Apple pie

The perfect dessert for any occasion, the apple pie, is the ideal combination of sweetness and flavor. This simple and delicious recipe, inspired by family traditions, promises to bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Whether you prepare it for a family meal or to share with friends, each bite will evoke pleasant memories and transform any moment into a celebration of tastes.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

- 4 eggs
- 100 g powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons of sugar (for the filling)
- 1 kg apples (preferably varieties that hold up well when cooked, such as Granny Smith apples)
- 250 g butter (partially melted)
- 800 g flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (this will add a warm and fragrant note)
- 1 packet baking powder mixed with lemon juice
- A pinch of salt

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the apples: Start by peeling the apples and grating them on a large grater. This step will not only help to even out the composition, but it will also allow the sugar and cinnamon to perfectly infiltrate the apple flesh. Then, in a pan, add 50 g of butter and let it melt over medium heat.

2. Sautéing the apples: Add the grated apples to the pan, along with the 2 tablespoons of sugar and cinnamon. Mix well and let them sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become soft. Once they have taken on a slightly golden color and the aroma has filled the kitchen, remove the pan from the heat and let the mixture cool.

3. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, place the flour and melted butter (but not completely, it should be just slightly warm). Start kneading with your hands until the dough has a crumbly texture. Then add the powdered sugar, salt, baking powder mixed with lemon juice, and the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. The goal is to obtain a non-sticky and elastic dough.

4. Chilling the dough: Once the dough is well combined, wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about an hour. This step is essential for achieving flaky layers.

5. Forming the layers: After the dough has cooled, divide it into three equal parts. On a floured surface, roll out each part into a thin sheet, making sure it is the size of your baking tray.

6. Assembling the pie: Line a baking tray with parchment paper. Place the first sheet of dough, followed by half of the apple mixture. Add the second sheet, then the remaining apples, and finish with the last sheet. Make sure the edges of the sheets are well sealed to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius (low heat) and bake the pie for 35-45 minutes, or until it becomes lightly golden on top. Once baked, let it cool in the tray for a few minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely.

8. Serving: Cut the pie into generous squares. You can sprinkle it with a little powdered sugar for an elegant look or serve it with a scoop of cream or ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Useful tips and variations

- Types of apples: Use apples that hold up well when cooked, such as Granny Smith or Golden Delicious, for a pleasant contrast between sweetness and acidity.
- Flavor additions: You can experiment by adding chopped nuts or raisins to the apple mixture for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
- Serving variations: For a special dessert, serve the pie with caramel sauce or melted chocolate, which will add an extra layer of delight.

Nutritional benefits

Apples are rich in fiber and vitamins, with a low calorie content, while butter and eggs provide a source of healthy fats and proteins. This dessert can be a healthier choice compared to many other sweets, especially if served with cream or natural yogurt to add a touch of freshness.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other fruits? Yes! You can use pears or peaches, but make sure to adjust the amount of sugar based on their sweetness.
2. How can I store the pie? You can keep it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days, but it is also delicious at room temperature.
3. Can I freeze the pie? Yes, the apple pie can be frozen, but it is recommended to cut it into portions before freezing. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to start cooking! The apple pie will surely become your favorite, and each bite will bring joy and satisfaction. Enjoy!