Apple pie

Apple Pie - Classic and Delicious Recipe

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8

Apple pie is one of the most beloved desserts in culinary tradition. Its inviting aroma and crispy texture make this pie a favorite for everyone, from kids to adults. This recipe is simple and quick, perfect for bringing a touch of warmth and comfort on chilly days or impressing guests.

Necessary ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 300 g flour
- 175 g margarine (or butter for a richer taste)
- 75 g sugar
- 1 egg
- 50 ml cold water

*For the filling:*
- 400 g peeled and thinly sliced apples
- 75 g sugar (you can adjust based on the sweetness of the apples)
- 50 g raisins (optional, but adds a delicious taste)
- 25 g breadcrumbs (to absorb the apple juice and prevent the dough from getting soggy)

A Bit of History:
Apple pie has deep roots in culinary culture, being a cherished dessert in many kitchens around the world. Since ancient times, people have used apples as a versatile ingredient, and apple pies quickly became a symbol of hospitality. This recipe has been passed down through generations, adapted and improved over the years.

Step by Step: Making the Apple Pie

1. Preparing the dough:
- In a large bowl, add the softened margarine at room temperature and sugar. Use a mixer or spatula to combine them until you get a smooth and creamy mixture.
- Add the egg and mix well, then gradually incorporate the flour. You can use a sieve to avoid lumps.
- Gradually add the cold water until you obtain a smooth dough. Do not knead too much, to avoid it becoming elastic. If it is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.
- Divide the dough into two, keeping 200 g for the pie lid and using 400 g for the base and edges of the pan.

2. Preparing the pan:
- Preheat the oven to 170°C.
- Grease a round pan with a diameter of 20 cm with a little oil or margarine.
- Roll out the 400 g of dough into a thin sheet and place it in the pan, making sure to cover the edges as well.

3. The filling:
- Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumbs on the bottom of the pan; this will help absorb the apple juices and keep the dough crispy.
- Add the apple slices evenly over the breadcrumbs, then sprinkle the sugar and raisins. If you like more intense flavors, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or a little lemon juice for a fresher taste.

4. The lid:
- Roll out the remaining 200 g of dough and place it over the filling. You can decorate it with a fork or knife, cutting a few slits to allow steam to escape.
- Optionally, you can brush the lid with an egg yolk for a beautiful golden color.

5. Baking:
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour, or until the dough becomes golden and crispy. Check occasionally to ensure it doesn't burn.

6. Cooling and serving:
- After baking, let the pie cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps maintain the ideal texture.
- It can be served warm or at room temperature, plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream on top.

Practical Tips:
- Use apples that are suitable for pies, such as Granny Smith or Golden Delicious, to achieve a perfect balance between sweet and tart.
- If you want to add a hint of flavor, you can sprinkle a little cinnamon or nutmeg over the apples before covering them with dough.
- Try adding other fruits, such as pears or peaches, for a more unique version of the pie.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use butter instead of margarine?
- Absolutely! Butter provides a richer taste and better texture.

2. What other ingredients can I add to the filling?
- You can try adding nuts or hazelnuts for extra crunch or even a splash of rum for an intense flavor.

3. How can I keep the pie fresh?
- Keep the pie covered at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge for a week. You can also freeze it before baking, so it's ready to use anytime.

Nutritional Benefits:
Apple pie is an excellent source of fiber due to the apples, which contribute to healthy digestion. Apples are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making this pie not only a delicious dessert but also a healthier choice compared to other processed sweet options.

Serving Suggestions:
This pie pairs perfectly with a fragrant tea or a glass of sweet white wine. Additionally, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream can turn the dessert into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Enjoy every bite of this apple pie, which will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Bon appétit!

 Ingredients: Dough ingredients 300g flour 175g margarine 75g sugar 1 egg 50ml water Filling 400g peeled and sliced apples 75g sugar 50g raisins 25g breadcrumbs