Apple pie

Apple Pie: A Classic Childhood Delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12

Who doesn't remember the inviting aroma of a fresh apple pie wafting through the house? This apple pie is not only an excellent dessert for any occasion but also a wonderful way to bring a touch of nostalgia into your life. With a mix of sweet apples and raisins, this recipe offers a perfect combination of flavors and textures, ideal for enjoying alongside a cup of tea or coffee.

Ingredients needed:

*For the filling:*
- 2 kg peeled and grated apples
- A handful of raisins (about 100 g)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 teaspoons of cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon heaped of semolina

*For the dough:*
- 500 g flour
- A pinch of salt
- 3 large tablespoons of lard (or butter, if you prefer)
- 5 tablespoons of sour cream
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 2 large eggs
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1/2 packet of baking powder

Preparation:

1. Preheat the oven: Start by preheating the oven to 220 degrees Celsius. This will help create a beautiful golden crust.

2. Prepare the filling: In a pan, add the grated apples and raisins. On low heat, sauté the mixture for 10 minutes. It’s important to stir occasionally to ensure the apples don’t stick to the pan. Once the apples become soft, add the sugar and cinnamon, mixing well. Allow the mixture to cool slightly and add the semolina, which will help absorb excess moisture.

3. Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder and a pinch of salt. Add the diced lard, sour cream, sugar, eggs, and lemon zest. Use a food processor to knead the ingredients for about 5 minutes until a soft but dense dough forms. If kneading by hand, work quickly to avoid melting the lard.

4. Divide the dough: Once the dough is ready, divide it into two equal parts. On a floured surface, roll out each part into a sheet the size of your baking tray (preferably 35 x 25 cm).

5. Assemble the pie: Line the baking tray with parchment paper. Place the first sheet of dough in the tray and prick it in several places with a fork. Pour the apple mixture over the sheet, distributing it evenly. Then, cover with the second sheet of dough, pricking it again with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.

6. Bake: Bake the pie for 5 minutes at 220 degrees, then reduce the temperature to 180 degrees and continue baking for 35-40 minutes, or until the pie turns golden. It’s important to monitor the pie, as each oven bakes differently.

7. Cooling and serving: Once baked, let the pie cool in the tray. Dust powdered sugar over it before cutting into servings. Enjoy!

Helpful tips:

- Choosing apples: Choose apples that are fragrant and not too soft. Granny Smith or tart-sweet apples are excellent for this recipe.
- Variations: You can add chopped nuts or almonds to the filling for extra texture. You can also substitute raisins with dried cranberries for a contrast in acidity.
- Warm treat: Serve the pie warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with sour cream. This combination will turn the dessert into a truly decadent experience.

Nutritional benefits:

Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and antioxidants. Eating apples can support digestion, heart health, and provide a quick energy boost.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other fruits? Absolutely! You can use pears or peaches, adjusting the sugar amounts based on the sweetness of the fruits.
- How long does the pie last? Stored in an airtight container, the pie can last at room temperature for 3-4 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
- Is it suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe by using vegetable oil instead of lard and replacing the eggs with a vegan substitute (e.g., a mashed banana or a flaxseed mixture).

In conclusion, apple pie is not just a dessert but also a way to create beautiful memories with loved ones. Whether you serve it on a special occasion or simply to indulge at the end of the day, each slice will bring a smile to your face. Try this simple and delicious recipe and enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: 2 kg of peeled and grated apples, a handful of raisins, 4 tablespoons of sugar, 2 teaspoons of cinnamon, 1 tablespoon of semolina. Dough: 500 g of flour, a pinch of salt, 3 tablespoons of lard, 5 tablespoons of sour cream, 4 tablespoons of sugar, 2 large eggs, grated zest from 1 lemon, 1/2 packet of baking powder.