Apple pie

Apple pie – a recipe with history and the taste of childhood

Apple pie is more than just a simple dessert; it is a flavorful memory that connects us to the beautiful moments spent in childhood, when our mother made holidays sweeter with each slice. This aromatic pie, with a tender crust and juicy apple filling, is a perfect choice for any occasion, from coffee with friends to a festive meal. Together, we will explore how to prepare this delight step by step, bringing tradition and nostalgia to life.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 3 egg yolks
- 4 tablespoons of sour cream
- 4 tablespoons of milk
- 2 tablespoons of lard (or butter, if you prefer)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- Grated lemon or orange zest (for an extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder mixed with 1 teaspoon of vinegar
- Flour as needed (about 400 g)

For the filling:
- 1.5 kg of apples (preferably tart apples like green ones)
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 100 g of sugar

Preparation

1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, add the 3 egg yolks, sour cream, milk, lard, and sugar. Mix the ingredients well with a whisk or spatula until you obtain a homogeneous mixture. Add the grated lemon or orange zest, which will bring a delicious aroma to the pie.

2. Adding the flour:
Sprinkle the baking powder mixed with vinegar over the mixture and start incorporating the flour gradually until you obtain a dough that is firm yet soft. It is important not to add too much flour, as the pie will become dry. The dough should be slightly sticky but pull away from the sides of the bowl.

3. Once the dough is ready, divide it into two equal parts, form balls, and let them rest for 10-15 minutes, covered with a damp towel. This step will help the dough become easier to roll out.

4. Preparing the filling:
In the meantime, peel the apples and grate them on a large grater. Add the sugar and cinnamon, mixing well. It is recommended to squeeze out some of the juice from the apples to avoid a filling that is too wet, which could make the dough soggy.

5. Assembling the pie:
On a floured surface, roll out the first sheet of dough, ensuring an even thickness. Place the sheet in a baking dish lined with parchment paper, then sprinkle a thin layer of semolina. This will absorb the excess moisture from the apples and prevent the dough from getting soggy.

6. Adding the apples:
Evenly distribute the grated apples over the semolina layer, then sprinkle more semolina on top. This step is essential for keeping the pie tender and delicious.

7. Finishing with the second sheet:
Roll out the second sheet of dough and cover the pie with it, making sure to seal the edges well. You can use a fork to create a decorative pattern on the edges, giving the pie a rustic look.

8. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the baking dish inside. Bake the pie for about 40 minutes or until it turns golden and beautifully browned. Check occasionally to ensure it doesn't burn.

9. Finalizing:
Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the dish it was baked in. Before serving, sprinkle powdered sugar and cinnamon on top for an inviting appearance.

Serving suggestions

This apple pie is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it plain or with a dollop of sour cream or vanilla ice cream for a perfect contrast between warm and cold. Also, a fragrant tea or a well-made coffee pairs wonderfully with it.

Nutritional notes

Each serving of apple pie contains about 250 calories, providing a combination of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and fiber, thanks to the apples. Apples are rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber, thus contributing to a healthy diet.

Possible variations

- Apple pie with nuts: Add some chopped nuts to the filling for a crunchy texture.
- Apple pie with raisins: Incorporate some raisins into the filling for a sweet-tart flavor.
- Apple pie with caramel: A layer of caramel sauce on top of the apples will transform the dessert into an unforgettable experience.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use other fruits? Of course! The pie can also be made with peaches, plums, or cherries. Be sure to adjust the amount of sugar according to the sweetness of the fruits.
- How can I store the pie? The apple pie keeps well at room temperature for 2-3 days but can be refrigerated to extend its freshness.

In conclusion, apple pie is a quick and simple dessert, yet full of flavor and nostalgia. Imagine how wonderful your home will smell while it bakes! Don't hesitate to try this recipe and share it with your loved ones. This way, you will create new unforgettable memories around the table. Enjoy!