Apple Pie
The perfect dessert for autumn days, apple pie is a delicious choice that will bring a touch of warmth to any meal. This classic dish is not only easy to make but also full of flavor, featuring a juicy filling of caramelized apples enriched with cinnamon and orange zest. I invite you to discover the steps needed to achieve a perfect apple pie, ready to impress family and friends.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 12
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 200 g flour
- 200 g semolina
- 200 g sugar
- 200 g butter (or margarine) at room temperature
- 2 eggs
- 1 packet of baking powder
- a pinch of salt
For the filling:
- 10 apples (choose sweet and aromatic apples)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- grated zest of one orange
For decoration:
- Coconut flakes or whipped cream (to taste)
Preparation technique
1. Preparing the caramelized apples:
Start by peeling the apples and cutting them into small cubes or slices. This step is essential as apples are the key ingredient of this dessert. Choose the apples you like best, but sweet ones like Golden or Fuji apples are ideal. Place the apples in a pot over low heat, add sugar, cinnamon, and grated orange zest. Stir occasionally and let simmer until the apples release their juice and become soft, and the syrup reduces. This will take about 10-15 minutes. Once ready, let them cool.
2. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, combine the soft butter or margarine (if it’s not at room temperature, you can warm it slightly in the microwave, but be careful not to melt it completely). Add the sugar and mix well until you achieve a creamy consistency. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Adding the dry ingredients:
Sift the flour, semolina, baking powder, and salt over the butter and egg mixture. Gently mix until combined, avoiding overworking the dough. Once the ingredients are combined, you will have a soft and pliable dough.
4. Assembling the pie:
Wet your hands with water (this trick helps to roll out the dough without sticking) and evenly spread the dough directly onto a baking paper. Ensure you have an even base, then transfer everything to a lined baking tray. Evenly distribute the caramelized apples over the dough, leveling them with a spatula.
5. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the tray in the oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the pie turns golden and a tester inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cooling and decorating:
Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool completely in the tray. This is essential as the pie will cut more easily when cold. Before serving, sprinkle coconut flakes on top or add whipped cream for an elegant touch.
Useful tips and variations
- Types of apples: Experiment with different types of apples to find the perfect balance of sweet and tart. Granny Smith apples add a hint of acidity, while Red apples are sweeter.
- Flavor additions: You can add chopped nuts or ground hazelnuts to the dough for extra texture or even raisins for a more complex flavor.
- Serving: This pie pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of aromatic tea.
- Nutritional benefits: Apples are rich in fiber and vitamins, making this dessert not only delicious but also healthy. Butter provides healthy fats, and cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use another type of fat instead of butter?
Yes, margarine or coconut oil are excellent alternatives, but the texture may vary.
2. How can I tell if the pie is baked?
A tester inserted in the center of the pie should come out clean. Also, the edges of the pie should be slightly golden.
3. Can I make the pie a few days in advance?
Yes, the pie keeps well in the fridge for 3-4 days. You can gently reheat it before serving to restore its freshness.
This apple pie is perfect for enjoying with family or friends, making it ideal for special occasions or a simple afternoon at home. I encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy all its flavors and textures!
Ingredients: For the base: 200 g flour, 200 g semolina, 200 g sugar, 200 g butter (or margarine), 2 eggs, 1 packet of baking powder, a pinch of salt. For the filling: 10 apples, 4 tablespoons of sugar, 2 tablespoons of oil, ground cinnamon, grated orange peel. For decoration: coconut flakes.
