Apple pie
Dessert is an essential part of any meal, and the apple pie we will prepare today is a recipe that combines tradition with the sweet and fragrant taste of baked apples. This pie is not just a simple dessert, but a true celebration of simple ingredients transformed into a delicacy that delights every time. It is a perfect recipe to celebrate the beginning of spring, dedicated to all cooking enthusiasts and beyond.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 55-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 servings
Ingredients
For the pie:
- 10-12 apples (choose quality apples, preferably varieties that hold up well when baked, such as green or yellow apples)
- 200 g sugar (you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 20 g butter (to add a creamy taste)
- 50 g raisins (optional, but adds a sweet note and interesting texture)
- 50 g sour cherries (you can use canned or jam cherries for extra flavor)
For the dough:
- 4 eggs (at room temperature for better foam)
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 4 tablespoons flour (type 000, for a fine texture)
- 2 packets vanilla sugar (or 1 teaspoon vanilla extract)
- A pinch of ammonia (this will help the dough rise)
Recipe history
Apple pie is a recipe that has crossed generations, reminding us of family moments, local traditions, and the joy of cooking together. Apples, fruits available throughout the year, have been used over time in various sweet dishes, and this pie is a celebration of their natural taste. Whether enjoyed at a festive meal or as a simple dessert during the week, apple pie always brings a smile to faces.
Step by step for a perfect apple pie
1. Preparing the pot:
Start by choosing a pot with a thicker bottom, which will help distribute heat evenly. Sprinkle 200 g of sugar on the bottom of the pot and smooth it out evenly. This will caramelize during baking, giving a delicious crust to the pie.
2. Preparing the apples:
Peel the apples and carefully remove the core, making sure to keep them intact. You can use a special tool to remove the seeds or a thin knife. Fill the core of each apple with raisins and sour cherries, then place them on the bottom of the pot, side by side. Put a small cube of butter between the apples to add a creaminess note.
3. Baking the apples:
Place the pot in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) and let the apples bake for about 30 minutes, until the sugar becomes foamy and the apples soften slightly. This step is crucial, as it will give the pie an intense flavor of caramelized apples.
4. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, beat the egg whites until you get a firm foam. Add the sugar and vanilla sugar, continuing to mix until the mixture becomes glossy. Then add the egg yolks, gently folding them in with a spatula from the bottom up to avoid deflating the incorporated air.
5. Adding dry ingredients:
Sift the flour and ammonia into the egg mixture and gently fold them in. Make sure there are no lumps left to achieve an even dough.
6. Finalizing the pie:
When the apples have cooled, carefully pour the batter over them, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Place the pot back in the oven and bake the pie for 25-30 minutes. Check if it is cooked using the toothpick test; if it comes out clean, the pie is ready.
7. Cooling and serving:
Let the pie cool slightly in the pot, then carefully invert it onto a plate. It is best served warm, but can also be enjoyed at room temperature. If desired, you can add a dollop of whipped cream on top, but I recommend enjoying it plain to savor the intensity of the baked apple flavor, perhaps even sprinkled with a little cinnamon.
Useful tips
- Choosing apples: Choose apples with a firm texture, such as Granny Smith or Golden Delicious, which will hold up well during baking.
- Sugar: If you prefer a more caramelized taste, use brown sugar instead of white sugar.
- Variations: You can add chopped nuts or almonds for extra texture, or experiment with other dried fruits, such as apricots or dates.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use canned apples?
While it is possible, fresh apples offer superior texture and taste.
2. How can I make the pie less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar in the batter or use tarter apples.
3. Is this pie suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Yes, as it does not contain animal-derived ingredients, aside from eggs.
4. How do I store the pie?
The pie can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
5. What drinks pair well with this pie?
An apple tea or a dry white wine are excellent pairs that complement the flavors of this dessert.
Conclusion
Apple pie is a dessert that not only delights with its taste but also with the memories it brings. It is a simple recipe, yet full of flavor, that can be adapted to individual preferences. So, put on your apron, prepare your ingredients, and enjoy the cooking process! Enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: 10-12 apples 200 g sugar 20 g butter raisins sour cherries (jam ones are also good) Dough: 4 eggs 4 tablespoons sugar 4 tablespoons flour 2 packets vanilla sugar a pinch of ammonia
