Apple pie

Apple Pie – A Nostalgic Delight

Who can resist a warm apple pie, with fluffy dough and juicy filling? This apple pie recipe will not only fill your home with an inviting aroma but also evoke dear memories from childhood, when every meal was an adventure in itself. The apple pie represents a perfect combination of the sweetness of apples and the warm aroma of cinnamon, making it an ideal dessert for family meals as well as special occasions.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1-2 hours
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Number of servings: 12-14 servings
Calories (per serving): approximately 200 kcal

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 500 g flour (sifted)
- 1 packet (7 g) dry yeast
- 1 egg
- 1 pinch of salt
- 300 ml warm milk
- 3-4 tablespoons sugar
- 3-4 tablespoons oil

For the filling:
- 2 kg apples (preferably tart apples)
- 4-5 tablespoons sugar (or to taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons cinnamon (to preference)

Preparing the apple pie:

1. Sifting the flour: Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl. This is an important step that will help aerate the flour and achieve a fluffier dough. Add the dry yeast over the flour and mix gently.

2. Adding wet ingredients: In another container, dissolve the sugar in the warm milk. Make sure the milk is warm, not hot, as excessive heat could destroy the yeast. Add the egg and salt, mixing well until homogeneous.

3. Kneading the dough: Pour the milk mixture over the flour and yeast. Begin to knead the dough until it becomes homogeneous and elastic. This step is essential for gluten development, which will give the dough that fluffy texture. Once the dough is kneaded, let it rise in a warm place, covered with a towel, for 1-2 hours or until it doubles in volume.

4. Preparing the filling: While the dough is rising, prepare the apples. Peel them, remove the seeds, and cut them into cubes or thin slices. In a pan, add the apples along with the sugar and cinnamon. Sauté them over medium heat for 5-10 minutes, stirring constantly, until the apples become slightly soft. Turn off the heat and let them cool, then drain them to remove excess liquid.

5. Assembling the pie: Once the dough has risen, knead it again, gradually adding the oil. Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll out the first part into a thin sheet and place it in a greased and floured baking tray. Add the apple filling, then roll out the other sheet of dough and place it on top. Brush the surface with an egg yolk for a golden and appetizing crust.

6. Baking the pie: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Bake the pie for 40-50 minutes or until it becomes golden and crispy. Let it cool slightly before cutting.

Serving and suggestions: The apple pie is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it plain, but enhance it with a vanilla sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. It is a versatile dessert, perfect to be enjoyed with a warm tea or a glass of sweet wine.

Tips and variations:
- You can experiment with different types of apples for various flavors.
- Add nuts or raisins to the filling for added texture.
- Instead of cinnamon, you can use nutmeg or even ginger for an exotic touch.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned apples?: Yes, but make sure to drain them well to avoid a too-wet pie.
- How can I make the pie less sweet?: You can reduce the amount of sugar in the filling and choose tarter apples.
- Can the pie be frozen?: Yes, the pie can be frozen before baking. Make sure to wrap it well in foil and use it within 1-2 months.

The apple pie recipe is more than just a dessert; it is a tradition full of memories, a way to bring joy to loved ones. With this simple and quick recipe, you will succeed in bringing a touch of nostalgia in every bite. So, get ready to enjoy a delicious apple pie that will make every meal special!