Apple pie

Apple pie: a classic and love-filled recipe

Apple pie is more than just a simple dessert; it is a story of memories, of moments spent with loved ones. Every time I make this pie, I think of my friend Tanya and how much she loves apples. In every slice, there is a piece of our soul, and its enticing aroma brings smiles to the faces of those who savor it. So, I invite you to discover with me how to prepare this delicious apple pie, perfect for any occasion!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Necessary ingredients:

- 4-5 medium apples (preferably sweet and fragrant, such as Golden or Fuji)
- 1 store-bought pie crust (choose a quality option without additives)
- 200 g apple compote (or apple puree, ideal for an intense flavor)
- 40 g butter (for a rich taste and crispy texture)
- 50 g sugar (or more, depending on how sweet the apples are)
- A pinch of cinnamon (optional, for an extra flavor)

Step by step in preparing the apple pie:

1. Preparing the apples: Start by peeling the apples and removing the cores. Use a sharp knife to slice them thinly. This step is essential for the apples to cook evenly and integrate perfectly into the pie. If desired, you can sprinkle the slices with a little lemon juice to prevent oxidation and keep their beautiful color.

2. Preparing the pan: Choose a pie dish about 23 cm in diameter. Grease the inside well with butter, ensuring it is evenly coated to prevent the pie from sticking.

3. Assembling the pie: Place the pie crust in the dish, making sure to cover the edges well. Use a fork to make a few holes in the dough to allow steam to escape during baking. This will help achieve a crispy crust.

4. Adding the compote: Spread the apple compote (or puree) evenly over the pie crust. This will add moisture and a sweet-tart flavor, perfect for complementing the apple slices.

5. Arranging the apples: Neatly arrange the apple slices over the compote, forming a beautiful pattern. You can opt for a spiral arrangement or concentric circles, depending on your creativity.

6. Melting the butter: Melt the 40 g of butter and, using a pastry brush, evenly coat the apple slices. This will add extra flavor and help the apples caramelize beautifully during baking.

7. Baking the pie: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. When the edges of the pie become golden, it’s time to add the sugar.

8. Finishing the baking: After 25 minutes, sprinkle the sugar over the apples and leave the pie in the oven for another 5 minutes, until the sugar caramelizes slightly and forms a golden crust.

9. Cooling and serving: Once the pie is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will allow the compote to stabilize a bit, making it easier to cut the slices.

Serving suggestions:
Apple pie is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. The combination of warm and cold is simply irresistible!

Nutritional benefits:
Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and antioxidants. They contribute to healthy digestion and strengthen the immune system. Additionally, the pie is a healthier choice compared to other calorie-rich desserts due to its fruit content.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of apples?
Of course! You can experiment with different apple varieties, each offering a distinct flavor and texture. For example, tart apples like Granny Smith add an interesting note.

2. Is it possible to make the pie without sugar?
Yes! You can replace sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. However, adjust the amount according to your desired sweetness.

3. Can I freeze the pie?
The apple pie can be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to maintain optimal taste and texture. If you freeze it, make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

Possible variations:
- Add chopped nuts or almonds on top of the apples for extra crunch.
- Experiment with spices like nutmeg or cardamom to give a different flavor.
- You can add a crumble crust on top for an interesting texture.

In conclusion, apple pie is a dessert that brings joy and warmth to any home. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to indulge yourself, this simple and delicious recipe will surely be appreciated. So, grab the ingredients and start your culinary adventure, bringing a touch of love to every slice!