Salted Caramel Upside Down Apple Pie Recipe

If there is one dessert that combines the cozy warmth of fall flavors with a touch of indulgent luxury, it has to be this Salted Caramel Upside Down Apple Pie Recipe. Picture tender, spiced apples layered on a bed of buttery pecans, all enveloped in a flaky crust and topped with rich, homemade salted caramel glaze. This pie flips dessert expectations on their head—literally—offering a delightful surprise with each slice. Whether you’re craving a comforting treat on a chilly evening or looking to impress friends with a show-stopping dessert, this recipe delivers every time with its perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this pie lies in its simple, thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each element plays a vital role in creating the rich textures and layers of flavor, from the crisp tartness of the apples to the nutty pecan and the luscious salted caramel. Getting these right is your first step toward pie perfection.

• 2 9-inch Pie Crusts: Use homemade or store-bought to create the flaky base and top that holds the delicious filling.
• 2 oz Unsalted Butter, melted: Creates the luscious base for the caramel pecan topping, helping to meld flavors together beautifully.
• 100 grams Brown Sugar: Adds deep, caramelized sweetness both in the topping and filling, ensuring every bite has that classic pie warmth.
• 63 grams Pecans, chopped: Introduces a lovely crunch and nutty dimension to the base layer under the apples.
• 8 Medium Apples (Granny Smith or cooking variety): Tart, firm apples provide the perfect balance to the sweet caramel and spices.
• 2 Tablespoons Lemon Zest and 2 Tablespoons Lemon Juice: Brightens the filling with fresh citrus notes, preventing it from tasting too heavy.
• 63 grams All-Purpose Flour: Helps thicken the apple filling to a perfect consistency without sogginess.
• 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: Infuses the filling with warm, comforting spice.
• ½ teaspoon each Ground Cloves and Allspice: Add an extra layer of depth and holiday nostalgia.
• 4 oz Homeade salted caramel or store-bought (plus extra for drizzling): The star ingredient that ties everything together with a silky-sweet salty finish.
• Ice Cream, Whipped Cream, or Bird’s Custard (for serving): Perfect companions that enhance every forkful of this pie.

How to Make Salted Caramel Upside Down Apple Pie Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pecan Caramel Topping

Start by lining your pie plate with foil and giving it a generous coating of cooking spray to prevent sticking. In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, brown sugar, and the chopped pecans. This mixture will become the rich, crunchy base that caramelizes beautifully when baked. Evenly spread this mixture into the bottom of your pie plate, then gently press one pie crust right on top of this bed of caramel pecans. Set this aside, giving the flavors a chance to meld as you move on to the apple filling.

Step 2: Make the Apple Filling

Peeling and coring your apples is a breeze, but slicing them into uniform ¼-inch pieces is key for even cooking. Toss the apples with lemon zest, lemon juice, flour, brown sugar, and the trio of spices—cinnamon, cloves, and allspice—for a fragrant, well-rounded filling. Layer half of this apple mixture on top of your pie crust, then drizzle with half of your salted caramel. Repeat with the remaining apples and caramel. This layering ensures that every bite bursts with that sumptuous caramel flavor enveloping the tender apples.

Step 3: Assemble and Chill

Place the second pie crust over your piled apples and carefully seal the edges with a fork, ensuring the filling stays secure during baking. Slice four one-inch vents in the pie crust’s center to let steam escape, which helps maintain that flaky crust texture. Pop the pie into the fridge for 30 minutes. This chilling step is crucial—it helps the crust relax and prevents it from shrinking as the pie bakes, keeping the presentation flawless.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375F (191C), then place the pie on the middle rack and bake for 50 to 55 minutes. Keep an eye at the 35-minute mark—if the crust is browning too fast, cover it loosely with foil to avoid burning. Use an instant-read thermometer to make sure the filling reaches 175F (79C), signaling that your apples are perfectly cooked and melded with the caramel. Let the pie cool on a wire rack for about 30 minutes before flipping it out onto a serving dish—the magic moment when the caramel pecan layer appears on top, glossy and irresistible.

How to Serve Salted Caramel Upside Down Apple Pie Recipe

Garnishes

The salted caramel drizzle that finishes the pie is non-negotiable—it adds a glossy, rich finish that makes this dessert shine. For extra decadence, serve slices with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. Bird’s custard is a classic touch that pairs beautifully with the spiced apples and salted caramel, adding warmth and smoothness on the palate.

Side Dishes

This pie stands tall on its own, but if you want to round out your dessert spread, consider simple coffee or strong black tea to balance the sweetness. For brunch or holiday gatherings, pair it with a light salad of fresh greens and citrus vinaigrette to refresh and contrast the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive twist, dust the pie with a little powdered sugar or adorn slices with toasted pecan halves. Serving individual mini upside-down pies in ramekins can make for a charming presentation and personalized portions. Don’t forget a rustic wooden board or a beautiful ceramic plate to elevate the appearance and invite eager hands!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once enjoyed, wrap any leftover pie tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator. It will keep its superb flavors and texture for up to 5 days, making it an ideal make-ahead treat for busy weeks or unexpected guests.

Freezing

This Salted Caramel Upside Down Apple Pie Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap the cooled pie securely and freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the oven at 325F (163C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy and take away that beautiful crispness you worked hard to achieve.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! While Granny Smith apples provide the perfect tartness and hold their shape well, you can experiment with Fuji, Honeycrisp, or Jonathan apples. Just keep an eye on moisture content as some varieties are juicier and may need a bit more flour in the filling.

Do I have to make homemade salted caramel?

Not at all! Store-bought salted caramel sauces work beautifully in this recipe and save time without sacrificing flavor. If you’re up for it, homemade caramel adds a personal touch and can be customized to your salt preference.

Can I make this pie vegan or dairy-free?

Yes! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use a vegan pie crust. For the caramel, you can find dairy-free varieties or make your own using coconut milk and coconut sugar to keep that rich caramel flavor.

What if I don’t have a deep dish pie pan?

A standard 9-inch pie pan can work, but your pie may be slightly shallower or require extra care with the filling layers. You might consider reducing the apple quantity or adding a baking dish for extra support to prevent spillage.

How can I prevent the crust from getting soggy?

Chilling the pie before baking is key—it helps the dough relax and sets the butter tight. Also, sealing vents for steam to escape and using flour in the apple filling to absorb excess juices keeps the crust crisp and flaky.

Final Thoughts

This Salted Caramel Upside Down Apple Pie Recipe has a special place in my heart. It’s that kind of dessert that brings comfort and celebration together in a single slice. I hope you give it a whirl, impress your friends, or simply treat yourself to moments of pure indulgence. With its inviting aroma, irresistible crunch, and decadent caramel drizzle, this pie promises to become a beloved classic in your kitchen too.

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