Apple Pie (2)
Apple pie is a classic dessert that evokes pleasant memories and the warmth of home. This simple and delicious recipe transforms apples into the stars of a dish that can be enjoyed on any occasion. Whether it's a family meal, a gathering with friends, or simply a quiet evening at home, apple pie brings a touch of happiness to every slice.
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8
Necessary ingredients
*For the crust:*
- 150 g sugar
- 150 g butter (at room temperature)
- 300 g flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder (about 10 g)
- 1 egg
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
*For the filling:*
- 6-8 apples (preferably sweet and fragrant, such as Golden or Gala)
- 2 apples sliced
- 3-4 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for extra flavor)
The story behind the recipe
Apple pie has been appreciated over time in many cultures, being a symbol of comfort and tradition. Apples, an accessible and versatile fruit, have been used since ancient times in sweet and savory dishes. This recipe is a simple version that highlights the natural taste of apples and is popular among those who love cooking at home.
Step by step for a perfect result
1. Preparing the apple filling
Start by peeling the apples. Use a vegetable peeler or a sharp knife to remove the skin. Then, grate the apples using a large grater. This will help cook the apples evenly.
Put the grated apples in a saucepan over medium heat and add the sugar. Stir occasionally until the apples release their juice and it evaporates, and the mixture becomes thicker. This process takes about 10-15 minutes.
Once the mixture is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. After it has cooled, add the ground cinnamon and the two sliced apples. Mix well to distribute the flavor evenly.
2. Preparing the crust
In a large bowl, add the butter at room temperature and the sugar. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to mix until you get a fluffy cream. It is essential that the butter is soft to incorporate well with the sugar.
Add the egg and vanilla sugar, continuing to mix until the mixture becomes homogeneous.
In another bowl, sift the flour and baking powder. This step is important to avoid lumps in the dough.
Gradually incorporate the flour mixture into the butter mixture, kneading with your hands or a spatula until you obtain a firm and non-sticky dough. If the dough is too soft, you can add a few tablespoons of flour.
3. Assembling the pie
Preheat the oven to 180°C.
Divide the dough into two parts: 2/3 for the base and 1/3 for the lattice. Roll out the 2/3 of the dough on a floured surface using a rolling pin. You should get a circle the size of your round baking pan, then carefully place it in the pan lined with baking paper. Make sure the edge of the dough rises slightly on the sides of the pan to hold the filling.
Pour the apple filling over the dough base, smoothing it out with a spatula.
From the remaining dough, form thin strips that you will place on top of the pie, creating a lattice. This detail not only adds a nice visual aspect but also allows steam to escape during baking.
4. Baking and cooling
Place the pan in the preheated oven and let it bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the lattice becomes golden and crispy.
After this time, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes. This moment is crucial to allow the pie to stabilize so that you can easily remove it from the pan without breaking.
5. Serving
Once the pie has completely cooled, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for an elegant look. You can cut the pie into generous slices and serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce for a delicious contrast.
Practical tips
- Choosing apples: Use different types of apples, such as sweet and tart ones, to achieve a complex and flavorful filling.
- For extra flavor: You can add some chopped nuts or raisins to the apple filling to diversify the textures.
- The taste of cinnamon: If you are a spice lover, you can also add a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves for an extra flavor boost.
Nutritional information
This apple pie contains approximately 250 calories per serving, making it a relatively healthy choice due to its fruit content. Apples are rich in fiber and vitamins, contributing to a balanced diet.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use canned apples for this recipe?
It is recommended to use fresh apples, as canned ones may be too wet and compromise the texture of the pie.
2. How can I store the apple pie?
You can keep the pie at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the refrigerator for 5-7 days. Make sure it is covered to prevent drying out.
3. Can I freeze the pie?
Yes, the pie can be frozen. Before baking, you can cover the pan well with aluminum foil and keep it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you are ready to bake it, let it thaw completely and follow the baking instructions from the recipe.
Possible variations
- Instead of apples, you can experiment with pears or peaches to create a pie with different fruits.
- For a special taste, add a splash of rum or almond extract to the apple filling.
This apple pie will surely become a favorite in your household. It is a dessert that brings joy and comfort, perfect for enjoying with loved ones. So, embark on a culinary adventure and let yourself be carried away by the delicious aromas of this recipe!
Ingredients: Base: 150 g sugar 150 g butter 300 g flour 1 baking powder 1 egg 1 packet vanilla sugar For the filling: 6-8 grated apples 2 sliced apples 3-4 tablespoons sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon
