Apple pie with flaky crust
Apple Pie with Shortcrust Pastry
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20-30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8
History and Overview
Apple pie is a classic dessert loved by generations. This simple yet delicious recipe combines the sweet and tart flavor of apples with the flaky texture of the pastry, creating a perfect combination for any occasion. Whether it’s a holiday meal, a gathering with friends, or simply a Sunday afternoon, apple pie always manages to bring a smile to the faces of those who taste it.
Ingredients
For the pastry:
- 250g butter (or margarine if you prefer a dairy-free option)
- 400g flour
- 2 eggs
- 100g sugar
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- a pinch of salt
- 1 packet baking powder
For the filling:
- 2 kg apples (choose sweet and tart apples for a balanced flavor)
- sugar to taste
- cinnamon to taste
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
Preparing the Pastry
1. Start by preparing the pastry. In a large bowl, add the softened butter (if it’s cold, let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes) and sugar. Use a spatula or mixer to cream the butter with the sugar until you achieve a creamy and fluffy mixture. A secret here is not to rush – this step is essential to incorporate the air needed for a light texture.
2. Add the two eggs and continue to mix well, ensuring they are fully incorporated. It’s important that the eggs are at room temperature for better integration into the mixture.
3. In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder and a pinch of salt. Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the butter and egg mixture, mixing until you obtain a smooth dough. Don’t be afraid to use your hands to knead a little – the dough should be slightly sticky, but firm enough to shape.
4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for one hour. This will make it more compact and easier to handle.
Preparing the Filling
5. While the dough is cooling, prepare the filling. Peel the apples and grate them or use a food processor to chop them finely. This step will help the apples soften more quickly during cooking.
6. Place the grated apples in a pot and add sugar to taste. Here, you can adjust the amount of sugar based on the sweetness of the apples – it’s always better to start with a small amount and add more if necessary.
7. Cook the apples over low heat, stirring occasionally, until they soften. This process will intensify the apple flavor and make the filling richer. After a few minutes, add the cinnamon and vanilla sugar, then let them cool slightly before straining in a sieve to remove excess liquid.
Assembling the Pie
8. After the dough has chilled, remove it and divide it into two equal parts. I recommend using a scale to ensure the portions are equal. This will facilitate even baking.
9. Roll out the first piece of dough on a floured surface to about 1 cm thick. Transfer the sheet to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Make sure the dough evenly covers the bottom of the tray.
10. Add the apple filling, making sure to distribute it evenly. If you have followed the previous steps, you should now have a juicy and flavorful filling.
11. Roll out the second piece of dough and cover the filling. You can make a few small cuts in the top dough to allow steam to escape, which will help maintain the pie's texture.
Baking and Serving
12. Preheat the oven to 190°C. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 20-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy. Check occasionally to avoid burning.
13. Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Before serving, sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant appearance and a sweet taste.
Serving Suggestions
This apple pie is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. Additionally, a cup of aromatic tea or a glass of sweet white wine can perfectly complement the culinary experience.
Variations and Useful Tips
- If you want to diversify the filling, you can add chopped nuts or raisins for a crunchy texture.
- Instead of cinnamon, you can experiment with ginger or cardamom for an exotic note.
- Use different types of apples to achieve a unique flavor combination.
Nutritional Benefits
Apples are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Eating apples can help improve digestion and maintain heart health. Additionally, while the flaky pastry is delicious, it should be consumed in moderation, as it has a higher calorie content due to the butter and sugar.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of fruit for the filling?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using pears, peaches, or even cherries, depending on your preferences.
2. How can I make the pastry healthier?
You can replace the butter with coconut oil or margarine, and sugar with honey or natural sweeteners, but keep in mind that the texture may vary.
3. What can I do if the filling is too wet?
Make sure the apples are well drained before adding them to the pie. You can add a little flour or cornstarch to the filling to absorb excess liquid.
With this simple yet delicious apple pie recipe with shortcrust pastry, you’re on your way to impressing family and friends every time. Each slice will bring warm memories and moments of joy, and you will become a true pie master! Enjoy!
Ingredients: For the dough: 250g butter or margarine 400g flour 2 eggs 100g sugar 1 packet vanilla sugar a pinch of salt 1 packet baking powder For the filling: 2 kg grated apples sugar to taste cinnamon to taste 1 packet vanilla sugar
