Dutch apple pie

Dutch Apple Pie - A Tender and Aromatic Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes Baking time: 55-60 minutes Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes Number of servings: 8

Introduction

Welcome to the fascinating world of pâtisserie! Today, I invite you to discover the recipe for a Dutch apple pie, a dessert that combines the delicate texture of the pastry with the tart sweetness of well-baked apples. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate simple and natural flavors, offering an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether you want to impress guests at a festive meal or simply indulge yourself, this pie is the ideal choice.

The origins of the Dutch pie are shrouded in mystery, but it is known to be a popular dessert in many cultures, often served on special occasions. Its fragile pastry and apple filling are a combination that has won the hearts of many generations. Let's begin our culinary journey!

Ingredients

*For the pastry:* - 250 g flour - 75 g sugar - 150 g cold butter (like Rama) - a pinch of salt - 2 tablespoons very cold water

*For the filling:* - 750 g apples (Romanian, preferably tart) - 25 g sugar - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon - 150 g raisins (optional, soaked and well-drained) - 4 tablespoons apricot jam - butter for greasing the pan

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the pastry

1. In a large bowl, combine the flour with the sugar and a pinch of salt. 2. Add the cold butter, cut into small cubes or grated, and mix with your fingers until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. This process is essential for achieving a tender pastry. Do not let the butter melt; otherwise, the pastry will become sticky. If you feel it getting too warm, place it in the fridge for 5-10 minutes. 3. Add the 2 tablespoons of very cold water and mix gently until the dough comes together. Knead it lightly, without overworking it, until it becomes smooth but soft. 4. Wrap the dough in cling film and refrigerate for an hour. This will help firm up the butter and make the dough easier to handle.

Step 2: Preparing the apple filling

1. Wash the apples well, peel them, and cut them into small cubes. 2. In a bowl, mix the apple cubes with lemon juice and cinnamon. The lemon juice will prevent the apples from oxidizing, keeping them looking fresh, while the cinnamon will add a warm and comforting aroma. 3. If desired, add the soaked raisins, which will bring an extra touch of sweetness. Make sure to squeeze them well before adding them to the apple mixture.

Step 3: Assembling the pie

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (high heat). 2. Grease a 25 cm round pan with butter to prevent sticking. 3. Once the dough has chilled, divide it into two parts: 3/4 for the base of the pie and 1/4 for the strips on top. 4. Sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and roll out the 3/4 dough into a thin sheet, about 0.5 mm thick. Ensure that the dough covers the edge of the pan, leaving an overhang of about 3 cm. 5. Using a fork, prick the base of the dough to allow steam to escape during baking. This step is essential to avoid the dough deforming. 6. Pour the apple mixture into the pan, spreading it evenly. From the remaining dough, cut thin strips to place on top of the apples, forming a decorative lattice.

Step 4: Baking the pie

1. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 20 minutes at high heat, then reduce the temperature to 180°C and continue baking for 35-40 minutes. The pie is ready when it turns golden and beautifully browned. 2. When the pie is done, warm the apricot jam and, using a brush, glaze the surface of the pie with the warm jam, giving it a shiny and appetizing appearance.

Step 5: Serving

Allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing it. It is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it plain or with a dollop of cream or vanilla ice cream for a perfect contrast of textures and flavors.

Practical tips for a perfect result

- Use Romanian apples, known for their intense flavor and pleasant acidity, which perfectly contrasts with the sweetness of the pastry. - If you want an even richer taste, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the apple mixture. - The dough should be handled as little as possible to prevent gluten development, which can make the pie denser.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of Dutch apple pie has approximately 290 calories. Apples are an excellent source of fiber and antioxidants, helping to maintain digestive health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Butter adds a good amount of healthy fats, essential for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of apples? Yes, you can use any type of apples you prefer, but make sure they are flavorful and slightly tart to balance the sweetness of the pastry.

2. How can I store the pie? The pie can be kept at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it.

3. What drinks pair well with this pie? A cup of flavored tea or a sweet white wine would be ideal accompaniments to highlight the pie's flavors.

Possible variations

- Experiment with different types of jam for a personalized touch. Raspberry or berry jam can add a pleasant acidity. - Try replacing some of the flour with ground almonds for a richer flavor and interesting texture.

I hope you will try this Dutch apple pie recipe and that it will become a favorite in your family! Cooking is an art, and every recipe is an opportunity to create delicious memories. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: Dough: 250 g flour, 75 g sugar, 150 g butter (Rama), salt, 2 tablespoons very cold water. Filling: 750 g apples (Romanian), 25 g sugar, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, 4 tablespoons apricot jam, butter for greasing the tray.

 Tags:  apple pie