Apple pie - 200

Apple Pie Delight - A Sweet Treat for Special Moments

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 25 minutes
Servings: 8

If you're looking for a quick and delicious dessert, this apple pie is definitely the perfect choice. With a flaky crust and a delightful filling of aromatic apples, this dish will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of warmth to any moment of the day. The apple pie has a rich history, being an iconic dessert in many cultures, symbolizing goodness and tradition in the kitchen.

Ingredients Needed

For the crust:
- 150-170 g all-purpose flour (choose a good quality flour for the perfect texture)
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 50 g sugar (you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 80 g melted butter (make sure it's high quality for added flavor)
- 1 egg (to bind the ingredients)
- A pinch of salt (to enhance the flavors)

For the apple filling:
- 750 g tart apples (Granny Smith apples are ideal for a pleasant tartness)
- Juice of one lemon (to prevent the apples from browning and to add a fresh taste)
- Lemon extract (optional, but recommended for added flavor)

For the topping:
- 2 eggs (fresh for better texture)
- 40 g sugar
- 200 ml heavy cream (ensure it's rich cream for a thicker topping)
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch (to thicken the cream)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the crust: In a large bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt. In another bowl, melt the butter and let it cool slightly. Add the egg and melted butter to the flour mixture and mix well until you form a smooth dough.

2. Chilling the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving a flaky crust, as chilling the butter will help maintain the shape of the dough during baking.

3. Preparing the apples: Meanwhile, peel the apples, cut them into quarters, and remove the seeds. Drizzle them with lemon juice to prevent browning and keep them looking fresh.

4. Assembling the pie: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a round pie dish (24 or 26 cm in diameter) with parchment paper. Roll out three-quarters of the chilled dough on the bottom of the dish and create a border with the remaining dough.

5. Adding the apples: Dust the apple pieces with a little flour or cornstarch to absorb excess moisture and prevent a soggy pie. Arrange the apples in the dish and drizzle with lemon extract.

6. Preparing the topping: In a bowl, whisk the eggs with the sugar, then add the cream and cornstarch, mixing well until you have a uniform mixture. After the apples have been in the oven for 25 minutes, pour the topping over the apples and bake for an additional 30 minutes, until the topping is golden and set.

7. Cooling and serving: Allow the pie to cool in the dish, then dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. You can serve the pie warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cream.

Practical Tips

- Choose the right apples: Tart apples are ideal for this recipe, as they provide a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the topping. You can also experiment with different types of apples to find the perfect combination.
- The topping: If you want a more intense flavor, you can add a few drops of vanilla extract to the egg mixture.
- Variations: You can add chopped nuts or ground almonds to the apple filling for extra texture and flavor. A sprinkle of cinnamon will also add a warm, comforting note.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I store the pie?
The pie can be stored in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 2-3 days. I recommend serving it at room temperature to maintain its texture.

Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Absolutely! You can experiment with pears, peaches, or plums. Just make sure to adjust the amount of sugar based on the sweetness of the chosen fruits.

How many calories does a slice of pie have?
A slice of apple pie has approximately 300-350 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is a dessert rich in carbohydrates but also full of vitamins from the apples.

This apple pie is not just a delicious dessert but also a way to create beautiful memories around the table. I encourage you to try this recipe and personalize it to your taste. Whether you serve it at a family gathering or as a personal treat, each slice will bring joy and flavor.

Enjoy your meal!