Apple pie

Apple Pie Recipe: A Delicacy Made with Love

Apple pie is more than just a simple dessert; it is a symbol of comfort, memories, and moments spent with loved ones. This simple and delicious recipe will take you down memory lane, each bite being a journey through flavors and textures. So, get ready to bring a touch of magic to your kitchen!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 2 large eggs
- 8 tablespoons of sugar
- 8 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 8 tablespoons of milk
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 600 g of flour

For the filling:
- 1 kg of apples (preferably a mix of tart and sweet apples)
- 5-6 tablespoons of sugar (adjust according to the sweetness of the apples)
- 100 g of breadcrumbs
- 1-2 tablespoons of cinnamon (to taste)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- Zest of one lemon (or orange for a more exotic flavor)
- Essences (optional, vanilla or rum)

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the Dough
1. In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar using a mixer on medium speed until the mixture becomes frothy and light in color. This will ensure a fluffy texture for your pie.
2. Add the oil and milk, continuing to mix. Make sure the ingredients are well incorporated.
3. In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder and vanilla sugar. Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring with a spatula until a homogeneous dough forms. The dough should be slightly sticky but not excessive, making it easy to handle.
4. Let the dough rest for about 15 minutes, covered with a clean towel. This resting time helps the gluten relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

Step 2: Preparing the Filling
1. Peel the apples and grate them. It is important to drain the juice well to avoid a soggy dough.
2. In a bowl, mix the grated apples with the sugar, cinnamon, lemon zest, breadcrumbs, and essences. The breadcrumbs will absorb the apple juice and help keep the dough crispy. Let the filling sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

Step 3: Assembling the Pie
1. Divide the dough into two equal parts. On a floured work surface, roll out the first part of the dough until you get a thin sheet.
2. Place the sheet in a baking tray lined with parchment paper, ensuring it covers the bottom well.
3. Evenly distribute the apple filling over the dough sheet.
4. Roll out the second part of the dough and place it over the apples, sealing the edges well to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.
5. Using a fork, make a few holes in the top dough to allow steam to escape during baking. Brush the pie with apple juice to give it a beautiful golden color.

Step 4: Baking
1. Preheat the oven to 175°C. Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden and crispy.
2. After baking, let the pie cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving and Suggestions
Apple pie is served warm or at room temperature, as a dessert or snack. It is delicious alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sweet cream. A cup of tea or coffee can perfectly complement this culinary experience.

Tips and Variations
- If you want to add a touch of originality, you can replace some of the flour with almond flour or add chopped nuts to the filling.
- An interesting idea is to add raisins or dried cranberries for a fruity note.
- You can experiment with spices, adding ginger or nutmeg for a more complex flavor.

Nutritional Benefits
Apple pie is not only delicious but also full of nutrients. Apples are rich in fiber and vitamins, contributing to healthy digestion. Additionally, cinnamon has antioxidant properties and can help regulate blood sugar levels. However, it is best to consume this dessert in moderation, considering its sugar content.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples? Yes, you can experiment with peaches, plums, or cherries, adjusting the sugar amount to taste.
2. How do I keep the pie fresh longer? You can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days. You can freeze the pie, thawing it later at room temperature or in the oven.
3. Is this recipe vegan? No, but you can replace the eggs with a mixture of mashed banana or soy yogurt, and the milk with plant-based milk.

In conclusion, apple pie is a versatile and easy-to-make recipe, perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it at a family meal or bring it to a party, it is sure to be a hit! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and enjoy every bite!