Apple pie in fine pastry

Apple Pie in Fine Pastry - A Delicacy for the Soul

Apple pie is a classic recipe, known and loved by many, and it is undoubtedly a symbol of home comfort. This recipe combines the sweet flavors of apples with the fine texture of the pastry, resulting in a dessert that not only delights the taste buds but also evokes nostalgia through memories of family meals. Moreover, with a little preparation trick, you can save precious time without compromising on taste. Let's see how we can achieve the perfect apple pie!

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Baking time: 45 minutes
- Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
- Number of servings: 8

Ingredients

For the pastry:
- 2.5 cups of flour
- 1 cup of cold butter, cubed
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup of warm water
- 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice

For the filling:
- 1.5 kg of apples (peeled and cored)
- 50 g of butter
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Sugar (to taste)
- Grated lemon zest (optional)
- Cinnamon or vanilla sugar (to taste)

Preparation Technique

Step 1: Preparing the Pastry
1. Start by mixing the flour, salt, and cold butter in a large bowl. Use a pastry blender or two forks to combine the ingredients until the mixture resembles fine crumbs.
2. Gradually add the warm water and apple cider vinegar, mixing with a spatula until you obtain a smooth and non-sticky dough. It is important not to over-knead, just enough to combine the ingredients.
3. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This step will help firm up the butter and give the dough a soft and flaky texture.

Step 2: Preparing the Filling
1. Meanwhile, cut the apples into small cubes. This step is essential, as smaller cubes will soften faster, saving time and effort.
2. Place the apples in a saucepan along with the butter and drizzle with lemon juice. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the apples become soft, about 10-15 minutes.
3. Add sugar, grated lemon zest, and cinnamon (or vanilla sugar) to taste. Mix well, and if necessary, gently mash the apples with a wooden spoon or a masher. Let the mixture cool.

Step 3: Assembling the Pie
1. Preheat the oven to 180°C.
2. On a floured surface, roll out two thin sheets of pastry. Make sure the sheets are large enough to cover the bottom and top of the pie dish.
3. Place the first sheet of pastry in the baking pan, ensuring it covers the edges. Add the apple filling, spreading it evenly.
4. Cover with the second sheet of pastry. If desired, you can cut a few slits on top to allow steam to escape.
5. Bake the pie for 40-45 minutes or until golden and crispy. Finally, dust with powdered sugar while warm.

Practical Tips for a Perfect Result
- Choosing Apples: Use apples that hold up well when cooked, such as Granny Smith or Golden Delicious, for a sweet-tart filling.
- The Perfect Pastry: If you want an even crispier texture, let the dough rest in the refrigerator for a few hours or even overnight.
- Serving: Apple pie is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it with vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream for a wonderful contrast of textures.

Possible Variations
- Apple and Pear Pie: Try combining apples with pears for a more complex flavor.
- Adding Nuts: Add chopped nuts to the filling for a crunchy texture.
- Cinnamon and Nutmeg: Experiment with other spices, such as nutmeg or ginger, for a richer aroma.

Nutrition and Calories
This apple pie has approximately 320 calories per serving but is also a good source of fiber from the apples, benefiting digestion. Additionally, the apple filling contains antioxidants, which are good for health.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen apples? Yes, but it is recommended to thaw and drain them before cooking.
- How can I make the dough easier to handle? Use high-quality flour and ensure the butter is cold but not frozen.
- Can I substitute butter? You can use lactose-free margarine for a vegan option.

The apple pie in fine pastry is a recipe that will delight your family and friends, bringing a touch of warmth and comfort in every slice. Experiment, adapt it to your tastes, and don't forget to enjoy this moment of culinary creation! Bon Appétit!