Name: Caramel Apple Pie with Cookie Crust and Dulce de Leche Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 Tbsp. unsalted butter; 2.5 lbs gala apples, peeled, cored, and diced; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1 cup brown sugar; 1/2 Tbsp apple pie spice; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 6 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup white granulated sugar; 1 large egg, room temperature; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup + 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour; 1/2 Tbsp apple pie spice; 1/2 tsp baking soda; Pinch of salt; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup white granulated sugar; 1 tsp apple pie spice; 3/4 cup all-purpose flour; 4 1/2 Tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 6-7 oz Dulce de leche, divided (about 3 oz for drizzling inside crust, remainder for topping)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 15 reviews

If there is one autumn treat that embodies comfort and indulgence, it has to be this Caramel Apple Pie with Cookie Crust and Dulce de Leche Recipe. Imagine tender, cinnamon-kissed apples nestled inside a buttery, soft cookie crust, then crowned with a golden streusel topping and generous drizzles of rich, creamy dulce de leche. Each bite bursts with warm spices, buttery sweetness, and that perfect balance of gooey and crisp textures. This pie is like a warm hug in dessert form, perfect for cozy gatherings or simply treating yourself to something extraordinary.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A shiny silver metal bowl sits on a white marbled surface, filled halfway with a pale yellow, soft, and thick dough mixture that looks slightly grainy. A white spatula with a red handle is inside the bowl on the right side, partially covered in the dough, as if it was just used to mix the dough. The inside walls of the bowl have small patches of dough stuck to them, showing texture and use. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The charm of this pie truly shines through its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s the buttery cookie crust that forms the sturdy base, the fragrant apple pie spice that infuses warm flavors, or the luscious dulce de leche that adds that irresistible caramel layer. Here’s what you’ll need to create this heartwarming dessert.

6 Tbsp. unsalted butter (softened): Essential for that rich, tender cookie crust texture.
1/2 cup brown sugar: Adds deep molasses sweetness to both crust and filling.
1/4 cup white granulated sugar: Balances out sweetness and sharpens flavors.
1 egg (room temperature): Helps bind the cookie crust for a perfect structure.
1 tsp. vanilla extract: Enhances all layers with a warm, inviting aroma.
1 cup + 2 Tbsp all purpose flour: Forms the base for your cookie crust’s tender crumb.
1/2 Tbsp. apple pie spice: Brings the essential cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove magic.
½ tsp. baking soda: Gives a slight lift to the crust’s texture.
Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
3 Tbsp. butter: For sautéing the apples and helping them cook to soft perfection.
2.5 lbs gala apples: The star, providing sweet and tender slices to fill the pie.
1 cup brown sugar (for filling): Sweetens and caramelizes the apples beautifully.
2 tsp vanilla: Infuses the apple filling with depth and warmth.
1/2 Tbsp. apple pie spice (for filling): Creates that signature spiced apple flavor.
1/3 cup flour: Thickens the filling to avoid sogginess.
1/2 cup brown sugar (streusel topping): Adds crunch and sweetness on top.
1/4 cup white granulated sugar (streusel): Balances the topping’s flavor.
1 tsp apple pie spice (streusel): Continuity of spice in every layer.
3/4 cup flour (streusel): Creates that perfect crumbly texture.
4½ Tbsp unsalted butter (melted, streusel): Binds the topping crumbs without creating a paste.
6-7 oz Dulce de leche (divided): The luscious caramel drizzle that elevates the entire pie.

How to Make Caramel Apple Pie with Cookie Crust and Dulce de Leche Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Pie Filling

This filling is where all the magic begins, blending soft, spiced apples with the perfect amount of sweetness. Peel, core, and dice your gala apples first. Then gently melt butter in a pot over medium heat, add the diced apples, and stir to coat them evenly. Sprinkle flour over the apples to naturally thicken the juices as they cook. Next, stir in brown sugar, apple pie spice, and vanilla extract for layers of warm flavor. Cover the pot and let the apples soften, stirring occasionally until tender but not mushy. Set this fragrant filling aside as the base for your incredible pie.

Step 2: Make the Cookie Crust

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees and lightly grease your pie dish. Start by beating softened butter with brown and white sugars until the mixture turns light and fluffy — this gives the crust a delightfully tender crumb. Beat in the egg and vanilla extract for richness. Now add flour, apple pie spice, baking soda, and a pinch of salt, combining everything gently first with a mixer on low then finishing with a spatula to avoid overworking the dough. Press this cookie dough evenly along the bottom and sides of your pie dish, creating a cozy crust cradle for your filling. Bake the crust for 10 minutes, and if it settles on the sides, gently push it back up while warm.

Step 3: Assemble the Pie with Dulce de Leche and Filling

Once your crust is nicely pre-baked, drizzle about half of your dulce de leche over the bottom to create a decadent caramel layer. Carefully spread the prepared apple filling on top, pressing it down gently to pack the warm, spiced goodness inside the cookie crust base.

Step 4: Create and Add the Streusel Topping

In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar, white sugar, apple pie spice, and flour for the streusel topping. Pour in melted butter and carefully fold it in with a fork, aiming for large crumbs rather than a paste — this crumbly topping will provide the perfect contrasting texture once baked. Sprinkle the streusel generously over the apple filling, covering every inch.

Step 5: Bake and Finish

Bake your pie for 25 to 30 minutes until the streusel is golden and the filling is bubbly. Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle the remaining dulce de leche over the top — this finishing touch adds a glossy, caramel decadence that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Allow the pie to rest for about 30 minutes before slicing and serving to let all those flavors meld beautifully.

How to Serve Caramel Apple Pie with Cookie Crust and Dulce de Leche Recipe

A single slice of crumb-topped pie sits on a white plate with a white marbled surface beneath. The pie has three visible layers: the bottom layer is a soft, light brown filling, the middle layer is a bit thicker and more textured in a slightly darker brown shade, and the top layer is a crumbly golden-brown crust sprinkled with oats or nuts. Drizzled over the top are smooth, light caramel-colored lines adding a shiny contrast. A woman's hand is holding a fork that is pressing into the front edge of the pie slice, lifting small crumbs and bits from the crust. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A lightly dusting of powdered sugar looks pretty and adds a hint of sweetness, but for a more indulgent spin, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. Toasted pecans or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt on top of the dulce de leche drizzle can really elevate the flavor and textural experience.

Side Dishes

This pie pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of spiced chai tea or a robust French roast coffee. For those who love savory-sweet balance, a sharp cheddar cheese slice alongside the pie is a classic, delightful combo that contrasts beautifully with the sweet caramel and spiced apples.

Creative Ways to Present

For festive occasions, serve this pie on a rustic wooden board surrounded by fresh apple slices and cinnamon sticks to highlight the autumn vibe. You could even serve individual portions in mini tart pans for a charming bite-sized dessert or drizzle extra dulce de leche artistically on dessert plates for a restaurant-worthy presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After the pie has cooled completely, cover it loosely with foil or plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for 3 to 4 days. The flavors often develop even more with a day in the fridge, making leftovers a treat on their own.

Freezing

This Caramel Apple Pie with Cookie Crust and Dulce de Leche Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

To bring back that freshly baked warmth, reheat slices of the pie in the oven at 325 degrees for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid microwaving too long or the cookie crust can become soggy. A quick oven reheat revives the crisp topping and melts the dulce de leche to luscious perfection again.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples in this recipe?

Absolutely! While gala apples provide a nice balance of sweetness and firmness, you can use Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for a juicier texture. Just opt for apples that hold their shape well when cooked to keep the pie filling from becoming too mushy.

What if I don’t have dulce de leche on hand?

You can substitute with caramel sauce, but dulce de leche offers a richer, creamier flavor that complements the apple filling beautifully. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own by gently simmering sweetened condensed milk until golden and thick.

Is it necessary to pre-bake the cookie crust?

Pre-baking the crust helps it set and prevents it from becoming soggy once the filling is added. It also begins the browning process, leading to a beautifully golden, tender crust that holds everything perfectly.

Can I make the pie completely ahead of time?

Yes! The apple filling keeps for a few days in the fridge, and the dough can be prepared ahead as well. Assemble the pie a few hours before baking or the night before, then bake fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture and flavor.

How do I achieve the perfect streusel topping texture?

When mixing your streusel, fold in the melted butter gently and avoid over-mixing so the crumbs remain large and coarse rather than clumping together. This creates the ideal crunchy, crumbly topping that contrasts wonderfully with the soft filling.

Final Thoughts

This Caramel Apple Pie with Cookie Crust and Dulce de Leche Recipe is truly a treasure to have in your baking repertoire. It combines classic apple pie warmth with the playful twist of cookie crust and luscious caramel drizzle. Whether you’re baking for a crowd or a quiet moment of indulgence, this pie promises smiles, satisfaction, and an irresistible slice of comfort. Give it a try and discover a new favorite that’s sure to become a beloved tradition.