As the crisp autumn air begins to weave its way into our lives, I can’t help but feel a surge of excitement to embrace seasonal baking. One of my absolute favorite recipes to make is a salted caramel apple galette—a delightfully rustic dessert that captures the essence of fall. The moment I take a bite, I’m enveloped by the warm, tender apples mingling with the rich, buttery crust, all elevated by a luscious drizzle of homemade salted caramel.
This galette is perfect for those leisurely afternoons spent apple picking, or as a stunning centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table. It’s simple yet impressive, a true crowd-pleaser that invites everyone to gather ’round and indulge in its heavenly sweetness. Plus, its versatility allows for endless flavor combinations, making it a go-to for any occasion. So let’s dive into this delightful recipe and bring a little autumn magic to your kitchen!
Why is salted caramel apple galette irresistible?
Decadent Flavor: The perfect blend of sweet, tart apples with the rich, buttery notes of caramel creates a truly unforgettable taste experience.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly yet oh-so-rewarding.
Versatile Base: Customize with your favorite apples or spices, making it a unique creation every time.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a festive gathering, this galette consistently impresses guests, sparking joy and conversation.
Seasonal Sensation: Embrace fall with its warm flavors, making it the ultimate dessert for seasonal celebrations like Thanksgiving.
Salted Caramel Apple Galette Ingredients
For the Caramel Sauce
- Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and is also used to make the caramel sauce; brown sugar can deepen the flavor.
- Salted Butter – Adds richness and flavor to the caramel; unsalted butter can work with a pinch of salt added.
- Heavy Cream – Gives creaminess to the caramel; milk can substitute for a lighter option, but may change the texture.
- Flaky Sea Salt – Enhances the flavor of the caramel sauce; replace with kosher salt if needed.
For the Pie Crust
- All-Purpose Flour – Base for the pie crust providing necessary structure; gluten-free flour can be a substitute.
- Salt – Balances sweetness in the crust; omit for low-sodium options.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds subtle sweetness to the crust; can be reduced for a less sweet flavor.
- Cold Salted Butter – Creates a flaky and tender crust; use cold unsalted butter with extra salt if preferred.
- Ice-Cold Water – Hydrates the dough; cold milk can replace if necessary.
- Sour Cream – Contributes to crust tenderness; Greek yogurt serves as a suitable alternative.
For the Apple Filling
- Medium Apples (Honeycrisp and Gala recommended) – Provides the main filling; feel free to mix sweet and tart varieties.
- Lemon Juice – Brightens the apple flavors and prevents browning; vinegar can be a quick substitute.
- Brown Sugar – Sweetens and adds moisture to the filling; white sugar can work as a replacement.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances overall flavor; try using vanilla bean for a more intense taste.
- Cinnamon – Adds warm flavor to the apple filling; nutmeg or allspice can be alternatives.
- Nutmeg – Complements cinnamon’s warmth; can be omitted or replaced with a pinch of allspice.
- Ground Cloves – Adds a warm spice note; omit if desired or use a small amount of allspice.
- Salt – Balances the sweetness in the apple filling; no direct substitute needed.
For Finishing Touches
- Large Egg (for egg wash) – Gives a golden sheen to the crust; substitute with milk or cream for a vegan option.
- Raw or Turbinado Sugar – Garnishes the crust with a crunchy texture; can be skipped for less sweetness.
- Flaky Sea Salt (for serving) – Enhances the flavor of the final dish; any coarse salt alternative will do.
How to Make Salted Caramel Apple Galette
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Prepare the Salted Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, cook granulated sugar, stirring gently until melted and golden brown. Remove from heat and add salted butter and heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before using.
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Make the Pie Crust: In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, salt, and granulated sugar. Cut in cold salted butter using a pastry cutter or fork until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice-cold water and sour cream until dough comes together. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour.
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Prepare the Apple Filling: In a separate bowl, toss medium apple slices with lemon juice, brown sugar, flour, vanilla extract, and spices until well-coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to soften.
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Assemble the Galette: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rough circle about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the apple filling into the center, leaving a 2-inch border. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling.
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Apply Egg Wash: Beat the large egg and brush it over the exposed dough edges. Sprinkle raw or turbinado sugar over the crust and finish with a few flakes of flaky sea salt.
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Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 38-45 minutes until the galette is golden brown and the apples are tender. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
Optional: Drizzle extra salted caramel over individual slices before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These salted caramel apple galettes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to ease their holiday baking stress! You can prepare the caramel sauce and pie crust up to 3 days in advance; simply store them tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. To maintain freshness and quality, make sure the crust is well-chilled and the caramel sauce is kept in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, just toss the apple filling together and assemble the galette. Brush the edges with egg wash before baking for that golden, flaky finish. In just a short time, you’ll have a stunning dessert ready to impress your family and guests!
How to Store and Freeze Salted Caramel Apple Galette
- Room Temperature: Allow the galette to cool completely, then store at room temperature for up to 1 day, covered loosely with a cloth to maintain texture.
- Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in a warm oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.
- Freezer: Wrap the cooled galette tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: For the best results, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15-20 minutes, adding a drizzle of salted caramel just before serving to enhance the flavors.
Expert Tips for Salted Caramel Apple Galette
- Cold Ingredients: Make sure your butter and water are very cold. This is key to achieving that flaky texture in your galette crust.
- Avoid Tough Dough: Be gentle when mixing and rolling out your dough. Overworking it can lead to toughness instead of tender flakiness.
- Pre-bake Apples: If your apples release too much juice during baking, consider pre-cooking them lightly before assembling to keep the galette crisp.
- Serving Temperature: Allow the galette to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps the filling set, preventing messy slices.
- Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days to maintain freshness, ideal for enjoying your salted caramel apple galette later!
What to Serve with Salted Caramel Apple Galette?
Indulging in the warmth of a salted caramel apple galette opens up delightful possibilities for complementary dishes that elevate your dessert experience.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy sweetness pairs perfectly with the warm galette, creating a heavenly contrast that melts in your mouth.
- Spiced Maple Syrup: Drizzling this on top adds a rich, festive sweetness that enhances both the apple flavors and the salted caramel.
- Toasted Pecans: Their crunchy texture and nutty flavor provide a delightful contrast to the softness of the galette, adding depth to every bite.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of fresh whipped cream beautifully balances the richness of the caramel and compliments the spiced apples.
- Hot Apple Cider: Cozy up with a warm mug; the spiced notes and warmth of cider create a comforting autumn atmosphere, perfect for enjoying with the galette.
- Caramel Drizzle: Consider an extra drizzle of homemade salted caramel over the galette slices for those who want to amplify that rich, sweet profile even more.
- Cheddar Cheese: A slice of sharp cheddar adds a savory contrast to the sweet flavors, enhancing the apples’ natural tartness for an adult twist.
- Earl Grey Tea: The fragrant notes of this tea bring an elegant touch to your dessert table and echo the warmth of the spices in the galette.
- Chocolate Sauce: A light drizzle can bring an unexpected depth, enhancing the overall dessert experience with a richer layer of flavor.
Salted Caramel Variations
Discover new delights as you personalize this galette beyond the basics, inviting flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds!
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Different Apples: Use a mix of sweet and tart apples for a unique flavor profile or choose varieties like Granny Smith for added zing.
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Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans into the apple filling for an extra crunch and depth of flavor that complements the caramel beautifully.
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Spice It Up: Sprinkle in some cardamom or ginger along with the cinnamon for a warming, aromatic twist that adds an unexpected kick.
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Berry Galette: Swap in mixed berries for a fresh, fruity version. Raspberries or blueberries work wonderfully alongside the apples for an exciting twist!
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Vegan Version: Substitute the butter and heavy cream with coconut oil and full-fat coconut milk, respectively, for a creamy and decadent vegan treat.
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Sour Cream Substitute: Use plain yogurt or even a dairy-free yogurt alternative to maintain the tenderness of the crust without altering the flavor significantly.
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Add Citrus Zest: Grate in some orange or lemon zest into the apple filling for a bright, sunny note that lifts the flavors and balances the sweetness.
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Caramel Drizzle Alternative: Experiment with chocolate ganache instead of caramel drizzle for a rich, chocolatey finish that will surely impress chocolate lovers!
Salted Caramel Apple Galette Recipe FAQs
What apples are best for a salted caramel apple galette?
Absolutely! I recommend using a mix of sweet and tart apples like Honeycrisp and Gala. This combination gives a lovely balance of flavors. You can also experiment with other varieties such as Granny Smith for tartness or Fuji for added sweetness.
How should I store leftover salted caramel apple galette?
Very good question! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing. To enjoy it warm again, simply reheat slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
Can I freeze salted caramel apple galette?
Yes, you can! After the galette has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as directed.
What should I do if my galette crust becomes tough?
The key to a tender galette crust is to ensure your butter and water are extremely cold and to avoid overworking the dough. If the dough has been worked too much or is too warm, incorporate a bit more ice-cold water and try to handle it gently. Always chill the dough for at least an hour before rolling it out.
Can I modify the recipe for dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! For a gluten-free version, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour. For a vegan adaptation, you can use coconut oil instead of butter and milk or plant-based cream for the salted caramel. Just be mindful of using a non-dairy substitute in the egg wash as well, like almond milk.
How do I know when the apples in my galette are done baking?
The apples should be tender and juicy, and the crust should have a lovely golden-brown color. If you can pierce the apples easily with a fork, they’re done! If you’re worried about browning, check them around the 35-minute mark. Enjoy the process—every galette is a labor of love!
Salted Caramel Apple Galette: A Cozy Fall Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
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Prepare the Salted Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, cook granulated sugar, stirring gently until melted and golden brown. Remove from heat and add salted butter and heavy cream, whisking until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before using.
-
Make the Pie Crust: In a large bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, salt, and granulated sugar. Cut in cold salted butter using a pastry cutter or fork until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in ice-cold water and sour cream until dough comes together. Wrap in plastic wrap and chill for at least 1 hour.
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Prepare the Apple Filling: In a separate bowl, toss medium apple slices with lemon juice, brown sugar, flour, vanilla extract, and spices until well-coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to soften.
-
Assemble the Galette: On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a rough circle about 12 inches in diameter. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Spoon the apple filling into the center, leaving a 2-inch border. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling.
-
Apply Egg Wash: Beat the large egg and brush it over the exposed dough edges. Sprinkle raw or turbinado sugar over the crust and finish with a few flakes of flaky sea salt.
-
Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 38-45 minutes until the galette is golden brown and the apples are tender. Let it cool for about 10 minutes before slicing.
- Optional: Drizzle extra salted caramel over individual slices before serving.