Apple and walnut pie

Apple and Walnut Pastry: a sweet, fluffy, and comforting delight

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Preparation time: 25 minutes
Baking time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 12

The story behind this apple and walnut pastry is one filled with nostalgia and joy. It is a dessert that brings back memories of warm autumn days when apples are in full season and the aromas of cinnamon intertwine with those of walnuts. Each bite is an explosion of flavor, and the fluffy texture of the pastry enveloping the apple and walnut filling will make you return to this dessert again and again.

We begin our culinary adventure with the basic ingredients. Here’s what you will need:

Ingredients:
- 1 kg apples (choose sweet and aromatic varieties like Golden or Gala)
- 300 g granulated sugar (brown sugar can add a hint of caramelization)
- 100 g raisins (you can choose golden ones for a touch of color)
- 300 g ground walnuts (Romanian walnuts bring an authentic flavor)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (a warm hint of flavor)
- 2 tablespoons semolina (optional, to thicken the filling)
- oil (for greasing)
- 10 g butter (for added flavor)
- a package of thin pastry sheets (make sure they are of good quality)
- 1 egg white (for a shiny finish)

Step by step for a perfect result:

1. Preparing the apples:
Peel and core the apples, then grate them using a large grater. This will allow the apples to cook evenly and blend their flavors with the other ingredients.

2. Cooking the apples:
In a pot, add the butter and let it melt over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the grated apples. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. The apples will release their natural juice and soften.

3. Adding flavors:
After the apples have started to soften, add the sugar, raisins, and ground cinnamon. Mix everything well and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes. If the filling is too soft, don't hesitate to add 2 tablespoons of semolina and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the liquid has thickened.

4. Cooling the filling:
Divide the apple mixture into three equal portions and let it cool completely. This is an important step, as hot filling could damage the pastry sheets.

5. Preparing the pastry sheet:
In a small bowl, whisk the egg white with a fork until frothy. Line a baking tray with parchment paper and grease it with a little oil.

6. Assembling the pastry:
Divide the package of pastry sheets into three groups. Take the first sheet, brush it with oil, and sprinkle a little ground walnut. Add a portion of the apple filling and spread it evenly. Carefully roll the sheet, gently pinching the ends to form a log. Repeat this process with the other sheets.

7. Finishing the rolls:
On top of each roll, brush with the beaten egg white and sprinkle with ground walnut. Then, place the rolls seam-side down in the tray, making sure to leave a little space between them.

8. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven for 5 minutes at high heat, then reduce the temperature to 160 degrees Celsius and continue baking for 40 minutes or until the sheets become golden and crispy.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the apple and walnut pastry warm, dusted with powdered sugar on top for an elegant look. You can accompany the dessert with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A cup of tea or freshly brewed coffee will perfectly complement this delight.

Nutritional benefits:
Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins A and C, while walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. This dessert, although sweet, can be enjoyed in moderation and provides important nutritional value.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I replace the walnuts with something else?
Yes, you can use ground almonds or even coconut for a different variation.

- How can I keep the pastry longer?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can reheat it in the oven to make it crispy again.

- Is it possible to make the pastry without sugar?
You can use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but the taste and texture will be slightly different.

It is a simple yet special recipe that blends tradition with innovation, perfect for any occasion. Prepare this dessert at home and let yourself be carried away by its enticing aromas!