This Salted Caramel Pie is a sweet and creamy treat that everyone loves! It features a buttery crust filled with smooth caramel goodness that has just the right touch of salt.
You might want to grab a fork and some friends; sharing is the hard part! 😄 I like to top it with whipped cream for an extra touch of fun. Enjoy every bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Pie Crust: A pre-made crust saves time and gives a nice sweet crunch. If you prefer a homemade option, crush some digestive biscuits or Oreos mixed with melted butter for a unique flavor.
Granulated Sugar: Offers the sweetness needed for the caramel. If you’re looking to cut sugar, consider using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute that can caramelize, like monk fruit sweetener. Just adjust amounts as per the package instructions.
Unsalted Butter: This is key for a rich flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using coconut oil or vegan butter in equal amounts for the same creamy texture.
Heavy Cream: Gives the pie its velvety smooth consistency. If you’re dairy-free, substitute with coconut cream for a similar creaminess. Just make sure to chill the can overnight before using.
Sea Salt: The salt balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor. You can also use kosher salt or Himalayan pink salt if that’s what you have on hand. A pinch of flaky salt on top adds a nice touch.
How Do I Ensure My Caramel Sauce Isn’t Grainy?
Creating a smooth caramel is all about technique and patience. When you combine sugar and butter, make sure not to rush the melting process. Here’s how:
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to distribute heat evenly.
- Keep the heat at medium; too high can result in burnt sugar.
- Stir well until the sugar fully dissolves into the butter before adding cream. This helps prevent crystallization.
- When adding heavy cream, do it slowly and carefully to avoid splattering.
Let the caramel bubble gently for a few minutes until it thickens, stirring occasionally. If it looks too thick while cooling, whisking in a splash more cream can help regain its smoothness.
How to Make Salted Caramel Pie
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pie:
- 1 pre-made graham cracker pie crust
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups sweetened condensed milk
For the Topping:
- Whipped cream, for topping
- Additional caramel sauce, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Salted Caramel Pie takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to bake. After that, you’ll need to cool it for about an hour and chill it in the fridge for at least 3 hours before serving. That means you’ll need a total of about 4 hours and 15 minutes before you can enjoy your pie!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your pie cooks evenly. While the oven heats up, get your pre-made graham cracker pie crust ready and set it aside.
2. Make the Caramel Mixture:
In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, add in the granulated sugar and stir well until everything is nicely combined. Next, slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. It’s important to keep stirring to avoid lumps! Bring this mixture to a boil and let it cook for about 5 minutes, until it thickens slightly. Once it’s done cooking, remove it from the heat and stir in the sea salt and vanilla extract.
3. Combine with Sweetened Condensed Milk:
In a mixing bowl, add the sweetened condensed milk. Pour the warm caramel mixture into this bowl and gently mix until everything is smooth and blended together. This will be your rich and creamy filling!
4. Fill the Crust and Bake:
Pour the caramel filling into the pre-made graham cracker pie crust. Spread it evenly with a spatula. Now, place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes. You want it to be set and slightly golden on top.
5. Cool and Chill:
Once the pie is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour. After that, pop it in the fridge for at least 3 hours to set completely. This chilling time helps intensify the flavors!
6. Serve with Whipped Cream:
When the pie is chilled and ready to serve, take it out and top it with a generous amount of whipped cream. For the finishing touch, drizzle some extra caramel sauce over the top. Now, it’s ready for you and your guests to enjoy!
Enjoy your delicious Salted Caramel Pie!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pie Crust?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can use a traditional pastry pie crust or even a chocolate cookie pie crust for a different flavor. Just be aware that baking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the pie as it bakes.
How to Store Leftovers
Leftover Salted Caramel Pie can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then placed in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
Can I Make This Pie Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! This pie is perfect for making ahead of time. You can prepare it a day or two in advance—just make sure to refrigerate it after it cools to let the filling set. Top with whipped cream and caramel just before serving for the best presentation.
What If My Caramel Is Too Thick?
If your caramel mixture is too thick after cooking, just add a bit more heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, while stirring over low heat until you reach your desired consistency. This will help ensure a smooth filling when combined with the sweetened condensed milk.
