Apple pie

Today I invite you to discover a delicious apple pie recipe that will fill your home with enticing aromas and bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. This apple pie recipe is a classic version but with a modern twist, thanks to the pâte brisée crust, which is easy to prepare and extremely tasty. The pie is perfect for any occasion, from a quick snack to an elegant dessert after a festive meal.

Total preparation time: approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Necessary ingredients

*For the crust:*
- 350 g flour
- 150 g sugar (preferably granulated sugar for better texture)
- 175 g cold butter, diced (make sure it is of high quality)
- 1 pinch of salt
- 2 egg yolks
- 6-7 tablespoons cold water

*For the filling:*
- 6 large Granny Smith apples (or Jonagold, as I used)
- 100 g raisins
- 1 cup sugar (approximately 200 ml)
- 4 heaping tablespoons cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for a more intense flavor, you can use 1 teaspoon)

*Other ingredients:*
- 1 tablespoon semolina
- 1 egg yolk (for brushing)
- Powdered sugar for decoration

A brief history of apple pie

Apple pie is a traditional dessert that has won the hearts of many over the centuries. Although recipes vary from culture to culture, the essence remains the same: crispy apples combined with a perfect crust. This pie was often made in households as a way to preserve autumn apples and use them throughout the winter. Today, it is a symbol of comfort and family gatherings.

Step by step for a perfect result

1. Preparing the crust
- In a large bowl, combine the salt, flour, and sugar. These ingredients will blend perfectly to form a delicious base.
- Add the cold butter cubes and, using a fork, start incorporating them into the flour until you achieve a sandy texture. This is an essential step, as the cold butter will make the crust flaky and flavorful.
- Add the egg yolks and cold water, mixing quickly with your hands until all the ingredients come together into a uniform dough. Do not knead too much to maintain a fluffy texture.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial to allow the butter to firm up, which will help the dough maintain its shape during baking.

2. Preparing the filling
- Peel the apples and cut them into cubes. Choose apples that are slightly tart, as they will balance the sweetness of the sugar.
- In a saucepan, add the apple cubes, sugar, cornstarch, and raisins. The cornstarch will help thicken the filling, while the raisins will add a touch of sweetness.
- Place the saucepan over low heat and stir continuously until the mixture thickens. This process should not take more than 10 minutes. Once the filling is ready, allow it to cool completely.

3. Assembling the pie
- Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.
- Divide the dough into two equal parts. This will help you easily roll out the dough sheets.
- Using a rolling pin, roll out the first sheet and place it in the baking dish. Make sure the sides of the dish are covered with dough, leaving a margin of about 4 cm.
- Sprinkle a tablespoon of semolina on the bottom of the dish to absorb excess moisture from the apples and prevent the crust from becoming soggy.
- Add the cooled apple filling, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
- Then, roll out the second sheet of dough and cover the pie. Press the edges to seal the pie well.

4. Baking
- Brush the surface of the pie with a beaten egg yolk to achieve a golden and appetizing crust.
- Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until it becomes golden and crispy. It is advisable to cover the pie with a sheet of parchment paper in the last 10 minutes of baking to prevent burning.
- After removing the pie from the oven, let it cool in the dish for 15-20 minutes before transferring it to a platter.

5. Serving
- Sprinkle powdered sugar on top of the pie before cutting it into servings. This addition not only gives it an elegant appearance but also provides a sweet contrast on the palate.
- The apple pie can be served warm or at room temperature, accompanied by a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. This combination will turn a simple dessert into a true delicacy.

Tips and variations

- For an even more intense flavor, add some chopped nuts to the filling. They will add a crunchy note and delicious aroma.
- Try different types of apples. Sweeter apples, such as Golden Delicious, can add a different texture and greater sweetness.
- Enrich the filling with spices like nutmeg or vanilla to add extra depth of flavor.

Nutritional information

Apple pie is a source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants due to the apples. Each serving contains approximately:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Protein: 3 g

This pie is not only delicious but also a healthier choice compared to other desserts, thanks to the natural ingredients.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use cooked apples instead of fresh apples?
- It is recommended to use fresh apples, as they retain their texture and flavor during baking. Cooked apples can make the filling too soft.

2. How do I keep the pie fresh?
- The pie can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. You can reheat it gently in the oven before serving.

3. Can I freeze the apple pie?
- Yes, the pie can be frozen. Make sure it is completely cooled before freezing. Once thawed, bake it to restore its crispy texture.

I encourage you to try this apple pie recipe and enjoy every bite! This is not just a recipe, but an experience that will bring pleasant memories and unforgettable moments with your loved ones. Enjoy!