Apple and Walnut Pie

Apple and walnut pie is an iconic dessert, a true delight for the senses, combining the sweet and tart flavors of apples with the crunchy texture of walnuts. This dessert is not just a delicacy, but also a symbol of family gatherings, moments of relaxation, and pleasant memories spent together. Whether served at a festive table or during a weekend with loved ones, apple and walnut pie should not be missing from the culinary repertoire of any cooking enthusiast.

Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients for the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 2 tablespoons lard (or butter, if preferred)
- 2 eggs
- 100 g sugar
- 1 cube of fresh yeast (or 7 g dry yeast)
- a pinch of salt
- grated peel of one lemon
- about 250 ml warm milk

Ingredients for the filling:
- 2 kg apples (any preferred variety, but tart ones are ideal)
- 50 g butter
- 100 g sugar (adjust according to the sweetness of the apples)
- 100 g ground walnuts
- cinnamon to taste (about 1-2 tablespoons)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the dough:
Start by sifting the flour into a large bowl, creating a well in the center. Add salt and sugar around the edge of the flour. Dissolve the fresh yeast in a little warm milk and pour it into the well. Add the lard, beaten eggs, and grated lemon peel.

2. Kneading the dough:
Begin to incorporate the ingredients, gradually adding the rest of the milk until you obtain an elastic and non-sticky dough. Knead the dough for about 10 minutes. Cover it with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, until it doubles in volume.

3. Preparing the filling:
In the meantime, you can prepare the filling. Wash the apples well and grate them. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat, add the grated apples, sugar, and cinnamon. Sauté the mixture, stirring constantly, for about 5-7 minutes, until the apples soften slightly. Remove from heat and let cool.

4. Assembling the pie:
Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. Roll out the first part on a floured surface, forming a thin sheet. Place the apple filling in the center, then sprinkle the ground walnuts on top. Cut the edges of the sheet into strips 2-3 cm wide and weave them over the filling, creating an attractive lattice.

5. The second sheet:
Repeat the same process with the second part of the dough, rolling it out and using the same principle. Place the pie in a baking dish lined with parchment paper.

6. Let rise and bake:
Cover the pie with a clean towel and let it rise for 15 minutes. Before placing it in the oven, brush the surface with a mixture of beaten egg yolk and a little milk for a golden and shiny crust. Bake the pie in a preheated oven at 180°C for about 30 minutes or until it becomes golden and appetizing.

7. Serving:
Once the pie is ready, let it cool slightly before cutting. It is delicious both warm and cold, and can be served plain or with a topping of green walnuts from the pantry "Goodies from Nature." A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sweet cream adds an extra touch of flavor!

Useful tips:
- If you choose to use sweet apples, you can adjust the amount of sugar in the filling.
- Substitute walnuts with almonds or hazelnuts for a different variation.
- Add a few raisins or dried cranberries to the filling for an unusual taste and texture.

Nutritional benefits:
Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, while walnuts provide a good supply of healthy fats and proteins. This pie is not just a delicious dessert, but also a healthier option to satisfy a sweet craving.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast? Yes, you can use 7 g of dry yeast, dissolved in warm milk.
- Can I make the pie using a mixer? Of course, a stand mixer can make kneading easier, but it is just as enjoyable to knead by hand.
- How can I keep the pie fresh? You can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for a longer period.

This apple and walnut pie recipe is more than just a dessert; it is an experience that brings the family together, a sweet story in every slice. Each bite will transport you to a world of flavors and precious memories. So, put on your apron, gather your loved ones around the table, and enjoy the magic of cooking together!