Apple pie

Apple pie is more than just a simple dessert; it’s a sweet memory, a symbol of joy and family warmth, lovingly shared at Sunday dinners. This quick and delicious dish, featuring a tender and juicy crust, has become my grandchildren's favorite, and once you try it, you’ll understand why!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients needed

For the dough:
- 200 ml milk (ideally at room temperature to activate the yeast)
- 2 eggs (make sure they are fresh)
- 150 g sugar (you can also use brown sugar for a more caramelized flavor)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla powdered sugar (for a sweet, aromatic scent)
- 100 ml oil (sunflower oil is ideal, but you can experiment with olive oil for a different taste)
- 1 packet of dry yeast (or 25 g fresh yeast)
- 550-600 g flour (white flour, type 000, is the most suitable)
- A pinch of salt (the salt will enhance the flavors)

For the filling:
- 1 kg apples (choose sweet and tart varieties, such as Granny Smith or Golden Delicious)
- 4-5 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust according to the sweetness of the apples)
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon (for a warm, comforting flavor)
- 3 tablespoons semolina (this will help absorb the juices from the apples)

Preparation technique

1. Preparing the apples: Wash the apples well, then dry them with a towel. Use a large grater to grate them. Place them in a colander to drain excess juice, ensuring that the pie doesn’t become too soggy. This step is crucial to achieve a perfect crust without it getting mushy.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, add the flour, yeast, salt, sugar, and vanilla powdered sugar. Mix the dry ingredients to combine them. In another container, beat the eggs with the warmed milk and oil. Pour the liquid mixture over the dry ingredients and knead until you obtain an elastic dough that easily comes off your hands. Use additional flour if necessary, but don’t overdo it to avoid a tough dough.

3. Dividing the dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts. One part will be the base, and the other will cover the apples.

4. Preparing the baking tray: Take a 24x40 cm baking tray and line it with parchment paper to prevent the pie from sticking.

5. Forming the pie: On a floured surface, roll out one piece of dough with a rolling pin until you get a sheet the size of the tray. Place the dough sheet in the tray. Sprinkle the semolina evenly over the dough in the tray. This will absorb the apple juices and keep the crust crispy.

6. Adding the apples: Squeeze the grated apples well to remove excess liquid. Spread them evenly over the semolina, then sprinkle the granulated sugar and cinnamon on top. This mixture will caramelize the apples and enhance their flavor during baking.

7. Covering with dough: Roll out the second piece of dough and carefully place it over the apples, ensuring they are completely covered. You can use a fork to create a few holes in the dough so that steam can escape during baking.

8. Baking the pie: Preheat the oven to 170 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and bake the pie for 25-30 minutes or until it turns golden and beautifully browned.

9. Cooling and serving: Once ready, remove the tray from the oven and let it cool completely. After it has cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant finish. Cut the pie into servings and serve it cold. It’s delicious alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a cup of tea.

Useful tips
- Variations: You can add nuts or raisins to the apple filling for extra texture and flavor. You can also experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or ginger.
- Serving: This pie is perfect for serving at a family meal or a party. It can be paired with caramel sauce or a lemon glaze for a contrasting taste.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other fruits? Yes, this recipe is versatile, and you can substitute apples with pears or peaches, but the baking time may vary.
- How can I store the pie? Keep the pie in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh. It can be consumed for up to 3 days.

Nutritional benefits
Apple pie is not only delicious but also nutritious. Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Eating apples can support digestive health and contribute to a balanced diet. Additionally, this dessert offers a moderate amount of carbohydrates, making it a healthier option compared to other richer cakes high in fats and sugars.

In conclusion, apple pie is a quick and simple dessert, yet full of flavor and nostalgia. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, this recipe is sure to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Experimenting with ingredients and techniques will make each attempt unique, so don’t hesitate to let your creativity run wild in the kitchen. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: Dough: 200 ml milk, 2 eggs, 150 g sugar, 1 tablespoon vanilla powdered sugar, 100 ml oil, 1 packet yeast, 550-600 g flour, a pinch of salt. Filling: 1 kg apples, 4-5 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon cinnamon, 3 tablespoons semolina.