Rustic apple pie

Rustic Apple Pie - a classic recipe, full of flavor and nostalgia

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

The rustic apple pie is a dessert that reminds us of childhood, the warm scent of caramelized apples, and the moments spent around the table with family. This simple and delicious recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you want to sweeten an ordinary day or impress your guests. Additionally, it is a vegan pie, meaning you can enjoy it without any worries.

Necessary ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g flour (preferably type 000 for a finer dough)
- 25 g fresh yeast (or 7 g dry yeast)
- 50 ml oil (you can use sunflower or olive oil)
- 200 ml warm water (approximately)
- 1 teaspoon salt

For the filling:
- 1 kg apples (preferably tart varieties, such as Granny Smith or Jonathan)
- 300 g sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- 1-2 tablespoons of cinnamon (for a more intense flavor)
- A few ground nuts (optional, for added texture and flavor)
- Oil for greasing the pan and granulated sugar for decoration

Step by step to a perfect pie

1. Preparing the filling: Start by washing the apples. Then, peel them and grate them. This step is essential as grated apples will cook more evenly and release the necessary juices to create a delicious filling.

2. Sautéing the apples: In a large skillet, add the oil or butter (if you prefer a richer taste). Sauté the grated apples over medium heat, stirring frequently, until they change color and become slightly translucent. Then, add the sugar and cinnamon. Continue to cook the mixture, letting it reduce slightly, until the sugar dissolves completely and the apples become soft. Add the ground nuts and mix everything well. Let the mixture cool.

3. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, add the flour, salt, and yeast dissolved in warm water. You can skip the leavening step by mixing all the ingredients directly until you get a homogeneous dough. Gradually add the oil and continue kneading the dough for 5-10 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, but be careful not to make it too hard.

4. Forming the sheet: On a floured surface, roll out the dough into a thin sheet. Make sure you have enough flour on the surface to prevent sticking. It is important that the sheet is even to ensure even baking.

5. Assembling the pie: Place the cooled apple filling on the dough sheet, spreading it evenly. Carefully roll the dough, forming a log, just like with a sweet bread. Make sure the filling is well wrapped in the dough to avoid leaks.

6. Baking: Grease a pan with oil and place the pie log in the pan. You can place it seam side down to prevent it from unrolling during baking. Sprinkle granulated sugar on top to achieve a caramelized and delicious crust. Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the pie for 40 minutes, or until it becomes golden and crispy.

7. Cooling and serving: After the pie is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. This step is crucial as it improves the texture and allows the filling to set well. Serve the pie warm, alongside a fragrant tea or a glass of milk.

Useful tips:
- You can add other flavors to the filling, such as nutmeg or vanilla, to give it a unique taste.
- Instead of apples, you can use pears or even a combination of fruits, such as peaches and plums, for a seasonal variation.
- If you want to turn the pie into a more sophisticated dessert, you can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on top.
- This recipe is easily adaptable for vegans by using oil instead of butter and omitting all dairy products.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use 7 g of dry yeast instead of 25 g of fresh yeast. Make sure to activate it according to the instructions on the package.

2. How can I keep the pie longer?
The pie can be kept at room temperature, covered with a clean towel. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Cut into portions and wrap them in plastic wrap.

3. Is this pie suitable for diabetics?
If you want to reduce the sugar, you can use natural sweeteners or stevia. However, it is recommended to consult a specialist before making such adjustments.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This pie contains approximately 250 calories per serving, depending on the exact ingredients used. Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamins, especially vitamin C, contributing to a healthy diet. Additionally, nuts add healthy fats and proteins, making this pie not only delicious but also nutritious.

So, don’t hesitate! Embrace tradition and treat your family or friends to this rustic apple pie. You will not only bring a dessert but also beautiful memories to your tables. Cooking is an art, and every recipe is a story. So, let’s write a delicious one together!