Apple pie like mom used to make

Apple pie like mom used to make

Who doesn't nostalgically remember the irresistible aroma of freshly baked apple pie? This recipe, inherited from my mother, is more than just a dessert; it's a family story, a piece of childhood, a moment of happiness brought into every home. With thin and tender layers, this pie is perfect for any occasion, whether you want to impress guests or simply crave a delicious treat for yourself and your loved ones. I invite you to discover step by step how to prepare this delicacy.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 250 g butter or margarine, at room temperature
- ~300 g flour (may vary depending on humidity)
- 1 egg
- 1 pinch of salt
- 1/2 cup cold water
- 1 teaspoon vinegar (to help tenderize the dough)

For the filling:
- 1 kg of apples (preferably tart apples for a balanced taste)
- 4-5 tablespoons sugar (adjust according to the sweetness of the apples)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1-2 tablespoons semolina (to absorb excess liquid)

Preparing the dough

1. Start by preparing the dough. In a large bowl, mix the egg with the softened butter and a pinch of salt until you achieve a smooth cream. You can use a mixer or a spatula, depending on your preference. The butter should be soft but not melted, so you can incorporate air into the mixture.

2. Add the cold water and vinegar to the butter and egg mixture. These wet ingredients will help form an elastic dough.

3. Gradually add the flour while continuously mixing. Start with 250 g and keep adding until the dough becomes elastic and non-sticky. If you notice that the dough is too soft, feel free to add a little more flour.

4. Once you have a homogeneous dough, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it rest for 20 minutes. This step is essential to allow the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

Preparing the filling

5. In the meantime, take care of the apples. Peel the apples and grate them on a large grater. This will release their juice, giving the pie a special aroma.

6. Place the apples in a pot over medium heat, add the sugar, and sauté them until the liquid reduces significantly. This process will intensify the flavors and make the filling more concentrated. Don't forget to stir occasionally to prevent the apples from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

7. Once the liquid has reduced, turn off the heat and add the cinnamon. This classic spice not only provides a warm and comforting aroma but also perfectly complements the taste of the apples. Let the filling cool slightly before using it.

Assembling the pie

8. Divide the dough into two equal parts. On a floured work surface, roll out the first part of the dough into a rectangular sheet large enough to cover your baking dish (25/35 cm is ideal). Make sure the sheet is thin to achieve that flaky texture.

9. Carefully place the sheet into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle a little semolina on the bottom of the sheet to absorb any liquid released by the apples.

10. Pour the apple filling over the dough sheet, spreading it evenly.

11. Roll out the second part of the dough, carefully place it over the apples, and use a fork to make a few punctures. These perforations will allow steam to escape and prevent the pie from puffing up during baking.

Baking the pie

12. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Once the oven is ready, place the pie in to bake. Leave it in the oven for 40-45 minutes or until it is beautifully golden on top. The aromas that will spread throughout the house are simply unforgettable!

13. After the pie is baked, let it cool slightly in the dish. Then, carefully detach the pie from the edges and transfer it to a cake stand.

14. Before serving, dust the pie with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. This pie is not overly sweet, and the flavors of the apples and cinnamon will shine through perfectly.

Helpful tips for a perfect result

- Use tart apples to achieve a pleasant contrast between sweet and sour. Apples like Granny Smith or Jonagold are excellent for pies.
- If you want to enrich the flavor, you can add a tablespoon of lemon juice to the filling for a fresher taste.
- If you like a crunchier texture, you can sprinkle a little brown sugar over the top dough sheet before placing it in the oven.
- Apple pie pairs excellently with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce for a decadent dessert.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This apple pie has approximately 250 calories per serving, depending on the amount of sugar used and the type of butter or margarine. Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, beneficial for digestion and the immune system. The combination of apples and cinnamon not only provides a delicious taste but also has anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned apples?
Yes, you can use canned apples, but make sure to drain them well to avoid making the filling too watery.

2. How can I keep the pie fresh?
The pie can be kept at room temperature for 2-3 days, covered with a clean towel. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it.

3. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Of course! You can experiment with pears, peaches, or even berries for a different and delicious variation.

I wish you much success in preparing this apple pie like mom used to make! Don't forget to share the joy with your loved ones, because nothing is more enjoyable than savoring a slice of warm pie with those you love. Enjoy!