Apple pie

Apple Pie: A Rustic Delight Made with Fresh Apples

If you're looking for a quick dessert recipe that brings a touch of nostalgia and fresh flavor to your kitchen, look no further! This apple pie, made with a simple puff pastry, is perfect for celebrating the harvest from your garden or simply indulging in a sweet and aromatic treat. Additionally, it's a versatile recipe that allows for delicious variations, such as cheese or even spinach fillings for a savory option. I invite you to discover the steps to achieve a perfect pie that will impress every time!

Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 100 g butter (at room temperature for a flakier texture)
- 150 g lard (helps achieve a perfect layered crust)
- 600 g flour (use high-quality flour for the best results)
- 250 ml water (cold, to activate the gluten)
- 1 teaspoon vinegar (helps tenderize the dough)
- 1 tablespoon sugar (for a slightly sweet taste)
- a pinch of salt (to balance the flavors)

For the filling:
- 1.5 kg peeled apples (choose sweet-tart apples for a perfect contrast)
- 2-3 tablespoons sugar (adjust the amount based on the sweetness of the apples)
- 1 teaspoon anise or cinnamon powder (for a warm and comforting aroma)
- 50 g butter (for a rich flavor)
- juice from half a lemon (prevents the apples from browning and adds a note of freshness)

Extra:
- 1 egg for brushing (for a golden and shiny crust)
- flour for dusting the work surface

Preparation

1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, butter, and lard at room temperature. Make sure the butter is well incorporated into the flour for an even texture. In another container, mix the water with sugar, salt, and vinegar until the sugar dissolves completely. Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and knead the dough until it becomes firm and non-sticky. Avoid over-kneading to prevent excessive gluten development.

2. Chilling the dough:
Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1-2 hours or, preferably, overnight. This step will help the dough firm up and make it easier to roll out.

3. Preparing the filling:
Wash the apples and peel and core them. If the apples are healthy, you can leave the skin on for added texture. In a saucepan, melt 50 g of butter over medium heat, then add the diced apples, sugar, anise or cinnamon powder, and lemon juice. Sauté the apples for about 10-15 minutes until they become slightly soft, then let them cool.

4. Assembling the pie:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Divide the dough into two equal parts. Start by rolling out the first half on a floured surface until you get a thin sheet. Place the dough sheet in a baking dish (28x40 cm), making sure to cover the edges well. Prick the dough all over with a fork to prevent it from puffing up during baking.

5. Adding the filling:
Place the sautéed and cooled apples over the dough in the baking dish, distributing them evenly. Roll out the other half of the dough and place it over the apples. Use a beaten egg to brush the surface of the pie, giving it a golden and appetizing crust. Prick again with a fork to allow steam to escape.

6. Baking:
Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake the pie for 30-40 minutes or until the crust is beautifully golden. The aroma that will spread throughout the house will make you eager to serve it!

7. Serving:
Once baked, let the pie cool slightly. You can choose to dust it with powdered sugar for an elegant look or, if you prefer a less sweet option, serve it plain alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sour cream. It's a perfect dessert after a hearty meal, but also an excellent companion for a quiet afternoon.

Tips and useful advice:
- Use apples of different varieties to achieve a filling with a complexity of flavors.
- You can add nuts or raisins to the filling for added texture and flavor.
- If you want a less sweet pie, adjust the amount of sugar in the filling.
- The dough can be prepared a few days in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer.

Nutritional benefits:
This apple pie offers a good supply of fiber due to the apples, which contribute to digestion. Apples are also rich in vitamins A and C, important for skin and immune system health. Additionally, using butter and lard in the dough adds a source of healthy fats, essential for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other fruits instead of apples? Yes, this recipe is versatile, and you can experiment with pears, peaches, or even berries.
- How do I store the pie? You can keep it in a closed container at room temperature for a few days, or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
- Is it possible to freeze the pie? Yes, you can freeze the pie before baking it. Make sure to wrap it well to prevent freezer burn.

So get ready to impress your family and friends with this delicious apple pie! Whether you serve it warm or cold, with a scoop of ice cream or plain, each slice will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!