Caramel Apple Pie with Pecan Crust and Maple Whipped Cream

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cut into small pieces
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans

For the Filling:

• 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce (see note)

For the Whipped Cream:

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

To Make the Crust:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, brown sugar, salt, and granulated sugar.
• Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
• Stir in the chopped pecans.

To Assemble the Pie:

1. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the crust to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
2. Transfer the dough to a 9-inch (23 cm) pie dish and trim any excess dough from the edges.
3. Fill the pie crust with the sliced apples.

To Make the Filling:

1. In a separate bowl, mix together granulated sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Add this mixture to the apple slices and toss until they're evenly coated.
3. Dot the top of the filling with butter and drizzle with caramel sauce.

To Bake the Pie:

1. Roll out the remaining crust to a thickness of about 1/8 inch (3 mm).
2. Use this dough to cover the pie, crimping the edges to seal it.
3. Cut a few slits in the top crust for steam to escape.
4. Brush the crust with an egg wash or water.
5. Bake the pie for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

To Make the Whipped Cream:

1. In a small bowl, whip heavy cream until it begins to thicken.
2. Add maple syrup and continue whipping until stiff peaks form.

Notes:

• For caramel sauce, you can either use store-bought or make your own by melting 1/2 cup granulated sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, then slowly pouring in 1/4 cup heavy cream while whisking constantly.
• You can also toast the pecans in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes to enhance their flavor and texture.

Variations:

This recipe is versatile enough that you can modify it to suit your tastes. Some ideas include:

• Adding a sprinkle of sea salt on top of the pie before baking
• Using different types of apples, such as Granny Smith or Golden Delicious
• Swapping out maple syrup for another type of sweetener in the whipped cream

Enjoy your delicious Caramel Apple Pie with Pecan Crust and Maple Whipped Cream!