American apple pie

Apple Pie – A Classic Delight

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

Apple pie is a classic dessert, cherished by generations for its delicious blend of sweet and tart apples enveloped in a flaky crust. This recipe not only brings together the aromatic flavors of apples and spices but also warm and nostalgic memories of family gatherings. Each bite will transport you to a world of comfort and joy.

Ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 300 g of flour 000
- 150 g of cold butter, diced
- 50 ml of cold water
- A pinch of salt

*For the filling:*
- 1 kg of red apples (preferably sweet varieties like Gala or Fuji)
- Juice and grated zest of 1 lemon
- 100 g of sugar
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder
- A pinch of nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 15 ml of milk (for shiny crust)
- 1 egg (for glazing)

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the dough:
The first step to achieving a perfect pie is to prepare the dough. In a large bowl, pour the flour and add a pinch of salt. Then, incorporate the cold diced butter. Use your fingers to mix the ingredients until you achieve a floury and crumbly texture, similar to wet sand. This is essential for a flaky dough.

2. Adding the water:
Gradually add the cold water while continuing to mix. It is important for the dough to become homogeneous and elastic, so don’t hesitate to knead it on a work surface. Form a ball from the dough and wrap it in plastic wrap. Let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This step will help the dough become easier to handle and tastier.

3. Preparing the apples:
While the dough cools, it’s time to take care of the apples. Wash them well and peel them. Cut each apple in half, then into quarters, and remove the core. Slice them thinly. Be careful not to slice them too thin, as they may break during mixing.

4. Mixing the filling:
Place the apple slices in a large bowl and add the lemon zest and juice, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sifted flour. Mix everything carefully using your hands so as not to crush the apples. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap to prevent the apples from oxidizing.

5. Preparing the baking pan:
Choose a baking pan with a diameter of 25 cm. Grease it with a little butter and sprinkle a thin layer of flour on the bottom and sides of the pan to prevent the pie from sticking.

6. Rolling out the dough:
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into two parts: 2/3 of the dough will be used for the base of the pie, and 1/3 for the top. On a floured work surface, roll out the larger piece of dough into a round sheet about 0.5 cm thick. Place it in the pan, covering the sides completely.

7. Filling the pie:
Carefully pour the apple filling into the pan, distributing the slices evenly. You can create a small mound in the center and add a few cubes of butter for extra flavor.

8. Covering the pie:
Roll out the remaining dough and cover the apple filling. Press the edges of the two layers of dough together using a fork to seal them. This detail is important for keeping the apple juices inside.

9. Preparing for baking:
Using a pastry brush, brush the surface of the pie with milk to achieve a golden and shiny crust. Prick the dough in several places with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.

10. Baking the pie:
Preheat the oven to 200°C. Place the pan in the oven and bake the pie for 20 minutes. Then, reduce the temperature to 180°C for another 20 minutes, and finally to 170°C for the last 20 minutes, or until the crust is golden and appetizing.

11. Glazing and cooling:
After the pie is baked, turn off the oven and brush the surface with the beaten egg. Sprinkle a little powdered sugar for a sweet and shiny finish. Let the pie cool in the turned-off oven to allow the flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions:
This apple pie is delicious both warm and cold. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sweet cream. You can also add a bit of grated nutmeg for extra flavor. A cup of fragrant tea or a glass of apple cider pairs perfectly with this dessert.

Nutritional Information:
One serving of pie contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. Apples are rich in fiber and vitamins, while cinnamon has antioxidant properties, making this pie not just a tasty dessert but also a healthier choice.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of apples?
Of course! Granny Smith apples provide a tart note, while Gala apples are sweeter. You can combine different varieties for a complex flavor.

- How can I keep the pie longer?
The pie can be kept at room temperature for 2-3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

- Can I add other ingredients to the filling?
Certainly! You can add raisins, nuts, or even caramel for an even more intense flavor.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking! The apple pie will surely become a favorite in your home, bringing joy and flavor in every bite. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: For the dough: 300 g of flour, 150 g of butter, 50 ml of cold water, a pinch of salt. For the filling: 1 kg of red apples, juice and zest of 1 lemon, 100 g of sugar, a pinch of salt, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder, a pinch of nutmeg, 1 tablespoon of flour, 15 ml of milk, 1 egg.