If fall had a flavor, it would be caramel apple walnut pie. This dessert is everything you crave in a warm, cozy treat: tart apples, sticky caramel, buttery crust, and the nutty crunch of toasted walnuts. It’s rich but not overwhelming, sweet but balanced, and perfect for every festive gathering — from Thanksgiving dinners to casual Sunday cravings.
Just like our fruit custard recipe offers a chilled sweet finale, this pie brings a warm, gooey experience straight from the oven.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Crust:
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unsalted butter (chilled and cubed)
- ½ tsp salt
- 6–8 tbsp ice water
For the Filling:
- 6 cups sliced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work great)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 cup chopped walnuts (lightly toasted)
- ¾ cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
For the Topping:
- 1 egg yolk + 1 tbsp milk (egg wash)
- Extra caramel and chopped walnuts (optional)
Let’s Talk Apples: Best Varieties for Pie
Not all apples bake the same. For best results, use a mix of:
- Granny Smith – tart, firm, holds shape
- Honeycrisp – sweet, juicy, bakes evenly
- Braeburn – mild and balanced flavor
Avoid overly soft apples like Red Delicious, which can turn mushy.
Looking for apple alternatives? Pears or peaches also work great in a similar style, like our peach banana smoothie captures fruit fusion beautifully.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Pie Crust
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Add chilled butter and cut it into the flour using a pastry cutter or fork until crumbly.
- Add ice water one tablespoon at a time until dough holds together.
- Divide dough in half, shape into discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 1 hour.
Pro Tip: Cold butter is key to that flaky crust we all love!
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- In a large bowl, toss sliced apples with lemon juice.
- Add both sugars, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Gently fold in caramel sauce and toasted walnuts.
Tip: Toast walnuts lightly in a pan for 3–4 minutes to enhance their flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Pie
- Roll out one dough disc and line your 9-inch pie dish.
- Pour the apple-caramel-walnut mixture evenly.
- Roll out the second dough disc for the top crust — either full or lattice style.
- Brush with egg wash for a golden finish.
- Cut slits in the top crust if using a full sheet.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 55–65 minutes or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
- If the edges brown too quickly, cover with foil.
Let the pie cool at least an hour before slicing — this helps the caramel set and slices hold their shape.
Serving Suggestions
| Pair With | Reason |
|---|---|
| Vanilla ice cream | Classic combo for warm pie |
| Whipped cream | Adds a light texture |
| Masala chai | Sweet-spicy blend complements apple flavor |
| Hot chocolate | Cozy winter duo |
Bonus: Use leftover pie as a breakfast treat with a scoop of Greek yogurt!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Slice)
- Calories: ~420
- Fat: 23g
- Carbs: 55g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 3g
Keep in mind these values can vary depending on ingredients and serving size.
Make It Your Own – Variations
| Variation | Idea |
|---|---|
| Gluten-Free | Use almond flour crust or gluten-free flour blend |
| Vegan | Replace butter with vegan margarine and use non-dairy caramel |
| No Nuts | Skip walnuts or sub with oats for crunch |
| Mini Pies | Use muffin tins to make individual portions |
Like flexible dessert options? You’ll enjoy our dry fruit modak for festive, bite-sized treats.
Storage & Reheating Tips
- Room Temperature: Up to 2 days covered with foil
- Fridge: 5–6 days in an airtight container
- Freezer: Up to 2 months (wrap tightly)
- Reheat: In oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10–15 minutes for best texture
Microwaving can work but may soften the crust.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next day.
Absolutely — it’s a time saver and still delicious!
Let it cool longer. The caramel needs time to thicken and set.
Whether you’re prepping for the holidays, a potluck, or a cozy weekend dessert, this caramel apple walnut pie delivers big-time flavor with nostalgic comfort. The warm spices, rich caramel, and nutty crunch all come together to make one unforgettable dessert.
And if you’re in the mood for more fusion desserts, keep your eyes peeled — we’ve got coffee jam and pineapple habanero jelly recipes coming next that’ll blow your mind.
