Are you ready to embark on a culinary adventure that combines the best of both worlds – pizza and pie? Say hello to Slice Layers of Pie Crust Pizza, a creative twist on the classic pizza that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more. With layers of flaky pie crust, sweet applesauce, and gooey caramel sauce, this pizza is a delightful fusion of savory and sweet flavors. Join us as we explore the art of creating this unique and delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 package ready-made pie crusts, such as Pillsbury
- 2 tablespoons flour, for dusting
- 1 cup applesauce
- 3 tablespoons caramel sauce, plus more for drizzling
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the pie crust package. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll Out the Pie Crust:
- Lightly dust a clean surface with flour. Roll out the pie crust into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Layer the Ingredients:
- Spread the applesauce evenly over the surface of the pie crust, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Drizzle the caramel sauce over the applesauce, creating a swirl pattern.
- Roll and Slice:
- Starting from one end, carefully roll up the pie crust into a tight log.
- Use a sharp knife to slice the log into 1-inch thick rounds.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet:
- Place the sliced rounds on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart slightly.
- Prepare Egg Wash:
- In a small bowl, beat the egg with a tablespoon of water to create an egg wash.
- Brush and Sprinkle:
- Brush the tops of the pie crust slices with the egg wash.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the white sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sprinkle the mixture generously over the slices.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pie crust is golden brown and crispy.
- Drizzle and Serve:
- Remove the pie crust slices from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top of the slices before serving.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Add Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts over the applesauce layer for added texture and flavor.
- Go Savory: Experiment with savory fillings such as marinara sauce, cheese, and pepperoni for a savory twist on this sweet treat.
- Personalize Your Drizzle: Customize the drizzle by using chocolate sauce, raspberry sauce, or even a cream cheese glaze instead of caramel sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use homemade pie crust instead of ready-made? A: Yes, you can use homemade pie crust if you prefer. Roll out the dough into a rectangle and proceed with the filling and slicing steps as directed.
Q: Can I use store-bought applesauce or should I make it from scratch? A: Either option works fine for this recipe. You can use store-bought applesauce for convenience or make your own from scratch if you prefer.
Q: Can I make this pizza ahead of time and reheat it later? A: While this pizza is best enjoyed fresh, you can assemble it ahead of time and bake it later. Simply cover the unbaked slices tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Q: Can I freeze the unbaked pie crust slices? A: Yes, you can freeze the unbaked slices on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container for up to 1 month. Bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I use a different type of sauce for the filling? A: Absolutely! Feel free to get creative with the filling by using different types of sauce such as chocolate spread, fruit preserves, or even savory sauces for a unique flavor combination.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how you can adapt this recipe:
- Keto Version: Replace the ready-made pie crust with a homemade keto-friendly crust made from almond flour, coconut flour, and eggs. Use a sugar-free applesauce sweetened with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia. Omit the white sugar from the topping and use a sugar-free caramel sauce for drizzling.
- Low-Carb Version: Choose a low-carb pie crust or make your own using almond flour or coconut flour. Use a low-carb applesauce and caramel sauce for the filling and drizzling. Keep an eye on the carb content of the toppings and adjust quantities accordingly.
Indulge your senses with the delightful combination of flavors in Slice Layers of Pie Crust Pizza. Whether enjoyed as a sweet treat or a creative dessert, this unique dish is sure to impress your family and friends. With its flaky crust, sweet filling, and irresistible drizzle, it’s a culinary masterpiece that’s perfect for any occasion. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to experience the deliciousness of Slice Layers of Pie Crust Pizza!