Apple pie 2

Apple Pie - A Classic and Comforting Dessert

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Servings: 12

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty dessert, apple pie is the perfect choice. This recipe combines the sweet and slightly tart flavors of apples with a fluffy texture, providing a delightful experience for both adults and children. Inspired by a traditional recipe, apple pie often takes center stage at family meals and gatherings with friends. Get ready to indulge your taste buds!

Ingredients

*For the dough:*
- 500 g flour
- 50 g butter (softened at room temperature)
- 1 egg (preferably at room temperature)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 tablespoons sour cream (ideally high-fat)
- 140 ml milk (warm)
- 12 g fresh yeast (or 5 g dry yeast)
- A pinch of salt
- Grated zest of one orange (for extra flavor)
- 1-2 tablespoons semolina (to sprinkle between layers)

*For the filling:*
- 2 kg apples (choose sweet-tart varieties, such as green or yellow apples)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for a warm and comforting aroma)
- 3 teaspoons powdered sugar with vanilla paste (or natural vanilla)
- 2 tablespoons oil (for sautéing the apples)
- 1/2 teaspoon anise (optional, but adds an exotic note)
- 6-7 tablespoons sugar (depending on the sweetness of the apples)

Preparation

1. Preparing the apple filling:
Start by washing the apples thoroughly. Peel them and grate them using a large grater. It’s important not to squeeze them too hard to retain the natural juice of the apples.

In a pan, add the oil, grated apples, sugar, and powdered sugar with vanilla. Gently mix to avoid crushing the apples. Let them sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the juices reduce. Towards the end, add the cinnamon and anise, allowing the mixture to cook for another minute. Turn off the heat and let the apples cool.

2. Preparing the dough:
Warm the milk until it’s lukewarm (not hot!), then add the yeast and sugar. Mix well and let it sit in a warm place for 10 minutes until it forms a foam.

In a large bowl, beat the egg with the salt, then add the sour cream. Mix well to achieve a homogeneous composition. Sift the flour into another bowl, add the cubed butter, and mix until it’s incorporated into the flour.

Add the egg and sour cream mixture, then the milk with yeast gradually, and knead until you obtain an elastic dough. If it’s too sticky, add a bit more flour. Finally, incorporate the grated orange zest for extra flavor.

Cover the dough with a damp towel and let it rise for 15 minutes in a warm place.

3. Assembling the pie:
Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. Roll out each part into a rectangular sheet using a rolling pin. Make sure the sheets are the size of the baking tray you will use.

Grease a tray with butter and line it with parchment paper. Place the first sheet of dough in the tray, sprinkle the semolina evenly, then add the apple filling and distribute it evenly with a spatula. Cover with the second sheet of dough, which you will prick in several places with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.

4. Baking the pie:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the tray in the oven and bake the pie for about 35-40 minutes, or until it turns golden and beautifully browned.

Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the tray for 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer the pie to a rack to cool completely.

5. Serving:
Before serving, sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch. Apple pie can be served plain, but pairing it with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sour cream will elevate the dessert to an unforgettable experience.

Helpful tips:
- Make sure the apples are well drained to avoid a soggy filling.
- You can add nuts or raisins to the filling for extra texture.
- For a more intense flavor, replace the powdered sugar with brown sugar.

Nutritional information:
This apple pie is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Apples are rich in fiber and vitamin C, and using whole ingredients makes it healthier. However, considering the amounts of sugar and butter, it’s recommended to enjoy it in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely! You can replace the apples with pears, peaches, or even blueberries to create delicious variations.

2. How can I store the pie?
The pie can be kept at room temperature in an airtight container for 2-3 days. You can also freeze it, but make sure it’s well covered.

3. What drinks pair well with apple pie?
A cup of fruit tea or a sweet wine are excellent combinations. Additionally, a black coffee can perfectly contrast the sweetness of the dessert.

In conclusion, apple pie is more than just a simple dessert; it’s a reminder of moments spent with loved ones. Whether you enjoy it at a family meal or share it with friends, this dessert will always bring smiles and beautiful stories. Enjoy and experiment with love!