Apple pie with flaky crust

Apple pie with flaky crust is a classic dessert that evokes pleasant childhood memories, making it a perfect choice for any occasion. The sweet and slightly tart flavors of the apples, combined with the delicate and fluffy texture of the crust, create an unforgettable culinary experience. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step through the preparation process, providing useful tips and interesting information about each ingredient.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

*For the crust:*
- 250 g butter (or margarine, at your discretion)
- 400 g flour
- 2 eggs
- 100 g sugar
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- A pinch of salt
- 1 packet baking powder

*For the filling:*
- 2 kg apples (preferably tart apples, such as Granny Smith)
- Sugar to taste
- Cinnamon to taste
- 1 packet vanilla sugar

Nutritional information
This pie is an excellent source of fiber due to the apples, and the butter adds a dose of healthy fats. Although it is a sweet dessert, when consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet. Each serving contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of sugar used.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the crust
Start by bringing all the ingredients to room temperature. In a large bowl, cream the butter with the sugar, vanilla sugar, and a pinch of salt. Use a spatula or mixer to achieve a creamy, uniform mixture. It is important for the butter to be soft to combine well with the sugar.

2. Adding the eggs
Incorporate the two eggs, mixing well until homogeneous. This step will add moisture to the dough and contribute to its fluffy structure.

3. Mixing the dry ingredients
In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. Then, gradually add this mixture to the butter mixture, mixing continuously until you get a homogeneous dough. If the dough becomes too sticky, feel free to add a little more flour.

4. Chilling the dough
Form a ball from the dough and wrap it in plastic wrap. Place it in the refrigerator for about an hour. This will help firm up the butter, making the dough easier to roll out.

5. Preparing the filling
Meanwhile, peel the apples and grate them on a large grater or use a food processor. Place them in a saucepan over low heat, mixing with sugar to taste. Let them soften well, about 10 minutes. After the apples have cooked, add the cinnamon and vanilla sugar. Allow the filling to cool and drain well in a colander to remove excess liquid.

6. Assembling the pie
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into two equal parts. Roll out the first sheet on a floured surface, then transfer it to a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Make sure the dough covers the edges of the tray well.

7. Adding the filling
Spread the drained apple filling evenly over the first sheet of dough. This step is essential to prevent the pie from becoming too wet.

8. Covering with the second sheet
Roll out the second sheet of dough and place it over the filling. Seal the edges to ensure the filling does not leak during baking.

9. Baking the pie
Preheat the oven to 190°C. Place the pie in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden and crispy. In the last 5 minutes, check the pie to avoid burning.

10. Finishing
Once the pie is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant and appetizing appearance.

Serving suggestions
Apple pie is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a dollop of whipped cream. Additionally, a cup of herbal tea or a sweet white wine can perfectly complement the flavors of the pie.

Variations and tips
- For a healthier version, try using coconut oil instead of butter and reduce the amount of sugar.
- You can add nuts or raisins to the apple filling for extra texture and flavor.
- If you want an exotic note, try adding a little grated ginger or nutmeg to the filling.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other fruits for the filling?
Yes, this recipe can easily be adapted. Peaches, plums, or cherries can be excellent alternatives.

2. How can I store the pie?
The pie can be stored at room temperature for 2-3 days, but to maintain its freshness, it is best to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

3. What is the secret to a flaky crust?
Make sure the ingredients are cold and do not overwork the dough. This will help achieve a fine and flaky texture.

I hope this recipe for apple pie with flaky crust brings you joy and becomes a favorite in your family. Cooking is an art, and each recipe is a story in itself. So enjoy every step and let your creativity shine!