There is something truly magical about an Apple Pie with Pumpkin Caramel Sauce Recipe that combines the timeless comfort of a classic apple pie with the rich, velvety twist of pumpkin-spiced caramel sauce. This delightful dessert is perfect for cozy gatherings or a special treat at the end of a long day. It’s a harmonious blend of crisp, tender apples beneath a flaky crust, elevated by a luscious pumpkin caramel sauce that adds depth and warmth in every bite. Once you try this Apple Pie with Pumpkin Caramel Sauce Recipe, you might find it becoming your go-to dessert for the seasons when a little sweetness and spice are just what you need.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward making this dessert unforgettable. Each component comes together to enhance the texture, flavor, and appearance of the pie, marrying simplicity with delicious impact.
- Marie Callendar’s Dutch Apple Pie: The foundation of the dish, ready-made for ease without sacrificing homemade taste.
- Hot caramel sauce (1 cup): This jarred delight brings a sweet, buttery richness that melts beautifully over the pie.
- Pumpkin puree (¼ cup): Adds that signature creamy fall flavor, without the heaviness of pie filling.
- Pumpkin pie spice (½ teaspoon): A blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves that gives the caramel sauce its irresistible autumnal warmth.
How to Make Apple Pie with Pumpkin Caramel Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Dutch Apple Pie
Start by baking your Marie Callendar’s Dutch Apple Pie exactly as instructed on the package. This step ensures you have a warm, perfectly cooked pie with a golden crust and tender apple filling as the heart of your dessert.
Step 2: Make the Pumpkin Caramel Sauce
While the pie is baking, combine the hot caramel sauce with pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth, heated through, and aromatic. This sauce will offer a luxurious twist that complements the pie’s traditional flavors wonderfully.
Step 3: Drizzle and Serve
Once the pie has cooled slightly after baking, generously drizzle the pumpkin caramel sauce over slices or over the whole pie just before serving. The warm caramelized sauce adds an irresistible gleam and richness that makes every bite a treat.
How to Serve Apple Pie with Pumpkin Caramel Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts on top for an added crunch that contrasts beautifully with the smooth sauce. A dollop of freshly whipped cream or vanilla ice cream is another fantastic option that enhances the creamy decadence of the dessert.
Side Dishes
Serve your apple pie alongside a hot cup of spiced cider or a lightly brewed chai tea. These drinks complement the warm spices in the pie and pumpkin caramel sauce perfectly and create an inviting, cozy flavor experience.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, present individual slices on rustic wooden plates with a swirl of pumpkin caramel sauce artistically drizzled around. Adding a cinnamon stick or star anise as a decorative garnish can also elevate the aesthetic while hinting at the flavors inside.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover apple pie covered loosely with foil or plastic wrap in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 3 to 4 days to maintain the flaky crust and fresh apple filling.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked apple pie without the caramel sauce for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to protect from freezer burn. Freeze the pumpkin caramel sauce separately in an airtight container for best quality.
Reheating
To enjoy leftovers, warm the pie slices in a 350°F oven for about 15 minutes to revive the crust’s crispness. Reheat the pumpkin caramel sauce gently on the stovetop or microwave and pour over the warm pie slices for that signature, luscious finish.
FAQs
Can I make the pumpkin caramel sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Preparing the pumpkin caramel sauce in advance will save you time just before serving. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently before drizzling it over the pie.
Is fresh pumpkin puree better than canned?
While fresh pumpkin puree can enhance flavor and freshness, canned pumpkin puree works beautifully for this recipe and offers consistent texture and convenience.
Can I use another type of apple pie instead of Dutch style?
Yes, you can use your favorite apple pie variety. The Dutch style’s crumb topping adds texture, but a classic apple pie will also pair wonderfully with the pumpkin caramel sauce.
How spicy is the pumpkin caramel sauce?
The sauce carries a mild warmth from the pumpkin pie spice, balanced by the sweetness of the caramel. It’s flavorful without being overpowering, appealing to most palates.
Can this recipe be made vegan or dairy-free?
For a vegan or dairy-free version, look for a dairy-free caramel sauce and ensure the pie you buy aligns with those dietary needs or make a dairy-free pie crust at home.
Final Thoughts
There is something wonderfully comforting about Apple Pie with Pumpkin Caramel Sauce Recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It combines the traditional charm of apple pie with the exciting twist of a spiced pumpkin caramel sauce that will surely wow your family and friends. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and create your own delicious moments filled with sweetness, spice, and everything nice.
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Apple Pie with Pumpkin Caramel Sauce Recipe
A delightful twist on the classic apple pie featuring a luscious pumpkin caramel sauce made with pumpkin puree and warm caramel, perfect for autumn desserts.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients
Apple Pie
- 1 Marie Callendar’s Dutch Apple Pie prepared according to package instructions
Pumpkin Caramel Sauce
- 1 cup store bought hot caramel sauce
- ¼ cup pumpkin puree (not pie filling)
- ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Instructions
- Prepare the Pie: Follow the package instructions on the Marie Callendar’s Dutch Apple Pie to bake the pie, typically involving preheating the oven and baking for the recommended time until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbly.
- Make the Pumpkin Caramel Sauce: In a small saucepan over low heat, combine the store-bought hot caramel sauce, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice. Stir continuously until the mixture is smooth and heated through, ensuring the spices are fully incorporated.
- Serve: Once the apple pie is baked and slightly cooled, drizzle the warm pumpkin caramel sauce generously over each slice before serving for an indulgent fall-inspired dessert.
Notes
- Use pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to control sweetness and texture of the sauce.
- Store any leftover pumpkin caramel sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week; reheat gently before serving.
- For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts on top of the sauce when serving.
- Make sure the caramel sauce is warm but not boiling to prevent separation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
