Tender apple pie

Caramelized Apple Pie: An Evening Delight

I present to you a recipe that combines tradition with authentic flavors: caramelized apple pie. This recipe is perfect for a family evening or to impress friends. It is simple yet full of flavor, and the aroma of apples and cinnamon will make you feel at home. Let’s get to work!

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes (30 minutes active and 1 hour baking)
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients

For the filling:
- 750 g peeled and cored apples
- 150 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon

For the dough:
- 400 g flour
- 100 g sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar with cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
- 2 eggs
- 200 g butter (preferably at room temperature)

Pan size:
- 20 x 30 cm

Optional:
- Powdered sugar for decoration

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Filling:
Start by peeling and coring the apples. Then, grate them. Place the grated apples in a pot, add the sugar, and put the pot over medium heat. Sauté the apples, stirring occasionally, until the juice reduces and you get a thicker mixture. This step is essential to avoid a filling that is too wet, which could make the dough soft. When the apples are ready, take the pot off the heat and add the cinnamon. Let the filling cool.

2. Preparing the Dough:
In a large bowl, add all the ingredients for the dough in the written order: flour, sugar, vanilla sugar with cinnamon, salt, eggs, and butter. Mix using a mixer or by hand until you obtain a smooth, non-sticky dough. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour. Then, wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 20-30 minutes. This step helps to firm up the butter and will make the dough easier to roll out.

3. Preheating the Oven:
While the dough cools, preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). A well-heated oven is essential for achieving a flaky crust.

4. Assembling the Pie:
Once the dough has cooled, divide it into two equal parts. Roll out the first half into a thin sheet, then place it in the greased pan, making sure to cover the edges well. Spread the cooled apple filling over the dough, smoothing it out.

To create a decorative effect, roll out the second sheet of dough on an oiled work surface. You can easily roll it onto a glass to place it over the filling. I recommend using a fork to make a few holes in the top dough; this will allow steam to escape during baking and prevent the dough from puffing up.

5. Baking:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and let it bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the pie is golden and crispy. The aroma that will spread throughout the house will make you eagerly await to enjoy it!

6. Serving:
After the pie has cooled, you can dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant look. Serve it warm or at room temperature, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce. These combinations will elevate the tasting experience to a new level!

Practical Tips
- Choosing Apples: Choose slightly tart apples, such as Granny Smith or Jonagold, to contrast with the sweetness of the sugar. They will caramelize beautifully and provide a balanced flavor.
- Vegan Option: If you want a vegan version, you can replace the eggs with 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1/4 cup of soy yogurt and the butter with margarine or coconut oil.
- Frozen Pie: This pie can be easily frozen! You can prepare it in advance, bake it, and then freeze it. When you want to serve it, let it thaw at room temperature and bake it for a few minutes to regain its crispness.

Nutritional Benefits
Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamin C, contributing to digestive health and the immune system. Additionally, cinnamon has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This pie, while delicious, also offers nutrients that are beneficial for health.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other fruits? Yes! This recipe is versatile; you can replace the apples with pears, peaches, or cherries.
- How do I store the pie? The pie keeps well at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for a week. If you have leftovers, I recommend freezing them.

Conclusion
This caramelized apple pie is not just a delicious dessert but also a perfect way to enjoy moments spent with family. Making it will turn an ordinary evening into a special occasion. Don’t forget to enjoy every step of cooking and leave your personal touch on the recipe. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: Filling: 750 g peeled and cored apples; 150 g sugar; one teaspoon cinnamon. Dough: 400 g flour; 100 g sugar; one packet of vanilla sugar with cinnamon; a pinch of salt; two eggs; 200 g butter. Tray size: 20 x 30 cm. Optional: powdered sugar for decoration.

 Tags:  tender apple pie