Dulce de Leche Apple Pie

By:

jeremy

Published:

February 25, 2026

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Dulce de Leche Apple Pie combines the warmth of classic apple pie with a delightful twist that will have everyone asking for seconds. Imagine buttery, flaky crust encasing tender apples, laced with the rich, creamy sweetness of dulce de leche. This pie doesn’t just taste good; it brings back memories of cozy evenings and family gatherings. Whether you’re baking for a holiday feast or a simple weeknight dessert, this pie is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easier to make than you might think, bringing those heartfelt flavors from your kitchen to the table. Ready to create a balanced masterpiece that’s both comforting and inspiring? Let’s jump into the delicious details of making a Dulce de Leche Apple Pie that every friend and family member will rave about!

Why This Recipe Works

Balancing Flavors

Combining the sweetness of dulce de leche with the tartness of apples creates a complex flavor profile that tantalizes the taste buds. Each bite balances the creamy and sweet elements, making your palate sing.

Perfect Crust

The use of lard results in an incredibly flaky and tender crust. This elevated texture brings a delightful crunch that perfectly complements the gooey filling inside. With just the right amount of buttery taste, it makes the pie experience truly special.

Ease of Preparation

This recipe simplifies the pie-making process while ensuring delicious results, making it accessible even for beginner bakers. With clear steps and straightforward ingredients, you’ll have a beautiful dessert on your table without the fuss!

Why You’ll Love This Dulce de Leche Apple Pie

Delightfully Unique

This twist on the classic apple pie sets it apart and makes it a memorable dessert for gatherings or cozy nights in. It’s a familiar favorite enhanced with new flavors that surprise and delight.

Comforting and Satisfying

The warm, gooey filling paired with the flaky crust provides the perfect indulgence for any occasion. There’s something soothing about a slice of pie that evokes feelings of home and nostalgia.

Perfect for Sharing

Ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or as a delightful surprise for friends, sharing this pie creates joyful moments. Everyone loves a pie that shines brightly on any dessert table!

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust:

5 1/2 cups (770g) all-purpose flour
2 tsp salt
1 lb (454g) lard
1 tbsp vinegar
1 egg
Ice water

For the Apple Filling:

6 firm and large apples, peeled and cored
2/3 cup (130g) white sugar
1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 cup (125ml) dulce de leche
1/4 cup (30g) flour
1 egg for brushing, beaten

Preparing the Perfect Pie Crust

Mixing the Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt thoroughly. Next, cut in the lard using a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs. This stage is crucial for ensuring that your crust will be as flaky and tender as possible.

Creating the Dough

In a measuring cup, combine vinegar and egg. Then, add ice water until you reach 1 cup total. Gradually stir this liquid into the flour-lard mixture until the dough just comes together. Remember, it’s best not to overmix for the flakiest result.

Chilling the Dough

To give your crust a better texture, divide the dough into three equal parts. Press into disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This step is essential, as chilling the dough helps create that flaky goodness.

Making the Delicious Apple Filling

Slicing the Apples

Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Once done, place them in a large mixing bowl. Slicing them uniformly helps ensure even cooking, leading to the best texture when baked.

Adding Flavor

Mix together the sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, flour, and dulce de leche. Make sure the apples are evenly coated for the best flavor experience. This combination brings the buttery caramel notes to life with every bite.

Assembling and Baking the Pie

Preparing the Oven

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot when you’re ready to bake. Roll out two-thirds of the chilled pastry on a floured surface into a circle that fits your 9-inch pie plate.

Filling vs. Base

Transfer the crust to the pie plate, allowing the edges to hang over. Fill it with the apple mixture, making sure it’s packed nicely for an abundance of flavors in each slice.

Crafting the Top Crust

Roll out the remaining pastry and use a cookie cutter to cut out shapes. For a festive touch, consider autumn-themed shapes, or simply create classic rounds. These cutouts add visual charm to your pie.

Brushing and Arranging

Brush the edges of the pie crust with an egg wash. As you place the cutouts on top, overlap them slightly and ensure they’re securely stuck with more egg wash. This step not only adds beauty but also helps in getting a lovely golden finish.

Baking to Perfection

Place your pie on a lower oven rack with a baking sheet underneath to catch any drips. Bake for 20 minutes at 400°F, then reduce the temperature to 375°F (190°C). Continue baking for 40-50 minutes until the pie is golden brown and fragrant, signaling that it’s ready to delight your senses!

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the ultimate comforting dessert experience.
A dollop of whipped cream can add an extra layer of richness that’s simply heavenly.

Tips for Success

Ensure that your ingredients, especially the lard, are cold for the best crust texture. Cold ingredients help maintain those beautiful flaky layers.
Avoid overfilling the pie. Bumping over can create a mess, and it’s best to err on the side of caution for a clean bake.

Variations

For a delicious twist on the filling, consider substituting pears for apples. This change will bring a whole new flavor profile that’s equally delightful.
Adding nuts like walnuts or pecans can introduce an exciting texture and flavor layer to your pie.

Storage Tips

Leftover pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s covered to maintain freshness.
You can reheat slices in the oven or microwave until warmed through, so each bite tastes just as good as when it was fresh out of the oven.

Pairing Ideas

Complement your pie with warm chai or spiced apple cider for a cozy beverage pairing that enhances the experience.
A light salad can balance the sweetness of the pie when served as part of a larger meal, creating a lovely dinning experience.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-made pie crust?
Absolutely! Pre-made pie crusts are a convenient alternative, and you can follow package instructions for baking.

2. What type of apples work best for apple pie?
Look for firm varieties like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn. They maintain their texture and flavor beautifully.

3. Can I freeze this pie?
Yes, feel free to freeze the assembled, unbaked pie. Just wrap it tightly and bake from frozen, adding extra time if needed.

4. How can I make this pie gluten-free?
Consider substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend, but make sure to adjust liquid components accordingly.

5. Is Dulce de Leche the same as caramel?
Though similar, dulce de leche is made by slowly heating sweetened milk, giving it a creamy taste. Traditional caramel, on the other hand, is made from sugar.

This Dulce de Leche Apple Pie is truly a recipe you’ll cherish, showcasing the perfect mix of flavors and textures. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and bake this delightful treat that will undoubtedly become a favorite for family and friends alike!