This Dutch Caramel Apple Pie is the ultimate autumn dessert, combining a flaky, buttery crust with a mountain of tender, spiced apples. What sets this version apart is the luscious layer of rich caramel sauce that coats the apples, adding a deep, treacly sweetness that traditional apple pies lack. The entire masterpiece is finished with a thick, golden-brown streusel topping made from oats, brown sugar, and butter, providing a satisfyingly crunchy contrast to the soft fruit filling.

To achieve the best results, a mix of tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp is recommended to balance the sweetness of the caramel. The process involves par-baking your crust to ensure it stays crisp, then mounding the prepared apple filling high before drizzling it generously with homemade or high-quality store-bought caramel. After baking until the filling is bubbly and the crumble is a deep golden hue, it is essential to let the pie cool completely to allow the caramel and juices to set, making it perfect for slicing and serving with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Key Ingredients

• 1 deep dish pie crust, store-bought or homemade
• 6 large Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and sliced 1/4 inch thick
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/2 cup salted caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
• 1 cup light brown sugar
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour (for topping)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• 2/3 cup rolled oats

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C) and prepare your pie crust in a 9-inch pie plate, crimping the edges as desired.
2. In a large mixing bowl, toss the sliced apples with lemon juice, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup flour, cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg or cloves if desired.
3. Transfer the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust, mounding them slightly in the center.
4. Drizzle 1/2 cup of salted caramel sauce evenly over the top of the apple filling.
5. In a separate medium bowl, combine the brown sugar, 3/4 cup flour, and oats; cut in the butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until crumbly clumps form.
6. Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the apples, covering the filling completely without pressing down.
7. Bake for 20 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C) and continue baking for 25–35 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
8. Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool completely on a wire rack for at least 3 hours to set.
9. Drizzle with additional caramel sauce just before slicing and serving.

This Dutch Caramel Apple Pie is the ultimate comfort dessert, combining tender, spiced apples with a buttery, crunchy streusel topping and a decadent caramel drizzle. It serves as a perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings or cozy family dinners, offering a sophisticated balance of textures and warm, autumnal flavors that are sure to impress your guests.

For the best experience, serve each slice warm with a generous scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream to complement the rich caramel notes. Whether you are baking for a special occasion or simply craving a classic treat, this recipe provides a reliable and delicious way to bring the inviting aroma of baked apples and cinnamon into your home.