Fried apples
American apple pie is a classic recipe that brings a touch of nostalgia and warmth in every bite. This dessert perfectly combines the sweetness of apples with the enticing aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg, enveloped in a tender and delicious crust. It is the ideal dessert for a gathering with family or friends, but also for indulging in a quiet evening at home. Moreover, it is a quick and simple dessert to prepare, even for those who do not have much experience in the kitchen.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45-55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10
Ingredients:
For the crust:
- 350 g flour
- 200 g unsalted melted butter
- 30 g sugar
- 60-120 ml water or milk
- 1 egg
For the filling:
- 6-8 large apples (ideally Granny Smith or other tart apples)
- 100 g sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 50 g butter (cut into cubes)
For the caramel:
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
Preparation:
1. Preparing the crust: In a large bowl, combine the flour with the sugar. Add the melted butter and mix well until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Incorporate the egg and gradually add water or milk until the dough comes together. Shape it into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a tender crust.
2. Preparing the apples: Meanwhile, peel the apples and slice them thinly. Place them in a bowl and add the sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well to combine the flavors. This mixture will add a delicious flavor to the apples and prevent them from oxidizing.
3. Assembling the pie: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Divide the dough into two equal parts. On a floured surface, roll out the first part of the dough with a rolling pin until it reaches the size of the baking dish (preferably round and medium). Grease the dish with butter or oil and sprinkle with a little flour. Place the first part of the dough on the bottom of the dish.
4. Adding the filling: Place the apple slices in the dish, distributing them evenly. Add the butter cubes over the apples, then pour the prepared caramel. This will add a touch of sweetness and a wonderful texture at the end.
5. Finishing the pie: Roll out the second part of the dough and place it over the apple filling. Use a fork to poke small holes in the surface of the pie, allowing steam to escape during baking. Cover the pie with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
6. Baking: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. In the last 15 minutes, remove the aluminum foil to allow a golden and crispy crust to form.
7. Serving: Once the pie is baked, let it cool slightly before slicing. You can serve it warm, alongside a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream, for a delicious contrast between hot and cold.
Useful tips:
- You can add other spices like ginger or cloves to customize the flavor of your pie.
- If you prefer a less sweet version, reduce the amount of sugar in the filling or use tarter apples.
- Make sure the apples are well cooked, but not so much that they turn to mush; they should be soft yet slightly crunchy.
Nutritional benefits:
Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins C and K, and contain antioxidants. Eating apples can help improve digestive health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Calories:
A serving of apple pie contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the size of the serving.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned apples?
It is recommended to use fresh apples for better texture and taste. Canned apples may be too wet and can affect the crust.
2. Can I make the dough a few days in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a few days in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. Make sure it is well wrapped to prevent drying out.
3. Can this pie be frozen?
Yes, the pie can be frozen. Make sure it is completely cooled, then wrap it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer.
American apple pie is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. Every bite will transport you on the wings of memories and make you feel at home. So, get ready to indulge in this delicious recipe and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!
Ingredients: For the dough: 350 g flour; 200 g unsalted melted butter; 30 g sugar; 60 - 120 ml water/milk; 1 egg. For the filling: 6-8 large apples; 100 g sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; cinnamon, nutmeg. 50 g butter; Caramel: 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup water.
