Apple pie

Apple pie – a classic delicacy that evokes childhood memories, sunny days, and the enticing aroma of baked apples. This simple recipe will fill your home with the warm scents of cinnamon and the natural sweetness of apples. Moreover, it is a versatile recipe, ideal for both special occasions and everyday days. So, get ready to enjoy a delicious apple pie that will impress any guest!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 250 grams of flour
- 100 grams of butter or lard (at room temperature)
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon of cold water
- 1 tablespoon of raw sugar
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 1 kilogram of apples (preferably sweet-sour varieties)
- 250 grams of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon
- Optional: 1 tablespoon of semolina (to absorb the apple juice)

Step by step for a perfect apple pie

Step 1: Preparing the dough

1. In a medium bowl, crack the egg and add a pinch of salt, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 2 tablespoons of cinnamon. Mix well with a whisk or fork until you achieve a creamy consistency.
2. Add the butter and mix until it is fully incorporated. The butter adds flavor and a tender texture to the dough.
3. Incorporate 1 tablespoon of cold water and then add the flour. Knead the dough with your hands until it becomes smooth and elastic. Do not over-knead, as this will make the pie less flaky.
4. If you prefer, all ingredients can be added to a food processor and mixed until a uniform dough forms. This is a great time-saving trick!
5. Form a ball from the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap, and let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a perfect dough that will roll out easily.

Step 2: Preparing the filling

1. Meanwhile, wash and peel the apples. You can grate them or cut them into cubes, depending on your preference. If you want to keep the texture of the apples, cutting them into cubes is recommended.
2. Squeeze the juice they release, then add the sugar and 1 tablespoon of cinnamon. If the apples are too wet, you can add 1 tablespoon of semolina to absorb the excess juice.
3. Another option is to sauté the apples in a pot over medium heat until the juice evaporates. Let them cool before adding them to the dough.

Step 3: Assembling the pie

1. Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius.
2. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into two equal parts. This will form the base and the top of the pie.
3. Roll out one part of the dough on a floured surface until you obtain a sheet about 5 mm thick. Place the sheet in the pie dish, greased with butter or lined with baking paper.
4. Add the apple filling over the dough, distributing it evenly.
5. Roll out the other half of the dough and cut it into strips to create a lattice pattern over the filling. This detail not only looks spectacular but also allows steam to escape during baking.
6. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Step 4: Serving

1. Once the pie is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, cut it into slices and serve it warm or at room temperature.
2. For an extra touch of flavor, you can pair it with vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream. The combination of flavors and textures will make each slice a true delight!

Practical tips

- Choosing apples: Opt for apples that have a balanced taste between sweet and sour. Granny Smith, Jonagold, or Gala apples are excellent for this recipe.
- Vegan alternative: If you want to make a vegan version, replace the butter with margarine and the egg with 1/4 cup of applesauce.
- Filling variations: You can add chopped nuts, raisins, or even a tablespoon of rum to the apple filling for an even more interesting flavor.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: Each serving of apple pie contains approximately 250 calories. Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. How can I store the pie?
The apple pie can be stored at room temperature, covered, for 2-3 days, or in the refrigerator for a week. Reheat a slice in the oven to restore its freshness.

2. Can I use other fruits?
Yes! This recipe can be adapted to include peaches, pears, or berries, depending on your preferences.

3. Is this a beginner-friendly recipe?
Absolutely! Apple pie is an easy recipe to make, perfect for those starting to explore the art of cooking.

Conclusion

Apple pie is not just a dessert, but also a way to bring joy and warmth into your home. This simple and delicious recipe will turn you into a true dessert master. Experiment with different ingredients and variations to make each apple pie a unique experience! Enjoy every slice and share it with your loved ones, because cooking is, above all, about creating beautiful memories. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 250 grams of flour; 100 grams of butter or lard; 1 egg; 1 tablespoon of water; 1 tablespoon of brown sugar; a pinch of salt; 2 tablespoons of ground cinnamon; 1 kilogram of apples; 250 grams of sugar