This Apple Caramel Pie with Walnuts is a delightful dessert that combines the sweetness of caramelized apples with the crunch of walnuts, all nestled in a buttery, tender cake. It’s a perfect treat for any occasion, bringing together classic flavors in a comforting and satisfying way. The caramelized apple topping adds a beautiful golden layer that complements the soft, moist cake beneath it. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this pie is sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Preparation Time:
- Active Preparation Time: 25 minutes
- Baking Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Topping:
- 700 grams apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 50 grams butter
- 70 grams sugar
- 100 grams walnut kernels
For the Dough:
- 130 grams butter, softened
- 130 grams sugar
- A pinch of salt
- 3 eggs
- 180 grams flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
Directions:
- Prepare the Apples:
- Peel, core, and slice the apples. Toss them with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to prevent browning and set aside.
- Caramelize the Apples:
- In a large skillet, melt 50 grams of butter over medium heat. Add 70 grams of sugar and stir until the sugar dissolves and starts to caramelize.
- Add the sliced apples to the caramel, stirring to coat them evenly. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the apples are tender but still hold their shape.
- Stir in the walnut kernels and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Grease and line a 26 cm diameter baking pan.
- In a mixing bowl, beat 130 grams of softened butter with 130 grams of sugar and a pinch of salt until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- In a separate bowl, sift together 180 grams of flour and 1 teaspoon of baking powder. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Spread the dough evenly in the prepared baking pan.
- Spoon the caramelized apples and walnuts over the top, spreading them out evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the pie to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve the pie warm or at room temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Drizzle with additional caramel sauce for a sweeter finish.
Cooking Tips:
- Use firm apples that hold their shape when cooked, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
- Be careful not to overmix the dough once the flour is added to keep the cake light and tender.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Apples: Provide dietary fiber and are rich in vitamin C.
- Walnuts: Add healthy fats, protein, and a satisfying crunch.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the walnuts if needed.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 320 kcal
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 100mg
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- This pie combines the classic flavors of caramel, apples, and walnuts in a delightful dessert.
- The tender cake and caramelized apple topping make for a satisfying and comforting treat.
- It’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations.
Conclusion: Apple Caramel Pie with Walnuts is a deliciously comforting dessert that’s sure to impress. The combination of sweet, caramelized apples and crunchy walnuts atop a soft, buttery cake makes this pie irresistible. Whether you’re serving it as the grand finale to a dinner party or enjoying a slice with your afternoon coffee, this pie is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy it warm with a scoop of ice cream, and savor the delightful flavors in every bite!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use a different type of nut instead of walnuts?
- Yes, pecans or almonds would also work well in this recipe.
- Can I make this pie in advance?
- Yes, you can make it a day ahead. Store it at room temperature or in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
- What can I use instead of butter for a dairy-free version?
- Substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil.
- Can I use a different type of sugar?
- Yes, brown sugar can be used for a deeper caramel flavor.
- What type of apples are best for this recipe?
- Firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji are ideal as they hold their shape well during cooking.
- How can I prevent the pie from becoming too sweet?
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith and reduce the amount of sugar slightly if desired.
- Can I freeze the pie?
- Yes, you can freeze the pie after baking. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Can I add spices to the dough or topping?
- Yes, adding cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice would complement the flavors nicely.
- How do I prevent the apples from becoming mushy?
- Cook the apples until they are just tender during the caramelization process to avoid them becoming too soft.
- Can I make this pie gluten-free?
- Yes, simply replace the flour with a gluten-free flour blend.