Apple and Walnut Pie

Apple and Walnut Pie – A Fragrant Dessert for Autumn

Who doesn't love the enticing aroma of baked apples and cinnamon wafting through the air, heralding the arrival of autumn? This apple and walnut pie recipe will not only bring a piece of the chilly season into your home but will also offer an explosion of flavors and textures that melt in your mouth. Perfect for a family weekend or to be enjoyed with friends, this pie is sure to become a favorite for everyone. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Rising time: 60 minutes
Baking time: 35-40 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 55 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 450 g flour (use high-quality flour for a fluffier dough)
- 20 g fresh yeast (or 7 g dry yeast)
- 140 g natural yogurt (can be replaced with kefir for a tangier note)
- 1 egg (at room temperature)
- 5 tablespoons sugar (adjust to taste)
- 70 ml milk (preferably whole)
- 60 g butter (melted and cooled)
- a pinch of salt
- grated zest of one orange (for flavor)

For the filling:
- 1.4 kg apples (choose sweet-tart apples like Granny Smith or Golden)
- 6-7 tablespoons sugar (you can adjust based on the sweetness of the apples)
- 2 tablespoons oil (sunflower or canola)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (or more, to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground anise (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 teaspoons powdered sugar with vanilla paste (for a refined taste)
- 1/2 cup ground walnuts (you can also use almonds or hazelnuts)
- 1 egg (for brushing)
- sugar for dusting (for decoration)

A Bit of History

Apple pies have a long-standing tradition, being among the most beloved desserts in many cultures. They symbolize abundance and gratitude, often served during celebrations. The merits of this delicious dessert are due not only to its taste but also to its versatility – it can be made with various fillings or spices, adapting to everyone's preferences.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the dough

1. In a small bowl, mix 20 g of yeast with 1 tablespoon of sugar until the yeast is completely dissolved. Set it aside for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. In a saucepan, pour 70 ml of milk and 60 g of butter. Place the saucepan on low heat, stirring until the milk is warm and the butter is completely melted.
3. In a large bowl, sift 450 g of flour, add a pinch of salt, the remaining sugar (4 tablespoons), the activated yeast, the egg, and the grated orange zest. Mix gently with a spatula or by hand.
4. Incorporate the yogurt and the milk-butter mixture, kneading the dough until it becomes smooth, non-sticky, and easy to shape. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour.
5. Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it sit in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour, until it doubles in volume.

Step 2: Preparing the filling

1. Wash the apples, peel them, and grate them using a large grater. It is essential to squeeze them well to avoid a watery filling.
2. In a pot, add 2 tablespoons of oil and the grated apples. Sprinkle with sugar and the vanilla paste. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until the apples no longer have juice and become soft (about 10-15 minutes).
3. Turn off the heat and flavor with cinnamon and ground anise. Let the filling cool slightly before adding the ground walnuts. Mix well.

Step 3: Assembling the pie

1. Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. Sprinkle a little flour on the work surface and roll out the first sheet as thin as possible, being careful not to tear it.
2. Grease a rectangular baking dish with margarine and line it with parchment paper. Place the first sheet in the dish and prick it with a fork to prevent puffing during baking.
3. Pour the apple and walnut filling, leveling it evenly with a spatula.
4. Roll out the second sheet of dough and place it over the filling, pricking it again with a fork. Use the excess dough to create a small pie or decorative leaves, which will make the dessert look even more appetizing.
5. Beat an egg and brush the pie with a pastry brush for a golden and shiny crust.

Step 4: Baking

1. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
2. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden and browned.
3. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly. Dust with sugar before serving.

Practical Tips

- Choosing apples: Tart apples like Granny Smith work best, but you can mix different types of apples for a complex flavor.
- Vegan option: You can replace the egg in the dough with a mixture of 2 tablespoons of water, 1 tablespoon of oil, and 1 tablespoon of flour. Also, use vegan butter and plant-based yogurt.
- Serving: The apple pie is delicious both warm and cold. Try serving it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a dollop of whipped cream for a contrast of textures.
- Storage: It keeps well at room temperature, covered, for 2-3 days. You can freeze it, cut into portions, for a taste of autumn whenever you want.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use canned apples? We recommend fresh apples for better texture, but in an emergency, you can use canned apples, making sure they are well drained.
- What other spices can I add? Experiment with ground ginger or nutmeg for a more exotic flavor.
- How can I make the pie less sweet? Reduce the amount of sugar in the filling and dough, or use tarter apples.

This apple and walnut pie recipe is not only a simple dessert to prepare, but it will also bring a piece of autumn magic directly to your table. Feel free to adapt the ingredients to your personal preferences, and the result will always be delicious! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: For the dough: 450 g flour, 20 g yeast, 140 g natural yogurt, 1 egg, 5 tablespoons sugar, 70 ml milk, 60 g butter, a pinch of salt, grated orange peel. Filling: 1.4 kg apples, 6-7 tablespoons sugar, 2 tablespoons oil, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground anise, 2 teaspoons powdered sugar with vanilla pods, 1/2 cup ground walnuts, 1 egg for brushing, sugar for dusting.

 Tags:  apple pie