Apple pie

Apple pie is a dessert that takes us back to childhood, to days spent in the garden, picking ripe and fragrant apples. This simple and delicious recipe, which combines a flaky crust with a sweet and juicy apple filling, is perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it with loved ones at a festive meal or simply as a treat during the week, apple pie will always bring a smile to the faces of those who taste it.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8-10

Ingredients:

*For the crust:*
- 100 g butter (choose high-quality butter for a richer taste)
- 150 g lard (this gives the crust a flaky texture)
- 600 g flour (cake flour is ideal)
- 250 ml cold water (to keep the dough firm)
- 1 teaspoon vinegar (helps achieve a flakier dough)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for added flavor)
- Pinch of salt (helps balance the taste)

*For the filling:*
- 1.5 kg apples (preferably sweet apples like Golden apples)
- 2-3 tablespoons sugar (adjust according to the sweetness of the apples)
- 1 teaspoon anise or cinnamon powder (for an aromatic taste)
- 50 g butter (for sautéing the apples)
- Juice of half a lemon (to prevent the apples from oxidizing and to add acidity)

*Extra:*
- 1 egg (for brushing, to achieve a golden and shiny crust)
- Flour (for dusting the work surface)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the crust: In a large bowl, combine the flour, butter, and lard cut into small cubes. Use a mixer or whisk to incorporate the ingredients until the mixture resembles crumbs. This step is essential for achieving a flaky texture.

2. In another bowl, mix the cold water, vinegar, sugar, and salt. Make sure the sugar completely dissolves. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and knead until you get a firm dough that doesn’t stick to your hands.

3. Form the dough into two balls, wrap them in plastic wrap, and place them in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours or ideally overnight. This step will help firm up the dough and make it easier to roll out later.

4. Preparing the filling: Wash the apples, peel them, and remove the seeds. If you're using healthy apples, you can leave the skin on for added nutrients. Cut them into small cubes.

5. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and add the apples along with the sugar, anise or cinnamon powder, and lemon juice. Sauté the apples for about 5-10 minutes until they become slightly soft but not completely mushy. Let the filling cool.

6. Assembling the pie: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Divide the dough into two equal parts. On a floured surface, roll out the first part of the dough into a thin sheet large enough to cover a 28x40 cm baking tray. Place the dough sheet in the tray, ensuring it reaches the edges.

7. Prick the dough all over with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking. Add the cooled apple filling over the dough in the tray, spreading it evenly.

8. Roll out the second part of the dough and place it over the apple filling. Use a fork to prick this sheet as well, allowing steam to escape during baking.

9. Beat the egg and brush the surface of the pie with it to achieve a beautiful golden crust.

10. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until it becomes golden and crispy.

11. Once the pie is done, let it cool slightly before cutting. If desired, you can dust it with powdered sugar, but I personally prefer to serve it plain, allowing the natural flavors of the apples to shine.

Practical tips:
- Use apples of different varieties for a more complex flavor in the filling.
- If you want a savory variation, replace the apples with cheese or spinach, adding your favorite spices.
- The pie can be served warm with vanilla ice cream or with cream for a delicious contrast.
- Leftovers keep well in the fridge and can be reheated in the oven to regain their crispy texture.

Nutritional benefits:
Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamin C, and using butter and lard in the crust provides healthy fats. This pie is not only delicious but also nutritious, making it a good choice for desserts.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits?
Yes, you can experiment with pears, peaches, or even berries to vary the filling.

2. How can I avoid the dough sticking?
Make sure to use enough flour on the work surface and that the dough is well refrigerated before rolling out.

3. What is the best way to store the pie?
Keep the pie covered at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge for a week, but in this case, it is recommended to reheat it slightly in the oven to restore its crispy texture.

So now that you have all the necessary details, I invite you to try this apple pie recipe and enjoy its flavors and textures. It’s a wonderful way to bring a touch of joy to every day, especially during apple season!

 Ingredients: For the dough: -100 gr butter -150 gr lard -600 gr flour -250 ml water -1 teaspoon vinegar -1 tablespoon sugar -salt For the filling: -1.5 kg cleaned apples -2-3 tablespoons sugar -one teaspoon anise / cinnamon powder -50 gr butter -half lemon juice Extra : -1 egg for greasing -Flour to flour the work surface