Apple and quince pie

Apple and Quince Pie – a traditional delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Who doesn't love the warm and comforting aroma of an apple pie? Our apple and quince pie recipe combines the sweetness of apples with the subtle flavor of quince, resulting in a dessert that evokes pleasant childhood memories. This pie is perfect for cool autumn evenings and can be served warm or cold. Before we get started, let's discover some useful information about our ingredients and a few tricks that will make the preparation a true pleasure.

Necessary ingredients:

For the dough:
- 1 cup of borscht (250 ml) – this ingredient adds a slightly sour taste and helps to tenderize the dough.
- 1/2 cup of oil (100 ml) – use sunflower or olive oil for a more pronounced flavor.
- 2 egg yolks – for a rich and smooth texture.
- 100 g sugar – add more if you prefer a sweeter dough.
- Grated zest of one lemon – for a note of freshness.
- 1 packet of baking powder – essential for achieving a fluffy pie.
- 300 g flour – make sure it is well sifted.

For the filling:
- 1 1/2 kg of apples (preferably tart apples) and one large quince – both fruits will provide a delicious combination of flavors.
- 200 g sugar – adjust the amount according to the sweetness of the apples.
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon powder – a spice that pairs perfectly with apples and quinces.

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the filling: Start by washing the apples and quince well. Peel them and cut them into large pieces. Grate them into a large bowl and, using a bag or a sieve, squeeze the juice from them. This step will prevent the filling from being too wet. After obtaining the juice, add sugar and cinnamon powder over the fruits, mixing well. Let the filling sit aside to hydrate a bit.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, mix the egg yolks with the sugar and a pinch of salt. Add the oil and borscht, stirring continuously. Incorporate the sifted flour along with the baking powder. Knead the dough until it becomes smooth and elastic. If it is too sticky, add a little flour, but avoid drying it out. Divide the dough into two parts – one larger, which will be the base, and one smaller for the top.

3. Assembling the pie: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Grease a baking dish with oil or butter and line it with breadcrumbs to prevent sticking. Roll out the larger dough and place it in the dish. Add the apple and quince filling, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Sprinkle the remaining cinnamon on top for an extra flavor boost. Roll out the second dough and place it over the filling, sealing the edges to keep the fruit juices inside.

4. Baking the pie: Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until it becomes golden and crispy. To check if it's ready, you can do the toothpick test: insert it in the middle, and if it comes out clean, the pie is perfectly baked.

5. Finishing: Once the pie is out of the oven, use the juice left from the apples and quinces to lightly syrup it. This step will add an extra layer of flavor and moisture. Let the pie cool slightly before dusting it with sugar or serving it.

Serving suggestions: This pie is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it with a dollop of sour cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a perfect contrast of textures and flavors. It also pairs wonderfully with a fragrant tea or a sweet white wine.

Useful tips:
- If you want a healthier version, you can replace some of the sugar with honey or natural sweeteners.
- Experiment with adding nuts or raisins to the filling for a crunchy note.
- The pie can be frozen before baking. Wrap it well in cling film and store it in the freezer. When you want to bake it, let it thaw at room temperature and then bake.

Nutritional information: One serving of pie contains approximately 280 calories, making it a pleasant choice for a snack or dessert. Apples and quinces are rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, and antioxidants, which makes this pie not only delicious but also beneficial for your health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples and quinces?
- Of course! You can experiment with peaches, plums, or even berries.
2. How can I tell when the pie is done?
- The golden color of the crust and the toothpick test are the best indicators.
3. Can I prepare the dough in advance?
- Absolutely! The dough can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Regardless of the occasion, the apple and quince pie is a fantastic choice that will bring joy and warmth to every bite. Don't forget to share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy it together! Cooking is an art, and every recipe is a story worth telling. So, let's get to work and create delicious memories!

 Ingredients: Dough: 1 cup of bors (250ml) 1/2 cup of oil (100ml) 2 egg yolks 100g sugar grated zest of one lemon 1 packet of baking powder 300g flour Filling: 1 1/2 kg of apples and one large quince 200g sugar 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon powder