Caramel Apple Galette with Pecan Crust and Vanilla Ice Cream

Introduction

As the leaves change colors and the air grows cooler, our thoughts turn to warm, comforting desserts that capture the essence of autumn. Enter this show-stopping caramel apple galette, featuring a buttery pecan crust, tender apples, and a rich, creamy vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients

For the Pecan Crust

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups chopped pecans

For the Apple Filling

• 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted

For the Caramel Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Make the Pecan Crust

Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Add in the softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms. Stir in the chopped pecans and vanilla extract. Press this mixture into the bottom of a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.

Make the Apple Filling

In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until the apples are evenly coated with the dry ingredients. Drizzle in the melted butter and mix until just combined.

Assemble the Galette

Arrange the apple filling on top of the pecan crust in a circular pattern, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges. Fold the edges of the crust up over the apples to form a crusty border.

Bake the Galette

Bake the galette for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.

Make the Caramel Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine the heavy cream, granulated sugar, and butter. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the caramel has thickened slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Serve

Serve the galette warm with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce on top.

Tips & Variations

• To add an extra layer of flavor to your galette, sprinkle some chopped pecans or cinnamon over the apples before baking.
• If you prefer a crisper crust, bake the galette for an additional 5-10 minutes.
• For a fun twist, try using different types of apples or adding in some dried cranberries or cherries to the apple filling.