Autumn pie with apples and caramel

Autumn apple and caramel pie: a delicacy that blends the sweet and warm flavors of the season. This recipe is not just a dessert, but a true culinary experience, perfect for savoring on cool autumn days. The aroma of baked apples and caramel will spread throughout the house, bringing a sense of comfort and warmth. Whether you serve it at a gathering with friends or enjoy it with family, this pie will leave an unforgettable impression.

Preparation time: 45 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:

*For the pie crust (400g):*
- 250g all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 egg
- 150g cold butter, cubed
- 15ml cold water

*For the nut caramel:*
- 200g nuts
- 150g granulated sugar
- 30g butter

*For the apple filling:*
- 6 apples (preferably tart apples)
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-6 tablespoons sugar (depending on the sweetness of the apples)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the dough: Start by combining the flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Add the cold butter cubes and, using a mixer or your fingers, mix until you achieve a texture similar to wet sand. It is essential for the butter to be cold to obtain a flaky crust. Add the egg and cold water, then knead gently until the dough becomes smooth and soft. Avoid over-kneading, as this can lead to a tough crust. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to 160°C (medium setting) to ensure it is ready when your pie is complete.

3. Rolling out the dough: Once the dough has rested, sprinkle a little flour on a clean work surface. Roll out the dough with a rolling pin until you get a thin sheet, about 5mm thick. Use a cutter or a bowl to cut out two circles of 30cm, one for the base of the pie and the other for the top.

4. Preparing the nut caramel: In a medium saucepan, add the sugar and butter over medium heat. Stir constantly to avoid burning the sugar. Once the mixture reaches a boil, continue stirring until it turns a golden color. Add the nuts and mix well. Immediately pour the caramel into the prepared tart pan, ensuring it spreads evenly.

5. Preparing the apple filling: Peel the apples, remove the seeds, and cut them into small cubes. In a separate bowl, mix the apple cubes with cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sugar. The amount of sugar can vary depending on the sweetness of the apples used. Add the apple mixture on top of the caramel in the tart pan.

6. Assembling the pie: Cover the filling with the second disc of dough. Gently press the edges with wet fingers to seal the pie. You can also decorate the surface with a few cuts to allow steam to escape during baking.

7. Baking: Beat an egg yolk and brush the surface of the pie with it for a golden and shiny crust. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the crust is golden and crispy.

8. Serving: Let the pie cool for a few minutes before slicing. It is delicious served warm, alongside cream, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream. The flavors combine wonderfully, and each slice will bring a touch of joy to your soul.

Practical tips:
- Use apples with higher acidity, such as Granny Smith apples, to create a pleasant contrast with the sweetness of the caramel.
- If you want a more gourmet version, you can add some pecans or toasted almonds to the apple filling.
- For an exotic touch, experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or ginger.

Nutritional benefits:
Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamin C, while nuts provide protein and healthy fats. Despite the sugar content, the pie can be a decent choice, especially if consumed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other types of nuts? Absolutely! You can replace the nuts with pecans or almonds, depending on your preferences.
- How can I store the pie? You can keep it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat it gently in the oven to restore its crispy texture.

Possible variations:
- Add some raisins or dried cranberries to the apple filling for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Replace the nuts with chopped dark chocolate to create a decadent chocolate and caramel pie.

This autumn apple and caramel pie not only satisfies your sweet cravings but will also leave you with pleasant memories every time you make it. Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and savor the flavors of this delicious recipe!