This Toffee Apple Pie is a sweet treat that combines soft apples and sticky toffee goodness all wrapped in a flaky crust. It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Who can resist warm pie, especially when it smells like autumn? I love serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. Pure comfort and happiness! 🍏🥧
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Apples: Granny Smith apples are great for their tartness, but you can also use Braeburn, Honeycrisp, or even a mix of apples for varied flavors. Just make sure to use firm apples for the best texture.
Butter: Unsalted butter is ideal, as it lets you control the salt level. If you’re dairy-free, coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative works well without sacrificing flavor.
Brown Sugar: A key player in the toffee flavor! You can substitute with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic option, or use maple syrup for a different but still sweet twist.
Heavy Cream: This contributes to the smooth toffee sauce. If you’re looking for a lighter option, replace it with half-and-half or even soy or almond cream for a dairy-free version.
Pie Crust: Store-bought crusts save time, but if you want to make it from scratch, I highly recommend using a simple butter crust for a flakier texture.
How Do You Get Perfectly Caramelized Toffee Apples?
The toffee sauce is what takes this pie to the next level. To make perfect caramelized apples, follow these tips:
- Cook the butter and sugars over medium heat, stirring gently to avoid burning.
- Be patient! Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly before adding the cream.
- Mix the apples with the cinnamon and nutmeg before adding them to the toffee. It enhances the spice flavor!
- Let the filling cool a bit before pouring into the crust. This helps to avoid a soggy bottom.
With these tips, you’ll create a delightful Toffee Apple Pie that is sure to impress!
Toffee Apple Pie
Ingredients:
- For the Pie:
- 1 double pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
- 6 large apples (such as Granny Smith or Braeburn), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- For the Toffee Filling:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- A pinch of salt
- For the Topping:
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This pie will take about 20 minutes of prep time and an additional 45-55 minutes to bake, plus 2 hours to cool. In total, you should set aside about 3 hours to create this delightful dessert. It’s worth every minute, especially when you get to enjoy the first slice!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Crust:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Begin by rolling out one pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie pan. Carefully place it in the pan and trim the edges, leaving a bit of overhang.
2. Make the Toffee Sauce:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the brown sugar and granulated sugar, stirring well to combine. Let this mixture simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes until the sugars are dissolved and start to caramelize.
3. Combine with Cream:
Slowly stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract into the toffee mixture, continuing to stir until it’s smooth and slightly thickened. Once combined, remove the skillet from the heat.
4. Prep the Apples:
In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with the ground cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and a pinch of salt. Make sure all the apples are evenly coated.
5. Mix in the Toffee Sauce:
Gently add the warm toffee sauce to the apples and toss to combine. Allow the mixture to cool for a few minutes before using it to fill the pie crust.
6. Fill the Pie:
Carefully pour the toffee apple mixture into the prepared pie crust and spread it out evenly.
7. Create the Lattice Top:
Roll out the second pie crust and cut it into strips to make a lattice pattern over the pie. Weave the strips over and under to create the lattice. Trim and seal the edges by pressing them together and crimping as desired.
8. Egg Wash the Pie:
Brush the lattice top with the beaten egg to give it a beautiful golden color as it bakes.
9. Bake the Pie:
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
10. Cool the Pie:
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool on a wire rack for at least 2 hours. This helps the filling to set properly.
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar if you like. This Toffee Apple Pie is delicious served warm or at room temperature, with a dollop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on the side for extra indulgence!
This pie beautifully marries the tartness of baked apples with rich, silky toffee in a crispy lattice crust—delicious and comforting!
Can I Use Different Types of Apples?
Absolutely! While Granny Smith and Braeburn are great choices for their balance of sweetness and tartness, you can also mix in Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for a unique flavor combination. Just make sure the apples are firm to prevent a soggy pie.
How Can I Store Leftover Pie?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place slices in the microwave for about 30 seconds or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make the Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the pie in advance! Assemble it and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. If you want to bake it ahead, you can also bake it fully and then refrigerate it, reheating slices before serving.
What Should I Serve with Toffee Apple Pie?
This pie is delicious on its own, but pairing it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream adds a wonderful creaminess that complements the warm, gooey filling perfectly!
