Apple pie

Apple Pie - Classic and Delicious Recipe

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 10 servings

Introduction

Who doesn't love an apple pie? This apple pie recipe is a true delight, a classic dessert that reminds us of days spent in the kitchen with grandparents. The apple pie is perfect for a special occasion or to add a touch of comfort on ordinary days. The aroma of caramelized apples, combined with cinnamon, will fill the house with enticing scents and bring smiles to the faces of loved ones. Plus, it is a simple and quick recipe, ideal even for beginners.

Necessary ingredients

- 500 grams of flour
- 200 grams of butter or margarine (preferably butter for a richer taste)
- 200 grams of sugar (divided into two: 5 tablespoons for the filling and the rest for the dough)
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 tablespoon baking soda or baking powder mixed with lemon juice
- Zest of one lemon (enhances the flavor)
- Zest of one orange (adds a touch of freshness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or vanilla sugar)
- 1 tablespoon sour cream or a little milk (for a creamier dough)
- 1 kg apples (tart apples are ideal)
- 5 tablespoons sugar (for the filling)
- 4 tablespoons ground cinnamon (for flavor)

Preparing the pie

1. Preparing the apples: Start by peeling the apples. Cut them into quarters, remove the seeds, and to achieve a uniform consistency, grate them on a large grater or use a mixer. This step is essential, as grated apples will cook evenly and absorb the flavors of sugar and cinnamon.

2. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, rub the flour with the softened butter (ideally at room temperature) until you achieve a mixture similar to wet sand. Add the remaining ingredients: sugar, eggs, baking soda mixed with lemon juice, lemon and orange zest, vanilla extract, and sour cream or milk. Knead everything well until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.

3. Dividing the dough: After obtaining a fine dough, divide it into two equal parts. Cover them with plastic wrap and let them rest in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. This will help the dough become easier to roll out.

4. Assembling the pie: Preheat the oven to 160 degrees Celsius. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the first piece of dough into a thin sheet, large enough to cover the bottom of a 25x35 cm tray. Place the sheet in the tray, making sure to cover the edges as well.

5. Filling: Place the grated apples in a bowl and squeeze them well to remove excess juice. Mix the apples with 5 tablespoons of sugar and 4 tablespoons of cinnamon, then pour the apple filling over the first sheet of dough.

6. The second sheet: Roll out the second piece of dough and place it over the apple filling. Prick the sheet with a fork here and there to allow steam to escape during baking.

7. Brushing with egg white: Beat the egg white from one egg and brush it evenly over the surface of the pie. This will give your pie a golden and shiny color.

8. Baking: Place the tray in the preheated oven and bake the pie for about 45 minutes or until it becomes golden and crispy. You will know it is ready when the sweet smell of apples and cinnamon spreads throughout the house.

9. Cooling and serving: Once baked, let the pie cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then cut it into portions according to your desires. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of cream.

Practical tips for a perfect result

- Choose tart apples, such as Granny Smith, to balance the sweetness of the sugar.
- You can add chopped nuts or hazelnuts to the filling for extra texture and flavor.
- If you prefer a more complex flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger to the apple mixture.
- Make sure the butter is soft, not melted, to achieve a flaky dough.

Nutritional benefits

This pie is a good source of fiber due to the apples, which contribute to digestive health. Additionally, cinnamon adds not only flavor but also antioxidant properties. Depending on the servings, a slice of pie can contain approximately 300-400 calories, but it is important to enjoy it in moderation.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes! You can experiment with pears, peaches, or even berries.

2. How can I store the pie?
You can store it in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for a few days. You can warm it slightly before serving to restore its aroma.

3. Is it possible to make the dough gluten-free?
Yes! You can use gluten-free flour, but make sure to follow the specific proportion instructions.

Ideal combinations

This apple pie pairs perfectly with a cup of hot tea or aromatic coffee. Additionally, vanilla ice cream or fluffy whipped cream will perfectly complement each slice.

In conclusion, apple pie is not just a dessert, but an experience that brings people together. With every bite, you can feel the love, memories, and tradition. Whether you enjoy it with loved ones or prepare it alone, this dessert will always bring joy to everyone's hearts. Enjoy your meal!