Apple pie
Apple Pie - A Delicacy at Home
Who doesn't fondly remember the apple pies made by grandparents or mother-in-law? This apple pie recipe is a delicious combination of tradition and creativity, and I have personalized it by adding a special touch using oil and lard in the dough. This approach not only enhances the texture, making it more elastic and tender, but also brings an unmistakable taste.
Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 35 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Number of servings: 8-10
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 2 egg yolks
- 100 g sugar
- 100 ml oil (choose a neutral-flavored oil, such as sunflower oil)
- 1 tablespoon lard (make sure it is well chilled)
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1 packet baking powder
- 200 ml yogurt (preferably natural, without additives)
- 500 g flour
- 2 teaspoons lemon essence
For the Filling
- 1 kg apples (preferably Ionatan apples, sweet and aromatic)
- 4 tablespoons sugar
- 3 packets cinnamon sugar (from Dr. Oetker or another brand)
- 1 tablespoon semolina (to absorb excess moisture)
Decoration
- Powdered sugar (for an attractive appearance)
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Apples
We start with the apples, the essence of the pie. Wash the apples well and peel them, keeping the skin. The skin not only adds sweetness but also an interesting texture. Grate the apples on a large grater and place them in a pot over heat. Add the sugar and cinnamon sugar and let them boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. You will know they are ready when a delicious syrup forms. Let them cool, and if you notice a lot of syrup has formed, add a tablespoon of semolina to prevent the dough from getting soggy.
Step 2: Preparing the Dough
In another bowl, mix the egg yolks with the sugar, oil, lemon essence, and a pinch of salt until you have a homogeneous mixture. Add the lard and yogurt in which you have dissolved the baking powder. Mix again. Gradually start incorporating the flour until you obtain a non-sticky and slightly soft dough. Knead a little on a floured surface, then let it rest for 20 minutes, covered with a clean towel.
Step 3: Assembling the Pie
Divide the dough into two equal parts. Using a rolling pin, roll out each part on a floured surface to fit the size of the tray (23x36 cm). Place the first sheet of dough in the tray lined with baking paper, add the cooled apples, and cover with the second sheet. Make sure the edges seal well.
Step 4: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the pie for 35 minutes or until the top sheet turns golden and crispy. Let it cool slightly, then cut into squares and dust with sugar.
Serving
This apple pie is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce for a contrast of textures and flavors.
Practical Tips
1. Choosing Apples: Ionatan apples are excellent for pies due to their sweetness and aroma. You can experiment with other types of apples, such as Granny Smith for a tart contrast.
2. Semolina: If you have excess syrup, don’t hesitate to adjust the amount of semolina. It will help keep the dough dry, providing a pleasant texture.
3. Variations: You can add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling for an extra burst of flavor. Also, a drizzle of lemon juice over the grated apples will enhance the aroma.
Nutritional Benefits
This pie contains apples, which are rich in fiber and vitamins, especially vitamin C. It is a dessert that can be enjoyed in moderation, considering the sugar content.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen apples? Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well of excess water.
- How can I store the pie? You can keep it in the fridge for 3-4 days in an airtight container, and the taste will remain delicious.
The apple pie is more than just a simple dessert; it is a memory of beautiful times, a symbol of family warmth. I encourage you to enjoy this process and personalize your recipe. Happy cooking and enjoy your meal!
Ingredients: For Dough Sheets 2 egg yolks 100 g sugar 100 ml oil 1 tablespoon solid lard (as much as fits in the spoon) 1 pinch of salt 1 packet of baking powder 200 ml yogurt 500 g flour 2 teaspoons lemon essence For the filling: 1 kg Jonathan apples 4 tablespoons sugar 3 packets of cinnamon sugar (from Dr. Oetker) 1 tablespoon semolina Decoration: powdered sugar
