Apple Pie

Apple Pie – A Homemade Delight

If you've ever wanted to bring a piece of childhood to your plate, apple pie is the perfect choice. This delicious dessert, with its enticing aromas and crunchy textures, not only delights the taste buds but also brings a sense of comfort and nostalgia. Whether you enjoy it with loved ones or give it as a gift, this recipe is simple and full of flavor.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Servings: 12

Ingredients:

*For the dough:*
- 2 cups of flour
- 1 cup of sugar
- 200 g of margarine or butter (preferably at room temperature)
- 1 egg
- 15 g of fresh yeast
- 1/2 cup of milk
- Sour cream (optional, to adjust consistency)
- A pinch of salt

*For the apple filling:*
- 1.5 kg of apples (preferably tart apples)
- 5 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 large pear (optional)

*For decoration:*
- 50 g of sliced almonds
- 1 egg (for brushing the pie)
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (for extra sweetness)

A Bit of History:

Apple pie is a dessert that has been cherished by generations, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Apples, a staple ingredient, often symbolize abundance and prosperity. This pie is not just a delicious treat but also a wonderful way to use seasonal apples, transforming them into something truly special.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt. Mix the dry ingredients well. Add the margarine or butter cut into cubes and rub with your fingers until you achieve a texture similar to wet sand. This step is essential for obtaining a flaky dough.

2. Activating the Yeast:
In a small container, heat 1/2 cup of milk. Add the yeast and a teaspoon of sugar, stirring gently. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy. This step is crucial for ensuring proper rising of the dough.

3. Forming the Dough:
Add the egg and the yeast mixture to the bowl with flour. Knead the ingredients until the dough becomes elastic. If it is too dry, add sour cream, one tablespoon at a time, until you achieve a pleasant consistency. Cover the dough with a clean towel and let it rise for 30 minutes in a warm place.

4. Preparing the Apples:
While the dough is rising, peel the apples and pear (if using). Grate the apples into a bowl, then squeeze them gently to remove excess juice. Mix the apples with 5 tablespoons of sugar to sweeten them and let them release their flavor.

5. Assembling the Pie:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. Once the dough has risen, divide it into two equal parts. Take the first part and roll it out, then place it in a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Evenly distribute the grated apples over the dough base. If desired, add thin slices of pear on top of the apples.

6. Creating the Lattice:
Take the second part of the dough, roll it out, and cut it into thin strips. Lay these strips in a crisscross pattern over the apples, forming a lattice. This detail not only gives the pie a beautiful appearance but also allows steam to escape during baking.

7. Baking the Pie:
In a small bowl, beat an egg with a tablespoon of sugar and brush it over the pie. Sprinkle the sliced almonds for added texture and flavor. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 minutes, or until the pie is golden and well-baked.

8. Cooling and Serving:
After baking, let the pie cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a rack to cool completely. You can serve it plain or with a scoop of sour cream or vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Helpful Tips:

- Choosing Apples: Opt for tart apples, such as green ones, to balance the sweetness of the sugar.
- Variations: You can add cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple mixture for extra flavor. Also, try adding chopped nuts for added crunch.
- Storage: The pie keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days. You can gently reheat it in the oven to restore its crunchy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use other fruits? Absolutely! This recipe is versatile and can be adapted with other fruits like peaches or plums.
- How can I make the dough less greasy? You can replace the margarine with coconut oil or almond butter for a healthier option.
- Is it suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe using vegetable oil instead of margarine and an egg substitute (for example, a mixture of flaxseeds and water).

Apple pie is not just a dessert; it is a culinary experience filled with tradition and love. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a moment of indulgence, the result will always be a success. Savor each bite and let yourself be carried away by the nostalgic flavors and aromas!