Apple pie (vegan)

Mother's Lent Pie with Apples: A Simple and Healthy Delight

Who doesn't adore the inviting aroma of baked apples mixed with warm cinnamon? My mother's lent pie is a simple recipe, yet so full of flavor that it will instantly bring back cherished memories and moments of family joy. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it is also a healthier option compared to traditional butter-rich desserts. Whether you are looking for a quick dessert or a lent cake to sweeten your autumn days, this pie will satisfy all your cravings.

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Baking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of Servings: 8-10

Ingredients:
- 1 pack of margarine (250g)
- 15 tablespoons of flour
- 7 tablespoons of water
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder (or baking soda quenched with lemon juice)
- Zest of one lemon
- Zest of one orange
- Granulated sugar (to taste)
- Powdered sugar (for decoration)
- Ground cinnamon (to taste)
- 10 large apples

Step by Step for a Perfect Pie:

1. Preparing the Dough:
In a large bowl, start by adding the soft margarine, cut into cubes. Using a spatula or mixer, mix the margarine until creamy. Add the lemon and orange zest for an extra burst of flavor. These not only enrich the taste but also add a touch of freshness.

2. Adding Dry Ingredients:
Sprinkle the flour and baking powder over the margarine mixture. Gently mix with a spatula until the ingredients form a homogeneous dough. If using baking soda, ensure it is quenched with lemon juice to activate the necessary chemical reaction in the dough.

3. Adding Water:
Gradually add water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing constantly. The dough should be easy to handle but not too sticky. If it feels too dry, don't hesitate to add a little more water.

4. Dividing the Dough:
Once the dough is ready, divide it into two equal portions. Cover them with plastic wrap and let them rest for 10 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a fluffy texture.

5. Preparing the Apples:
Meanwhile, peel the apples and grate them on a large grater. This is a nostalgic activity, and if you have a special apple slicer, now is the time to use it! Squeeze the apples well to remove excess juice, then add granulated sugar and cinnamon to taste. Mix well and set aside.

6. Assembling the Pie:
Preheat the oven to 180°C. On a floured work surface, roll out the first portion of dough into a thin sheet. Place the sheet in a greased or parchment-lined baking dish. Evenly distribute the apple mixture over the dough and sprinkle more sugar and cinnamon on top.

7. Second Sheet of Dough:
Roll out the second portion of dough and cover the apples. Make sure the dough is well rolled out and even. Using a fork, poke the sheet in several places to allow steam to escape during baking.

8. Baking:
Place the pie in the preheated oven and let it bake for about 45 minutes or until golden and crispy. The aroma that will fill your kitchen will be simply irresistible!

9. Serving:
Once the pie has cooled, sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant look. Cut into servings and enjoy each piece with a warm tea or refreshing lemonade.

Practical Tips:

- Apple Selection: Choose sweet-tart apples for a balanced taste. Granny Smith or Golden Delicious are excellent options.

- Maintaining Texture: If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can add some chopped nuts or almonds to the apple mixture.

- Sugar: You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your preferences. If you want an even healthier option, you can use natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup (however, to remain in the lent sphere, it is advisable to use sugar).

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can the pie be frozen? Yes, the pie can be frozen before baking. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn.

- Can I use other fruits? Absolutely! You can experiment with pears, peaches, or even berries for a diverse pie.

- What drinks pair well? A cup of herbal tea or mulled wine with spices will perfectly complement this dessert.

Nutritional Benefits:
This lent pie is a good source of fiber due to the apples, contributing to healthy digestion. Additionally, using margarine instead of butter reduces saturated fat content, making it a lighter choice for those pursuing a healthy lifestyle.

In conclusion, my mother's lent pie with apples is not just a delicious dessert, but also a recipe full of memories and joy. Make it with love and share it with your loved ones! Enjoy!