This Salted Caramel Pie is a sweet treat with a rich, creamy filling and a crispy crust. The combination of smooth caramel and a touch of salt is simply yummy!
You’ll love how easy it is to make—it’s perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself. I can’t resist a slice, especially when it’s chilled and topped with whipped cream! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Graham Cracker Pie Crust: A pre-made crust saves time, but you can easily make your own using crushed graham crackers, sugar, and melted butter. You can experiment with other cookie crusts, like Oreos or digestive biscuits for a fun twist.
Granulated Sugar: Regular white sugar is essential for the caramel. If you want a deeper flavor, consider using brown sugar, but be aware it can affect the texture and color of your caramel.
Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter lets you control the salt level in your pie. If you only have salted butter, reduce the added sea salt accordingly. I personally love the richness unsalted butter adds!
Heavy Cream: This ingredient adds a smooth, creamy texture. If you need a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, but the pie may not be as rich and creamy.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: This gives the pie its creaminess and sweetness. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, coconut condensed milk can work as a substitute, adding a bit of tropical flavor.
How Do I Make the Perfect Caramel?
Making caramel can be tricky, but with a little attention, you can achieve great results! Be patient and remember to stir consistently when adding the butter and cream. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat the granulated sugar over medium heat, swirling the pan occasionally to ensure even melting.
- Once it reaches a golden amber color, quickly stir in the butter. It will bubble, so stand back and stir until fully melted.
- Carefully pour in the heavy cream, continuing to stir. The mixture may bubble vigorously!
- Add the sea salt, mix well, and allow cooling to a warm temperature before combining it with the filling.
Personal tip: Use a light-colored saucepan. It makes it easier to see the sugar’s color change, helping you avoid burning it. Enjoy your caramel-making!
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, cut into pieces
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (plus more for garnish)
- 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
- 1 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whipped cream (for topping)
- Extra caramel sauce (for drizzling on top)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare, and then you’ll need to chill the pie in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or overnight to let it set. So, you can make it in advance and just wait to enjoy it later!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Caramel:
Start by placing a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the granulated sugar and watch as it melts. Make sure to swirl the pan occasionally to help it melt evenly. Once it turns a lovely golden amber color, carefully toss in the 6 tablespoons of butter and stir until everything is melted together. Be cautious, as the caramel can get hot!
2. Adding Cream and Salt:
Once your butter is mixed in and the caramel is smooth, slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. The mixture might bubble up, so be careful not to touch it! Stir in the 1 teaspoon of sea salt and remove the pan from the heat. Let it cool for a short while so it’s safe to handle.
3. Preparing the Filling:
In a large bowl, bring together softened cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk. Beat them with a mixer or a whisk until the mixture is nice and smooth. Gently add in your cooled caramel (save a little for drizzling later) and the vanilla extract. Continue mixing until everything is fully combined and creamy!
4. Filling the Pie Crust:
Now it’s time to make it look like a pie! Pour your luscious caramel filling into the pre-made graham cracker pie crust. Use a spatula to smooth it out evenly so that every slice will be just perfect.
5. Chilling the Pie:
Cover the pie and pop it in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours, or feel free to let it chill overnight if you want the flavor to deepen. This will help the pie set beautifully!
6. Serving Deliciousness:
When you’re ready to serve, take the pie out from the fridge and top it generously with whipped cream. Drizzle the reserved caramel sauce over it for that extra deliciousness! Don’t forget to sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on top for a fancy touch!
7. Enjoy Your Treat:
Slice up your salted caramel pie and serve it chilled. Enjoy every bit of this sweet and salty treat with family and friends!
Can I Use Light Brown Sugar Instead of Granulated Sugar?
Yes, you can use light brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper flavor in your caramel! Keep in mind that the caramel may be a bit softer due to the added moisture in brown sugar, so watch the cooking time to ensure it reaches the desired consistency.
How Do I Store Leftover Salted Caramel Pie?
Leftover pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. If you need to freeze it, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Absolutely! Simply use a gluten-free graham cracker crust or an alternative crust made from crushed nuts and dates. This will maintain the delicious flavor of the pie while making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream. Keep in mind that using half-and-half may result in a less creamy texture, while coconut cream will add a subtle coconut flavor that pairs well with the caramel.
