Apple pie

Apple pie – a classic, delicious recipe full of memories!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Who doesn't love the aroma of a freshly baked apple pie? This recipe will not only bring smiles to your face, but it will also fill the whole house with inviting scents, evoking unforgettable childhood memories. Apple pie is a versatile dessert, perfect for any occasion, from a family meal to a gathering with friends.

Ingredients needed:

*For the dough:*
- 230 g cold butter (preferably unsalted for a more balanced taste)
- 350 g flour (use type 000 flour for a finer dough)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (brown sugar can add a deeper flavor)
- 1 teaspoon salt (salt helps enhance the flavor)
- 1 vanilla extract (or seeds from a vanilla pod for an extra touch of authenticity)
- 60 ml cold water (you can use ice water for an even flakier dough)

*For the filling:*
- 8 apples (choose sweet and tart apples, like Granny Smith or Golden Delicious, for a delicious contrast)
- 2 packets vanilla sugar (or you can use 2 tablespoons of sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla)
- 4 tablespoons sugar (adjust the amount based on the sweetness of the apples)
- 2 tablespoons semolina (helps absorb the apple juices and keeps the filling firm)

*For serving:*
- 200 ml liquid cream (you can whip it at home or use store-bought cream, but make sure it is of good quality)

Steps to achieve a perfect pie:

1. Preparing the dough:
Start by mixing the flour, salt, and sugar in a large bowl. Use a mixer with blades or a food processor to combine the dry ingredients. Add the cubed butter at room temperature. Mix until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. This step is essential for achieving a flaky dough.

2. Adding flavors:
Incorporate the vanilla extract and add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until you obtain a smooth dough. It is important not to overmix, as this can make the dough elastic.

3. Chilling the dough:
Wrap the dough in aluminum foil and let it chill in the fridge for about 1 hour. This step will help firm up the butter, making the dough easier to roll out and flakier.

4. Preparing the filling:
Meanwhile, peel the apples and grate them on a small grater. In a bowl, mix the apples with the sugar, vanilla sugar, and semolina. The semolina will help absorb the apple juices, preventing an overly wet filling.

5. Assembling the pie:
Preheat the oven to 200°C. On a floured work surface, roll out 2/3 of the dough until you get a thin sheet. Grease a pie dish with butter and sprinkle with flour to prevent sticking. Place the dough sheet in the dish, trimming excess dough from the edges. Prick the bottom of the pie with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming.

6. Adding the filling:
Evenly distribute the apple mixture over the dough, ensuring the apples are well spread. Roll out the remaining 1/3 of the dough and cover the filling with it. Press the edges firmly to seal the pie and prick the top with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.

7. Baking:
Bake the pie for 30-40 minutes or until golden and crispy. The color should be even, and the aroma wafting from the oven will make it hard to wait!

8. Serving:
Let the pie cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm, alongside whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a contrast of temperatures and textures. It might be a wonderful idea to drizzle caramel sauce on top for an extra flavor boost!

Helpful tip: If you want to add a touch of originality, you can sprinkle a little cinnamon over the apples before adding them to the pie. This will enhance the aroma and add a warm, comforting note.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other fruits?
Of course! You can replace the apples with pears, peaches, or even berries. Each variation will bring a unique taste and aroma.

2. How can I keep the pie longer?
The pie keeps well at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Just make sure it is well covered!

3. What drinks pair well with apple pie?
A cup of black tea or a cold lemonade can be excellent accompaniments. If you prefer alcoholic beverages, a semi-dry white wine or apple cider would be perfect options.

Nutritional benefits:
Apple pie can be a good source of fiber, thanks to the apples, and can also provide essential vitamins, such as vitamin C. Although it is a dessert, when consumed in moderation, it can be a better choice than many other processed sweets.

Conclusion:
Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to put on your apron and get cooking! Apple pie is not just a dessert, but an experience that brings joy and warmth to any home. Whether you enjoy it alone or share it with loved ones, every bite will be a celebration of flavor. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: For the dough 230 g cold butter 350 g flour 1 tablespoon sugar 1 teaspoon salt 1 vanilla essence 60 ml cold water For the filling 8 apples 2 sachets vanilla sugar 4 tablespoons sugar 2 tablespoons semolina Whipped cream 200 ml liquid cream