flakiest crust ever. Gradually stir in ice water, just enough for the dough to come together. Gently pat it into two discs, wrap each tightly, and let them rest in the fridge for at least an hour. Trust me, this chill time is worth every minute!

Step 2: Make the Salted Caramel

While the dough chills, let’s work on that heavenly salted caramel. Pour granulated sugar into a saucepan and heat it gently, swirling now and then until it melts and turns a deep amber color. This is where all that caramel flavor is born! Whisk in the butter until fully melted, then carefully add the heavy cream—the mixture will bubble up, so take care. Once smooth, finish with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and let it cool slightly. Resist the urge to eat it straight from the pot, but I won’t tell if you sneak a spoonful.

Step 3: Prepare the Apple Filling

Toss your sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. The mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples keeps things perfectly balanced—not too tart, not too sweet. The sugars and spices meld with the apple juices, wrapping every piece in warm, fragrant flavor that makes Salted Caramel Apple Pie so special.

Step 4: Assemble the Pie

On a well-floured surface, roll out one dough disc to fit your 9-inch pie dish. Carefully lay it in, coaxing it into the corners. Pile the apple mixture high—the apples will cook down in the oven, so don’t be shy! Drizzle a generous half-cup of your homemade salted caramel over the apples, saving the rest for serving. Roll out your second dough disc and lay it over top, or get creative with a lattice pattern. Seal and crimp the edges, cut a few slits for steam, and if you want that glossy bakery finish, brush the crust with a bit of egg wash.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pop your assembled Salted Caramel Apple Pie in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 20 minutes, then reduce the heat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for another 35 to 40 minutes. You’re looking for a deep golden crust and bubbling filling peeking through the vents. Let it cool at least two hours before slicing—this helps the juices thicken so every piece comes out picture-perfect. Drizzle with more caramel just before serving and get ready for happy sighs all around!

How to Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie

Garnishes

A flourish of extra salted caramel sauce over each slice brings out all the decadent flavors, while a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream adds a creamy, cool contrast. A light dusting of flaky sea salt on top is the secret finishing touch that really makes each bite pop.

Side Dishes

Serve Salted Caramel Apple Pie alongside a hot mug of spiced chai or fresh-brewed coffee to round out the cozy feel. If you’re entertaining, a simple green salad with a citrusy vinaigrette is a refreshing counterpoint to all that rich, gooey goodness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking the pie in mini tart pans for personal-sized showstoppers, or serve slices in parfait glasses layered with Greek yogurt or extra caramel. For a rustic touch, pair with hand-thrown pottery plates and a scoop of ice cream melting dramatically down the side—picture-perfect for holidays or weekend gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Salted Caramel Apple Pie covered at room temperature for one day, or wrap it and refrigerate for up to four days. The caramel keeps things moist, and the flavors get even cozier after a night in the fridge.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked (and fully cooled) pie, wrapped well in plastic and foil, for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. If you want to get ahead, you can also freeze the unbaked pie and pop it directly into the oven—just plan on adding a few extra minutes to the bake time.

Reheating

To reheat, cover your pie with foil and warm in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 15 to 20 minutes, or just until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, individual slices can be microwaved for 20–30 seconds. Always drizzle with fresh salted caramel right before serving to revive that gooey, irresistible finish!

FAQs

Can I use only one type of apple for this pie?

While you can use a single apple variety, blending Granny Smith with Honeycrisp gives a mix of tart and sweet that makes Salted Caramel Apple Pie truly special; if you use just one, lean toward a firm, tart apple for the best texture and flavor.

Do I have to make my own caramel sauce?

Homemade salted caramel takes this pie over the top, but if you’re pressed for time, a good-quality store-bought caramel sauce can be used in a pinch—just be sure to choose one with a rich, buttery flavor, and stir in a pinch of flaky salt to mimic the homemade touch.

How do I keep my bottom crust from getting soggy?

To avoid a soggy bottom, sprinkle a thin layer of flour or crushed graham crackers over the base before adding the filling or bake your pie in the lower third of the oven so the base gets a blast of heat.

Can Salted Caramel Apple Pie be made ahead?

Absolutely! In fact, the flavors deepen after a night in the fridge, so feel free to bake it a day ahead—just remember to reserve some caramel for drizzling right before serving.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover pie?

Gently warm slices in the oven covered with foil, or pop them in the microwave for a quick treat; always add fresh salted caramel just before serving for maximum gooey decadence.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about a freshly baked Salted Caramel Apple Pie—it has all the comfort of a classic with an irresistible twist. If you’re ready to win hearts (your own included!), gather your apples and give this recipe a whirl. You won’t regret a single bite.