Apple pie

Apple pie with tender dough is a delicacy that combines the classic flavors of apples with a soft texture reminiscent of sponge cake. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a sense of nostalgia in every bite. It is a perfect choice for a tea snack, a quick dessert, or even to impress guests at a festive meal.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the base:
- 4 fresh eggs
- 12 tablespoons of sugar
- 12 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower or canola)
- 200 g of plain yogurt (you can also use Greek yogurt for a creamier texture)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder (about 10 g)
- Spices to taste: grated lemon zest, vanilla (you can use vanilla extract or vanilla sugar)
- 2 cups of sifted flour (about 300 g)

For the filling:
- 1 kg of grated apples
- 5 tablespoons of sugar (adjust to taste, depending on the sweetness of the apples)
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon (optional, but recommended for added flavor)

The story of apple pie

Apple pie is a recipe that has crossed generations, being prepared in numerous variations in kitchens around the world. Apples, an accessible and tasty ingredient, have been used over time in both sweet and savory dishes, and their combination with a soft dough is a perfect example of culinary harmony. This pie will not only remind you of family meals but will also add a touch of warmth and comfort to your everyday life.

Step by step: How to prepare apple pie

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the ingredients. Make sure the eggs and yogurt are at room temperature for an even mix. The apples should be peeled and grated, and if you choose to warm them, you will need a non-stick pan.

2. Preparing the filling: In a pan, add the grated apples along with the 5 tablespoons of sugar. Cook them over low heat, stirring constantly, until the apple juice reduces and the mixture thickens. This will take about 10-15 minutes. Finally, add the cinnamon. Let the filling cool at room temperature.

3. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until frothy. Add the oil and yogurt, mixing well to incorporate all the ingredients. In another bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder and spices. Gradually add the flour mixture to the egg mixture, stirring constantly. The dough consistency should be similar to that of a sponge cake, soft and creamy. If needed, you can add an extra tablespoon of flour to achieve the desired texture.

4. Baking the pie: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Prepare a baking tray, greased with butter or lined with baking paper. Pour half of the dough into the tray and level it evenly. Place the tray in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the dough sets on top but does not turn golden.

5. Adding the filling: Remove the tray from the oven and add the apple filling, spreading it evenly over the entire surface. Then pour the remaining dough, making sure to gently spread it to the edges. It is crucial not to use a filling that is too watery, as this will soak the dough underneath. It is important that the filling is cooled and not hot.

6. Finalizing the baking: Put the tray back in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the pie turns golden on top. Once baked, turn off the oven and let the pie cool inside for 2-3 minutes.

7. Serving: After it has completely cooled, remove the pie from the tray and place it on a serving platter. Cut it into portions and generously dust with vanilla sugar for an attractive appearance.

Serving suggestions and variations

This apple pie pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sour cream. You can also try serving it with a caramel sauce for an extra sweetness. Another delicious variation would be to replace the apples with cheese, creating a savory pie, perfect for a quick snack.

Tips and useful advice

- Apple selection: Choose sweet and aromatic apples, such as Granny Smith or Golden Delicious, to achieve a pleasant contrast of flavors.
- Dough texture: If you want a less dense dough, you can replace part of the oil with melted butter for a richer taste.
- Storing the pie: This pie keeps well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, and can be enjoyed for 3-4 days.
- Nutrition: A serving of this pie contains approximately 250 calories, making it a balanced choice for a dessert.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other fruits? Yes, you can replace the apples with pears, sour cherries, or peaches, depending on your preferences.
- How can I make the pie gluten-free? You can use gluten-free flour, being careful to also add a binding agent, such as xanthan gum.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? For a vegan version, replace the eggs with a mixture of flaxseeds and water or a commercial egg substitute and use plant-based yogurt.

This apple pie is more than just a simple dessert; it is a culinary experience that will bring smiles and beautiful memories. So gather your ingredients, prepare your kitchen, and let yourself be carried away by the delicious aromas of this classic dessert!