Apple pie
Delicious Apple Pie: a classic and comforting dessert
Who doesn't love the warm aroma of a freshly baked apple pie? This traditional dessert is more than just a simple recipe; it's an invitation to sweet memories, to moments spent with loved ones. Today, I will guide you step by step in creating an apple pie that will bring smiles to everyone's faces. Whether it's a special occasion or just a Sunday afternoon, this recipe will give you a perfect result every time.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 12
Necessary ingredients:
For the dough:
- 500 g of flour (approximately, varying depending on the humidity in the air and the quality of the flour)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 cup of cold water
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 1 teaspoon of vinegar (this helps to tenderize the dough)
For the filling:
- Grated apples (approximately 1-1.5 kg of apples, depending on taste)
- Sugar (to taste, usually 100-150 g)
- Ground cinnamon (1-2 tablespoons, to preference)
Preparing the dough:
1. Start by placing the flour in a large bowl. Make a well in the center of the flour and sprinkle a pinch of salt into it. This will add a pleasant flavor to the dough.
2. Add the vinegar and 2-3 tablespoons of oil into the well. The vinegar will help achieve a more tender dough, so don’t skip it!
3. Begin to add cold water gradually while mixing with a fork or by hand. It’s important to add the water slowly to control the consistency of the dough.
4. Knead the dough until you obtain a suitably firm but fluffy composition. It should be soft but not sticky to the hands.
5. Divide the dough into 4-6 pieces. Cover them with a damp towel and let them rest for 10-15 minutes. This will allow the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.
Preparing the filling:
6. If you are using winter-stored apples, make sure they are well drained of juices. If using fresh apples, grate them and sprinkle with a little sugar and cinnamon. These spices will add fantastic flavor and enhance the sweetness of the apples.
Assembling the pie:
7. On a floured surface, roll out each piece of dough with a rolling pin until you achieve very thin sheets. Make sure not to use too much flour, as this could make the dough heavier.
8. Drizzle the dough sheets with a little oil to make them flakier. Place a generous layer of grated apples on half of each sheet.
9. Roll each sheet with filling into a log. Place the obtained logs in a greased baking dish.
10. Cut the logs in the dish into slices of about 2-3 cm and brush them with oil using a pastry brush. This step will add a golden and crispy crust.
Baking the pie:
11. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and let it bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden and crispy.
12. Once the pie is done, remove it from the oven and dust it with sugar, if desired. This addition of sugar will provide a pleasant contrast to the flavor of the apples.
Serving and suggestions:
The apple pie is served warm, but it is just as delicious at room temperature. You can accompany it with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cream for a creamy contrast.
Tips and useful advice:
- If you prefer a less sweet pie, adjust the amount of sugar according to how sweet your apples are.
- Instead of apples, you can experiment with other fruits, such as pears or peaches, to create delicious variations.
- Make sure to use cold water for the dough; this helps achieve a tender texture.
- Give the pie an extra flavor by adding some chopped nuts or raisins to the filling.
Nutritional benefits:
Apples are rich in fiber and vitamins, having benefits for digestion and heart health. This dessert can be a healthier choice if you use brown sugar or sugar substitutes.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned apples? Yes, but make sure they are well drained to avoid excess moisture in the pie.
- How can I store the pie? You can keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge for a longer duration.
- Can the pie be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the pie before baking it. Place it in a suitable container and, when you want to use it, let it thaw and then bake it according to the instructions.
In conclusion, this apple pie recipe is an excellent choice for any occasion. With a flaky crust and a sweet-tart filling, it will bring a touch of joy to every slice. So, put on your apron and start your culinary adventure! Enjoy!
Ingredients: For the dough: 500 g flour (approximately) a pinch of salt a cup of cold water 2-3 tablespoons of oil 1 teaspoon of vinegar Filling: grated apples sugar ground cinnamon
