Indulge in the richness of this sumptuous dessert that perfectly combines the classic comfort of a traditional apple pie with a sophisticated touch of calvados. The crunch of pecans contrasts wonderfully with the softness of the caramelized apples, while the calvados elevates the entire dish, giving it an extra layer of flavor that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
Most ingredients in this recipe are common ones found in many households, but you may need to head to the supermarket for a few special items. Calvados, for example, is an apple brandy from the French region of Lower Normandy. It's not a staple in every kitchen, but it's worth the trip to the store for its unique flavor. Granny Smith apples are used for their tartness, which balances out the sweetness of the pie. Pâte Brisée is a simple French pastry that's quite different from the usual pie crust and can be found in the frozen section of your local supermarket or you can make it from scratch.
Ingredients for Caramelized Apple-Pecan Pie with Calvados
Pecans: These add a great crunch and nutty flavor to the pie. Unsalted butter: This is used to caramelize the apples and make the custard. Sugar: This is used with the butter for caramelizing the apples. Granny Smith apples: These apples are crisp and tart, which helps balance the sweetness of the pie. Calvados: This apple brandy adds a unique, sophisticated flavor to the pie. Light brown sugar: This sweetens the custard. Light corn syrup: This adds sweetness and smooth texture to the custard. All purpose flour: This thickens the custard. Eggs: These are essential for the custard. Pure vanilla extract: This adds flavor to the custard. Pâte Brisée pie shells: These serve as the base of the pie and are different from typical pie crusts.
One reader, Fancy Talbott says:
The caramelized apple-pecan pie with calvados recipe is a game-changer! The combination of sweet apples, crunchy pecans, and the hint of calvados creates a symphony of flavors. The pie is a showstopper at any gathering, and the aroma alone is enough to make mouths water. Highly recommended!
Techniques Required for Making Caramelized Apple-Pecan Pie with Calvados
How to caramelize apples: In a large nonstick skillet, melt butter with sugar over high heat. Add the apples and cook, stirring frequently, until browned, approximately 12 to 14 minutes. Add the calvados and cook until evaporated. Let cool.
How to make pâte brisée pie shells: This involves making a classic French pie crust. The technique includes combining flour, salt, and butter, then adding cold water to form a dough. The dough is then chilled, rolled out, and fitted into pie pans.
How to toast pecans: Spread the pecans on a rimmed baking sheet and bake for 7 minutes at 350°F, or until lightly toasted. Transfer to a plate and let cool.
How to make whipped cream: Beat heavy cream with a mixer until soft peaks form. Add sugar and vanilla extract, then continue to beat until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overmix.
How To Make Caramelized Apple-Pecan Pie with Calvados
A lovely combination of flavors is on full display in this apple-pecan pie. Calvados or apple brandy imparts this dessert with more depth of flavor.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 2½cupspecans,(about ½ lbs)
- 1½stickunsalted butter,(6 oz)
- ¼cupsugar
- 4largegranny smith apples,peeled
- 2tbspcalvados,or other apple brandy
- 1½cupslight brown sugar,packed
- 1½cupslight corn syrup
- 2tbsp.all purpose flour
- 6largeeggs
- 1tbsppure vanilla extract
- pate brisee pie shells
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
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Spread the pecans on a rimmed baking sheet and bake for 7 minutes, or until lightly toasted. Transfer to a plate and let cool.
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Reduce the oven temperature to 325 degrees F.
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In a large nonstick skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of the butter with the sugar over high heat. Add the apples and cook for 12 to 14 minutes, stirring frequently, until browned.
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Add the Calvados and cook until evaporated. Let cool.
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In a large bowl, combine the brown sugar with the corn syrup, flour and the cooled melted butter and beat until smooth.
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Beat in the eggs and vanilla.
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Spoon the caramelized apples into the Pâte Brisée Pie Shells and pour the custard on top.
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Scatter the pecans on the custard, lightly pressing them in.
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Bake in the lower third of the oven for about 1 hour, or until the crusts are golden and the custard is set.
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Cover the crusts loosely with foil if they brown too quickly.
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Let the pies cool on a wire rack before cutting into wedges.
Nutrition
- Calories: 403.69kcal
- Fat: 21.68g
- Saturated Fat: 6.99g
- Trans Fat: 0.35g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 9.23g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.03g
- Carbohydrates: 51.15g
- Fiber: 2.95g
- Sugar: 46.58g
- Protein: 4.21g
- Cholesterol: 92.53mg
- Sodium: 52.07mg
- Calcium: 42.15mg
- Potassium: 174.38mg
- Iron: 0.94mg
- Vitamin A: 105.50µg
- Vitamin C: 0.17mg
Helpful Technique for Perfecting Caramelized Apple-Pecan Pie
When caramelizing the apples, ensure you stir them frequently to prevent them from burning. The goal is to achieve a deep golden brown color, which brings out the natural sweetness of the apples. Additionally, when adding the calvados, be careful as the alcohol can ignite. If you're not comfortable with this, you can remove the pan from the heat before adding the calvados, then return it to the heat once the alcohol has been incorporated.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Dessert
Prepare the ingredients: Gather and prepare all the ingredients and equipment needed before starting the recipe to streamline the cooking process.
Use pre-made pie crusts: Save time by using store-bought pâte brisée pie shells instead of making the crust from scratch.
Multi-task: While the pecans are toasting in the oven, prepare the caramelized apples to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Organize the workspace: Keep the kitchen organized and clean as you work to avoid unnecessary clutter and save time on cleaning up later.
Prep in advance: Prepare the caramelized apples and custard a day ahead to save time on the day of serving, allowing the flavors to meld and intensify.
Substitute Ingredients For Caramelized Apple-Pecan Pie with Calvados Recipe
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pecans – Substitute with walnuts: Walnuts have a similar rich, nutty flavor and a slightly softer texture, making them a suitable substitute for pecans in the pie.
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unsalted butter – Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative to butter, providing a subtle coconut flavor and richness to the pie.
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sugar – Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a rich, caramel-like sweetness to the pie, complementing the apples and pecans.
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granny smith apples – Substitute with honeycrisp apples: Honeycrisp apples offer a sweet and tart flavor with a crisp texture, making them a great substitute for granny smith apples in the pie.
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calvados – Substitute with apple cider: Apple cider can provide a similar apple flavor and aroma, enhancing the pie's filling without the alcoholic content of calvados.
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light brown sugar – Substitute with coconut sugar: Coconut sugar can be used as a natural alternative to brown sugar, adding a caramel-like sweetness to the pie filling.
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light corn syrup – Substitute with honey: Honey can replace corn syrup, offering a natural sweetener with a hint of floral notes, enhancing the flavor of the pie filling.
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all purpose flour – Substitute with almond flour: Almond flour can be used as a gluten-free alternative, adding a nutty flavor and a slightly denser texture to the pie filling.
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eggs – Substitute with flax eggs: Flax eggs can serve as a vegan alternative, providing binding properties to the pie filling while maintaining a similar texture.
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pure vanilla extract – Substitute with maple extract: Maple extract can offer a rich, sweet flavor with hints of caramel, enhancing the overall taste of the pie.
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pâte brisée pie shells – Substitute with graham cracker crust: A graham cracker crust can be used as a delicious alternative, providing a sweet, crunchy base for the pie.
Presentation Ideas for Caramelized Apple-Pecan Pie
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Elevate the pie with a decorative lattice crust: Create a stunning lattice crust on top of the pie to showcase your attention to detail and precision in your presentation.
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Garnish with caramelized apple slices: Thinly slice caramelized apples and arrange them in an elegant pattern on top of the pie to add a touch of sophistication and visual appeal.
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Dust with powdered sugar: Lightly dust the pie with powdered sugar just before serving to add a delicate and refined finishing touch to the presentation.
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Accompany with a quenelle of whipped cream: Present a quenelle of whipped cream alongside the pie to add a touch of elegance and balance the flavors with a creamy element.
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Use a fine pastry brush to add a glaze: Brush a thin layer of glaze over the pie to give it a glossy finish, adding a professional touch to the overall presentation.
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Serve on a bed of spun sugar: Create a delicate nest of spun sugar to serve as a stunning base for the pie, adding a touch of artistry and sophistication to the presentation.
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Incorporate edible flowers as a garnish: Use delicate, edible flowers to add a pop of color and a touch of refinement to the presentation of the pie.
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Present on a polished silver platter: Serve the pie on a polished silver platter to elevate the presentation and showcase the dessert as a luxurious and indulgent treat.
Essential Tools for Making This Pie Recipe
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Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking and roasting food by providing dry heat.
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Rimmed baking sheet: A flat, rectangular metal pan with raised edges, used for baking and roasting.
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Nonstick skillet: A frying pan with a nonstick coating that prevents food from sticking to the surface.
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Large bowl: A deep, wide container used for mixing and combining ingredients.
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Wire rack: A metal rack with a grid pattern, used for cooling baked goods and allowing air circulation.
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Whisk: A kitchen utensil used for blending, beating, and whipping ingredients.
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Pie shells: Pre-made or homemade pastry dough used as a base for pies.
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Foil: Thin, pliable sheet of metal, typically aluminum, used for covering and wrapping food during cooking.
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Measuring cups and spoons: Utensils used for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking.
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Spatula: A flat, flexible kitchen tool used for lifting, flipping, and spreading food.
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Pastry brush: A cooking utensil used for spreading butter, oil, or glazes onto food.
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Pie dish: A round, shallow dish with sloping sides, used for baking pies.
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Mixing spoon: A long-handled spoon used for mixing and stirring ingredients.
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Rolling pin: A cylindrical kitchen tool used for flattening and shaping dough.
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Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing food.
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Mixer: An electric kitchen appliance used for mixing, beating, and whipping ingredients.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Caramelized Apple-Pecan Pie with Calvados
- Once the pies have cooled completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent them from drying out or absorbing any unwanted flavors.
- If you plan to consume the pies within a few days, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply place the wrapped pies on a shelf in your fridge.
- For longer storage, you can freeze the caramelized apple-pecan pies for up to 2 months. Here's how:
- Wrap the cooled pies tightly in plastic wrap, making sure there are no air pockets.
- Cover the wrapped pies with a layer of aluminum foil for extra protection against freezer burn.
- Label the pies with the date and contents, so you can easily keep track of when they were frozen.
- Place the wrapped pies in the freezer, making sure they are stored flat to maintain their shape.
- When you're ready to enjoy a frozen pie, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing process helps to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
- Once thawed, you can reheat the pie in a preheated oven at 325°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with foil.
- If you prefer, you can also reheat individual slices of pie in the microwave for a quick and easy treat. Simply place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it in 30-second intervals until warmed to your liking.
How to Reheat Leftover Caramelized Apple-Pecan Pie
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To reheat leftover caramelized apple-pecan pie, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature will ensure that the pie warms up evenly without burning the crust or drying out the filling.
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Place the pie on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This will catch any drips and make cleanup easier. If you prefer a crispier crust, you can also place the pie directly on the oven rack.
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Cover the pie loosely with aluminum foil. This will prevent the crust from browning too quickly and the pecans from burning. It will also help to keep the moisture in, preventing the filling from drying out.
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Bake the pie for 15-20 minutes, or until it is heated through. The exact time will depend on the size of your pie and how cold it was when you started reheating it. You can check the temperature of the filling with a knife or skewer – it should be warm all the way through.
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If you want to add a little extra flavor and moisture to your pie, you can brush the top with a mixture of melted butter and a splash of Calvados before reheating. This will give the pie a beautiful shine and a boost of apple brandy flavor.
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Once the pie is heated through, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to set up a bit, making it easier to slice and serve.
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If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat individual slices of pie in the microwave. Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 30-45 seconds, or until it is warm to your liking. Be careful not to overheat it, as this can make the crust soggy and the filling too hot to eat.
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No matter how you reheat your caramelized apple-pecan pie, don't forget to top it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The cool, creamy contrast is the perfect complement to the warm, gooey filling and the buttery, flaky crust.
Interesting Trivia About Caramelized Apple-Pecan Pie with Calvados
The caramelized apple-pecan pie with calvados recipe is a delightful combination of sweet and nutty flavors. The caramelized apples add a rich and indulgent taste, while the pecans provide a satisfying crunch. The addition of calvados brings a subtle hint of apple brandy, enhancing the overall flavor profile. This decadent dessert is perfect for special occasions or holiday gatherings, and it's sure to impress your guests with its delicious blend of ingredients.
Is Making This Pie at Home Cost-Effective?
This caramelized apple-pecan pie with calvados recipe may not be the most cost-effective for a household due to the use of pecans and calvados, which can be pricier ingredients. However, the rich flavors and impressive presentation make it a worthy indulgence for special occasions. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people would be around $30-$40, depending on the availability and pricing of the ingredients. Overall Verdict: 8. The delightful combination of caramelized apples, pecans, and calvados creates a decadent dessert worth the investment for those special gatherings.
Is This Dessert Healthy or Unhealthy?
This caramelized apple-pecan pie recipe, while undeniably delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main concerns are:
- High sugar content from the added sugar, brown sugar, and corn syrup
- Significant amount of butter, which is high in saturated fat
- Pecans, although nutritious, are high in calories and fat
- The pie crust (pâte brisée) is typically made with butter and refined flour
However, there are some redeeming qualities, such as the use of apples, which provide fiber and nutrients, and the pecans, which offer healthy fats, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:
- Reduce the amount of added sugar and corn syrup, or replace them with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup
- Use a combination of whole wheat and all-purpose flour for the pie crust to increase fiber content
- Decrease the amount of butter in the filling and crust, or replace some of it with healthier alternatives like coconut oil or Greek yogurt
- Incorporate more apples or other fruits to increase the nutrient density and fiber content of the pie
- Serve smaller portions and pair with a dollop of Greek yogurt instead of whipped cream for a protein boost
By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious dessert that still satisfies your sweet tooth. Remember, moderation is key, and it's perfectly fine to indulge in a slice of this delectable pie occasionally as part of a well-rounded diet.
Editor's Opinion on This Caramelized Apple-Pecan Pie Recipe
The caramelized apple-pecan pie with Calvados recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The caramelized apples add a sweet and tangy element, while the toasted pecans provide a satisfying crunch. The addition of Calvados brings a subtle warmth and depth to the dish. The custard filling is rich and velvety, perfectly complementing the other components. Overall, this pie is a wonderful balance of sweet and nutty flavors, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.
Why trust this Caramelized Apple-Pecan Pie with Calvados Recipe:
This caramelized apple-pecan pie with calvados recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, creating a symphony of taste in every bite. The combination of pecans and apples brings a rich nuttiness and natural sweetness, while the touch of calvados infuses a subtle, sophisticated note. The meticulous steps and attention to detail in the instructions ensure a perfect outcome, reflecting the expertise and passion of the chef. Trust in the quality of the ingredients and the precision of the process to indulge in a memorable dessert experience.
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