Apple pie

The invitation to a culinary journey begins! Today, we will explore a delicious apple spiral pie recipe, a dessert that combines the classic flavors of caramelized apples with fine textures and a crispy crust. This recipe is perfect for any occasion: a gathering with friends, a family meal, or simply a treat on cool autumn evenings.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 300 g flour
- 100 g butter (soft, at room temperature)
- 30 g sugar
- 120 g sour cream
- 1 egg and 1 yolk
- 1 tablespoon vinegar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- A pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 6 apples (preferably sweet-tart varieties like Granny Smith or Fuji)
- 4 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 20 g nuts (optional, coarsely chopped)

A bit of history:
The apple spiral pie is a dessert that has crossed generations, often associated with family memories and special moments spent around the table. This recipe is inspired by baking traditions, where apples, an easily available ingredient, were used to add sweetness and flavor to seasonal desserts. Whether enjoyed warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or cold with a cup of tea, the apple spiral pie will bring a smile to your face and to your loved ones.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the dough: Start by taking a large bowl and adding the soft butter. Use a mixer or spatula to turn it into a fluffy cream. Add the sour cream, egg, yolk, and vinegar. Continue mixing until the ingredients are well integrated.

2. Mixing the dry ingredients: In another bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt. This is an important technique to ensure an even distribution of the leavening agent in the dough. Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet composition, mixing gently until you obtain a smooth dough.

3. Chilling the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for about an hour. This step is essential to give the dough a perfect texture, making it easier to handle.

4. Preparing the filling: Meanwhile, take the apples and grate them on a large grater. It is recommended to choose apples with thin skin, as they will cook faster. Squeeze them well to remove excess liquid, then add the brown sugar and cinnamon. Mix well and place the composition in a pot over medium heat. Add the nuts for extra texture and flavor. Let the apples caramelize until they become soft, then let them cool completely.

5. Forming the spiral pie: Take the dough out of the refrigerator and place it on a well-floured work surface. Roll it out with a rolling pin into a rectangle about 40 cm long and 20 cm wide. Spread the apple puree evenly over the entire surface of the dough. This is where you can also add some raisins or dried fruits to vary the taste.

6. Rolling the dough: Start rolling the dough as tightly as possible, forming a log. Once finished, grab one end of the log and twist it inward, giving it a snail shape. This is an essential detail to achieve that rustic and appealing look.

7. Baking: Place the dough snail in a baking tray lined with parchment paper, then place the tray in a preheated oven at 190 degrees Celsius. Bake the spiral pie for 45-50 minutes, until it becomes golden and crispy. The aromas will blend and fill the entire kitchen, preparing you for a true delight.

8. Cooling and serving: Remove the spiral pie from the oven and let it cool in the tray for 20 minutes. This step is important to allow the filling to settle and not to melt. Once completely cooled, cut the spiral pie into slices and enjoy it plain or with a bit of sour cream on top.

Practical tips:
- You can experiment with different types of apples to find the combination you like best.
- If you want to enrich the flavor, add a few drops of vanilla extract to the apple filling.
- Served warm, the apple spiral pie pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a caramel sauce.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits? Yes, you can replace the apples with pears or peaches, but make sure to adjust the sugar according to the sweetness of the chosen fruits.
2. How can I store the spiral pie? You can keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, or in the refrigerator for a week.
3. Is it possible to freeze the spiral pie? Yes, you can freeze it before baking. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and parchment paper.

Nutritional benefits:
The apple spiral pie is a good source of fiber due to the apples, and the nuts provide a healthy amount of unsaturated fats. Additionally, brown sugar is a healthier alternative to white sugar, offering a richer taste and a hint of molasses.

Serving suggestions:
I recommend serving the spiral pie with a caramel sauce or a drizzle of maple syrup. Also, a combination with herbal tea or a sweet white wine can transform the dessert into a gourmet experience.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! The apple spiral pie will surely bring a touch of joy to your life and that of your loved ones. Enjoy!