Apple pie with meringue

Apple meringue pie - a classic and comforting delicacy that combines the sweetness of apples with the fine and airy texture of meringue. This recipe is perfect for bringing a touch of warmth on cooler days or simply to celebrate a special moment with loved ones. Whether it's a gathering with friends or a family meal, the apple meringue pie will surely be a hit!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40-55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

- 200-300 g crushed cookies (choose plain cookies without filling to avoid affecting the taste)
- 1.5-2 kg peeled and grated apples (sour apples like Granny Smith are ideal)
- 5 eggs (at room temperature for a more stable meringue)
- 1 cup of sugar (about 200 g)
- 5 tablespoons of sugar (for meringue)
- 1 liter of milk (you can also use plant-based milk for a lactose-free version)
- 1 cup of flour (about 130 g)
- 1-2 sachets of vanilla sugar (or a vanilla pod for a more intense flavor)

Preparation

1. Prepare the crust: Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (356°F). Grease a baking tray with margarine (or butter) to prevent the pie from sticking. Evenly sprinkle the crushed cookies on the bottom of the tray, making sure to cover the entire surface.

2. Prepare the apples: Peel the apples, remove the seeds, and grate them. Place the grated apples on top of the cookies in the tray and put the tray in the oven. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the apples become soft and slightly browned. This step will add a delicious aroma and enhance the sweetness of the apples.

3. Egg yolk cream: In a large bowl, beat the egg yolks together with a cup of sugar, milk, vanilla sugar, and flour. Mix well to avoid lumps. Transfer the mixture to a saucepan and place it over medium heat. Stir constantly to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pan. Continue stirring until the cream thickens, having a pudding-like consistency. Once the cream is ready, let it cool slightly.

4. Assembling the pie: After the apples are ready, take the tray out of the oven and pour the egg yolk cream evenly over the apples. This will create a delicious layer that will combine perfectly with the apples.

5. Preparing the meringue: In a clean bowl, beat the egg whites with the 5 tablespoons of sugar until you achieve a firm and shiny meringue. A trick to achieving perfect meringue is to ensure that the bowl and utensils are completely dry and that there are no traces of yolk in the egg whites.

6. Finalizing the pie: Spread the meringue evenly over the egg yolk cream. Put the tray back in the oven and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the meringue becomes slightly golden and firm.

7. Cooling and serving: Once the pie is ready, let it cool completely in the tray. It is recommended to cut it cold for perfectly defined portions. You can serve the pie plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream, which will beautifully contrast with the warm flavors of the apples.

Practical tips

- Choose apples carefully: To achieve a delicious pie, choosing the right apples is essential. Sour apples provide a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the meringue and cookies.
- Gluten-free option: You can replace the flour with a gluten-free option, such as almond flour or rice flour, adjusting the amount according to the desired consistency.
- Optional additions: You can add cinnamon or nutmeg to the grated apples for an extra flavor boost. Additionally, a splash of lemon juice will further enhance the taste of the apples.
- Serving: This pie pairs perfectly with a warm tea or fragrant coffee. Also, a scoop of cream or vanilla ice cream will add a refreshing touch.

Nutritional information

This apple meringue pie contains approximately 250 calories per serving, offering a balance of carbohydrates from cookies and apples, proteins from eggs, and a moderate amount of sugar. Apples are rich in fiber and vitamins A and C, providing considerable nutritional benefits, such as immune support and digestive aid.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other fruits?
Yes! You can experiment with other fruits, such as peaches or pears, depending on the season.

2. How can I make the pie less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the cream and meringue according to personal preferences. Also, choose more sour apples.

3. Can this pie be frozen?
Although the apple meringue pie can be frozen, it is recommended to consume it fresh to enjoy its airy texture. If you freeze it, let it thaw in the refrigerator before serving.

In conclusion, the apple meringue pie is a recipe that will not only bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones but will also become an unforgettable taste memory. So, embrace this recipe and enjoy every bite!