During the festive season, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of warm spices and sweet treats wafting through the kitchen. One classic Swedish dessert that perfectly captures the essence of Christmas is Karamellpaj, also known as Caramel Pie. This indulgent yet simple dessert combines a buttery crust with a luscious caramel filling that will surely become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply craving a cozy treat, this recipe is sure to delight your taste buds and spread holiday cheer.
**Karamellpaj Caramel Pie**
**Ingredients:**
**For the crust:**
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
**For the caramel filling:**
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– A pinch of salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the crust:**
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter.
– Using a pastry cutter or your fingers, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
– Gradually add a few tablespoons of cold water while mixing until the dough comes together.
– Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. **Preheat the oven:**
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch pie dish and set aside.
3. **Roll out the crust:**
– On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle large enough to fit your pie dish.
– Gently press the dough into the bottom and sides of the dish, trimming any excess dough hanging over the edges.
4. **Bake the crust:**
– Blind bake the crust by lining it with parchment paper and filling it with pie weights or dry beans.
– Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until lightly golden. Remove from the oven and let it cool.
5. **Make the caramel filling:**
– In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and water. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
– Allow the mixture to boil without stirring until it turns a deep amber color, swirling the pan occasionally for even caramelization.
– Carefully and slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring constantly. Be cautious, as the mixture will bubble vigorously.
– Remove the caramel from the heat and stir in the butter and salt until smooth and well combined.
6. **Assemble the pie:**
– Pour the warm caramel filling into the baked crust. Smooth the top with a spatula for an even layer.
– Allow the pie to cool at room temperature for about 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours to set.
7. **Serve and enjoy:**
– Once the caramel pie has set, slice it into wedges and serve at room temperature.
– For an extra decadent touch, you can top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of sea salt.
Indulge in the rich flavors and delightful textures of this Swedish Christmas baking tradition with Karamellpaj. This Caramel Pie is a wonderful addition to your holiday dessert spread, bringing warmth, sweetness, and joy to your festive celebrations. Whether you enjoy it with a cup of coffee by the fireplace or share it with loved ones around the table, this dessert is sure to create lasting memories and add a touch of Scandinavian charm to your culinary repertoire.
