Apple pie

Apple Pie - A Nostalgic Delight

Who doesn’t love the warm aromas of a freshly baked apple pie? This apple pie recipe is a true indulgence, combining the sweetness of apples with the crunchy texture of the crust. It’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, especially for the cool autumn evenings when we want to wrap ourselves in pleasant memories.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients

For the crust:
- 500 g flour
- 250 g margarine (we recommend Unirea margarine for a better texture)
- 1 egg yolk
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- A pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 200 ml sour cream

For the filling:
- 1 kg apples (choose sweet and fragrant varieties, such as Golden or Jonagold)
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons semolina
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 egg white

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Crust
Start by preparing the crust, which will be the base of the pie. In a large bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder, sugar, and salt. Add the diced margarine and, using your fingers, rub the margarine into the flour until you achieve a sandy texture. This technique is essential for ensuring a flaky crust.

Add the egg yolk, vinegar, and sour cream. Gently knead the dough until it becomes homogeneous. Divide it into two equal parts, shape them into balls, and wrap them in plastic wrap. Let them chill in the fridge for 30 minutes. This resting period is crucial for making the dough easy to roll out.

2. Preparing the Filling
Meanwhile, peel the apples and grate them on a coarse grater. Place them in a pot over medium heat, adding the sugar. Cook for 5-10 minutes, stirring frequently, until they soften slightly. This step helps intensify the flavors and reduce the moisture of the apples.

Once the apples are sautéed, add the cinnamon and semolina, mixing well. The semolina will help absorb the juices from the apples, thus preventing the crust from getting soggy. Allow the filling to cool completely. At this point, beat the egg white until frothy and fold it into the cooled apple mixture, giving it an airy texture.

3. Assembling the Pie
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Line a 24x34 cm baking dish with parchment paper or grease it with a little butter.

Take a piece of dough from the fridge and roll it out on a floured surface until you get a thin sheet. Transfer the sheet to the baking dish, making sure to cover the edges well. Pour the apple filling over the dough in the dish, spreading it evenly.

Roll out the second sheet of dough and place it over the filling. Seal the edges of the pie by pressing them lightly with your fingers or a fork. Make a few cuts on the top of the pastry to allow steam to escape during baking.

4. Baking
Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes or until it turns golden. In the last 5 minutes of baking, you can sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a sweet and attractive finish.

Once the pie is ready, let it cool slightly before cutting it into servings. The flavors intensify as it cools, making it even more delicious.

Serving and Suggestions
This apple pie is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. A caramel sauce would also add an extra layer of flavor.

Possible Variations
For a personal touch, you can add chopped nuts or raisins to the apple filling. You can also experiment with different spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, to give the recipe an interesting twist.

Nutritional Benefits
Apples are an excellent source of vitamins, especially vitamin C, and contain antioxidants that help protect the body. Additionally, semolina provides carbohydrates, and margarine, in moderate amounts, supplies essential fats.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, you can use various types of apples, but make sure they are sweet and fragrant.

2. How can I store the pie?
The pie keeps well covered at room temperature for 2-3 days. It can be refrigerated to extend its freshness.

3. Can the pie be frozen?
Absolutely! You can freeze the pie before baking, ensuring it is well wrapped in plastic wrap.

4. What drinks pair well with the pie?
A cup of fruit tea or a semi-dry white wine pairs perfectly with the pie's aroma.

In conclusion, this apple pie recipe is not only simple and quick but also full of flavor and nostalgia. Try it at home and share it with your loved ones, and with each slice savored, you will create unforgettable memories!

 Ingredients: Dough: 500 g flour, 250 g Unirea margarine, 1 egg yolk, 6 tbsp sugar, 1 tbsp vinegar, a pinch of salt, 1 tbsp baking powder, 200 ml sour cream. Filling: 1 kg apples, 4 tbsp sugar, 2 tbsp semolina, 1 tsp cinnamon, 1 egg white.

 Tags:  pie apples sour cream or