Apple pie with roasted nuts

Apple and Roasted Walnut Pie: A Fragrant Delicacy

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Introduction

Apple and roasted walnut pie is a dessert that not only delights the taste buds but also combines tradition with the fresh flavors of the season. This simple and delicious recipe is perfect for any occasion, from family meals to relaxing weekend evenings. Sweet apples and crunchy walnuts blend harmoniously in a fluffy dough, creating a true explosion of flavor. Whether served warm or at room temperature, this pie is sure to become a favorite!

A Brief History of the Pie

Pies are an essential part of culinary tradition, prepared in various forms and combinations over time. The origins of apple pies are lost in the mists of history, but they have always been associated with moments of joy and family gatherings. This recipe, with roasted walnuts, adds an extra layer of flavor and texture, transforming a simple dessert into a memorable gastronomic experience.

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g flour
- 150 ml lukewarm water
- 25 g fresh yeast
- 2/3 cup sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 70 ml oil

For the filling:
- 5 large apples
- 6 tablespoons sugar
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 150 g roasted and ground walnuts
- 3 tablespoons semolina

For decoration:
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar

Necessary Utensils

- Mixing bowl
- Sifter or sieve for sifting flour
- Large grater
- Pie dish (preferably with a removable bottom)
- Baking paper
- Cooling rack

Detailed Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the yeast

1. Activating the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the fresh yeast with 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes liquid and starts to bubble. This step is essential for activating the yeast and achieving a fluffy dough.

2. Adding water: Add a little lukewarm water (about 50 ml) to the yeast mixture and stir gently.

Step 2: Preparing the dough

3. Sifting the flour: In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the salt. This step helps achieve a fine texture for the dough.

4. Mixing the ingredients: Add the activated yeast, the remaining lukewarm water (about 100 ml), and the oil. Start kneading the dough until it becomes elastic and no longer sticks to your hands. This process should take about 10 minutes.

5. Let the dough rise: Form a ball from the dough, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place, away from drafts, for 1 hour.

Step 3: Preparing the filling

6. Preparing the apples: Peel the apples and grate them using a large grater. Add lemon juice to prevent oxidation and add a note of freshness.

7. Adding the ingredients: In a bowl, combine the grated apples with the roasted and ground walnuts, sugar, and semolina. The semolina helps absorb the apple juices, preventing the dough from becoming too wet.

Step 4: Assembling the pie

8. Dividing the dough: Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide it into two equal parts.

9. Rolling out the dough: Using a rolling pin, roll each part of the dough into a thin sheet. Try to achieve as uniform a shape as possible.

10. Placing in the dish: Place the first sheet of dough in the pie dish lined with baking paper. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of semolina on the bottom of the dish to absorb the apple juices.

11. Adding the filling: Pour the apple and walnut filling over the first layer of dough and sprinkle another 1-2 tablespoons of semolina over the filling.

12. Covering: Place the second sheet of dough over the filling, sealing the edges with your fingers to prevent juices from leaking during baking.

Step 5: Baking the pie

13. Let the pie rise: Allow the pie to rise again for 45 minutes to achieve a fluffy texture.

14. Preheating the oven: During this time, preheat the oven to 180°C.

15. Baking: Bake the pie for 40-45 minutes or until it becomes golden and crispy on top. It is important not to open the oven door during the first 30 minutes to avoid temperature drop.

Step 6: Serving

16. Cooling: Once the pie is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool on a cooling rack. This step helps stabilize the filling.

17. Decorating: Immediately after removing the pie from the oven, sprinkle powdered sugar on top for an elegant appearance.

Practical Tips

- Choose the right apples: Use sweet-tart apples like Granny Smith or Golden Delicious for a pleasant flavor contrast.
- Roasted walnuts: Roasting the walnuts before adding them to the filling enhances their flavor. You can also use almonds or hazelnuts, depending on your preferences.
- Vegan option: Replace the oil with vegan butter and use almond milk to make the pie compatible with a vegan diet.
- Serving: This pie pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce, adding extra flavor.

Nutritional Information

One serving of apple and roasted walnut pie (approximately 100g) contains on average:
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I use other fruits for the filling?
A: Absolutely! You can try combinations of fruits like pears or peaches for a different note.

Q2: How can I tell if the pie is baked?
A: Check if the surface is golden and do the toothpick test; it should come out clean from the filling.

Q3: Can I keep the pie for the next day?
A: Yes, the pie keeps well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap. You can reheat it in the oven to restore its crispy texture.

Conclusion

Apple and roasted walnut pie is more than just a dessert; it is an experience that brings together natural flavors and culinary tradition. Each bite is an explosion of tastes that will delight your senses. So, don't hesitate to bring this recipe into your kitchen – you will have unforgettable moments with your loved ones!