Apple pie

Delicious Caramelized Apple Pie - A Classic Recipe with a Touch of Nostalgia

I invite you to discover a recipe for apple pie that will remind you of your childhood, of the times spent in the kitchen with your grandparents. This pie is not just a quick dessert; it's an explosion of flavors and textures, featuring a flaky crust and a fragrant filling of caramelized apples. The preparation time is about 30 minutes, with a baking time of 40 minutes, making this recipe an excellent choice for any occasion. In total, you will have a delicious serving for 8 people.

Ingredients

For the crust:
- 200 g butter, softened and at room temperature
- 5 tablespoons of sugar
- A pinch of salt
- 2 egg yolks
- 1 cup (250 ml) of sparkling water
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 1 tablespoon of vinegar
- 500 g flour

For the filling:
- 1 kg apples, preferably sweet-tart varieties
- 100 g sugar (you can adjust depending on the sweetness of the apples)
- Cinnamon to taste (we recommend 1-2 tablespoons)

Preparation Time

- Preparation: 30 minutes
- Baking: 40 minutes
- Total: 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Servings: 8

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Dough

1. In a large bowl, mix the flour with the salt and sugar. It's important to combine them well for an even flavor in the dough.
2. Create a well in the center of the flour mixture. Add the baking powder dissolved in vinegar, the prepared egg yolks, and the softened butter. These ingredients will add richness to the dough.
3. Start mixing with a spatula or your hands, gradually adding the sparkling water. The sparkling water will help achieve a light and flaky dough.
4. Knead the dough until it becomes elastic and smooth. Don't rush; it's important to take your time with this step for a perfect result.
5. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This will allow the gluten to relax, resulting in a dough that's easier to roll out.

Step 2: Preparing the Apple Filling

1. Meanwhile, take care of the apples. Peel them, remove the seeds, and grate them. This method will help distribute the apples evenly in the pie.
2. In a skillet, add the grated apples along with the sugar and cinnamon. Sauté the mixture over medium heat for 5-10 minutes until the apples soften slightly and the sugar caramelizes.
3. Allow the filling to cool completely before adding it to the pie. This will prevent the dough from becoming soggy.

Step 3: Assembling the Pie

1. Once the dough has chilled, divide it into two equal parts. It's important that both parts are the same size to ensure an even pie.
2. On a floured surface, roll out the first part of the dough into a rectangular sheet. Make sure the sheet is large enough to cover the baking pan.
3. Grease the pan with butter and sprinkle 1 tablespoon of semolina to absorb excess moisture from the apples.
4. Place the first sheet of dough in the pan and evenly add the apple filling. We recommend spreading it with a spatula for an even layer.
5. Roll out the second sheet of dough and place it on top of the apples. Use a fork to poke holes in the top sheet, allowing steam to escape during baking. This step will prevent the dough from puffing up.

Step 4: Baking

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). A temperature that's too high will dry out the dough, while one that's too low won't bake evenly.
2. Bake the pie for 30-40 minutes or until it turns golden and crispy. Check occasionally to ensure it doesn't burn.
3. Once baked, let it cool slightly before slicing. The aroma of caramelized apples will fill the room, and with each slice of this pie, you'll bring a touch of joy to your loved ones' hearts.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

This apple pie is delicious served warm, but also great at room temperature. You can add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream alongside a slice of pie for a truly special dessert. Additionally, feel free to experiment with the filling by adding chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture and flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamins, especially vitamin C. Moreover, the sugar in apples is natural, making this pie a healthier option compared to other desserts rich in processed sugar. The butter adds healthy fats, and the combination of ingredients will provide you with energy and satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits for the filling?
Yes, you can substitute apples with pears, cherries, or peaches, adjusting the sugar amount based on their sweetness.

2. How can I store the pie?
The pie keeps well at room temperature for 2-3 days, but you can also freeze it. Make sure it's well covered to prevent drying out.

3. What drinks pair well with this pie?
A cup of apple tea or a glass of warm cider will perfectly complement the flavor of this pie.

4. Why is it important to let the filling cool?
Warm filling can make the dough soggy, and cooling allows for a better texture in the pie.

Now that you have all the necessary details, you're ready to start cooking! The caramelized apple pie is not just a dessert; it's an experience filled with warmth and memories. So put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!