Ingredients:

Topping:

• 700 grams apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 50 grams butter
• 70 grams sugar
• 100 grams walnut kernels, chopped

Dough:

• 130 grams butter, softened
• 130 grams sugar
• Pinch of salt
• 3 eggs
• 180 grams flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

Baking Instructions:

• Temperature: 180°C (356°F)
• Time: 40 minutes
• Baking Pan Diameter: 26 cm (10 inches)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Apples:

• In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice. This helps prevent browning and adds a bit of tartness.

2. Make the Caramel Sauce:

• In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the sugar until it’s fully dissolved and the mixture starts to caramelize. Be careful not to burn it. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring constantly.

3. Prepare the Topping:

• Add the sliced apples to the caramel sauce and mix until the apples are well coated. Stir in the chopped walnuts. Set aside to cool slightly.

4. Prepare the Dough:

• Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
• In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
• In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, mixing until just combined.

5. Assemble the Pie:

• Roll out the dough on a floured surface and transfer it to a 26 cm (10-inch) pie pan. Press it into the bottom and sides of the pan. Trim any excess dough.
• Spoon the apple and caramel mixture into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.

6. Bake:

• Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly. Check the pie halfway through baking; if the edges are browning too quickly, cover them with foil.

7. Cool and Serve:

• Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving. This will help the filling set and make it easier to slice. Serve warm or at room temperature, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

Possible Questions:

Can I use a different type of apple?

• Yes, you can use any variety of apples that are good for baking, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. They should be firm and tart to balance the sweetness of the caramel.

Can I make this pie ahead of time?

• Absolutely! You can prepare the pie a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature. Reheat in the oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 10-15 minutes before serving.

Can I freeze this pie?

• Yes, you can freeze the baked pie. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before reheating.

Can I use store-bought pie crust?

• Yes, if you prefer a quicker option, you can use store-bought pie crust. Simply fit it into the pan and proceed with the caramel apple filling.

Cooking Tips:

• Uniform Apple Slices: Try to slice the apples into even pieces to ensure uniform cooking and consistent texture.
• Avoid Overmixing: When making the dough, mix just until the ingredients are combined to avoid a tough crust.
• Monitor Baking: Keep an eye on the pie as it bakes, especially towards the end, to prevent overbrowning.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze cooled pie in a freezer-safe container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Reheat before serving.

Nutritional Facts (per serving, based on 8 servings):

• Calories: Approximately 320
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 25g

Conclusion:

This Apple Caramel Pie with Walnuts is a fantastic dessert that combines sweet, tart apples with rich caramel and crunchy walnuts. The buttery crust adds the perfect finishing touch to this delectable treat. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a comforting homemade dessert, this pie is sure to satisfy. Enjoy every delicious bite of this easy-to-make and delightful dessert!