Apple Pies (Mom's recipe)

Apple Pastries - Grandma's Recipe

When it comes to culinary memories, few can compete with the delicious apple pastries that my mother used to make. These simple yet incredibly tasty snacks are a true delight for the taste buds. With a fluffy dough and a filling of caramelized apples, these pastries quickly become the favorites of the whole family. Let's discover together how to prepare them!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8-10 pastries

Recipe History

Apple pastries are a traditional recipe passed down through generations. Their origins are lost in the mists of time, but they are known to have been made in many cultures as a way to make use of fresh fruits, especially apples. They were often made during the autumn when apples are in season, and were enjoyed both as a dessert and a snack. My mother's recipe is certainly one of the most beloved!

Necessary Ingredients

For the dough:
- 500 g of good quality flour
- Water, as needed (approximately 200 ml)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 200 g of lard (or a vegetarian alternative, such as margarine)

For the filling:
- 1 kg of apples (sour apples, such as green ones, are ideal)
- 3-4 tablespoons of sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon (or more if you are a fan of this flavor)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- Oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for decoration

Step by Step in Making the Pastries

1. Making the dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour with the salt. Add the lard cut into cubes and, using your fingers, rub until you achieve a texture similar to breadcrumbs. Gradually add water, mixing continuously, until you obtain a smooth but not too soft dough. The dough should be elastic and easy to work with.

2. Resting the dough: Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rest for 15 minutes. This will allow the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out.

3. Preparing the filling: Peel the apples and cut them into small cubes. In a pan, add the apples, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla sugar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples become soft and the sugar caramelizes, about 5-7 minutes. Let the filling cool slightly.

4. Forming the pastries: On a well-floured surface, turn out the dough and roll it out into a thin sheet. Cut it into strips about 5 cm wide. Take each strip and brush it with lard, then roll it up to form a scroll. Cut the scroll into pieces of 4-5 cm and wrap each piece like a rose, hiding the end inside.

5. Rolling and filling: Twist each formed piece and gently roll it out with a rolling pin, being careful not to tear it. On each quarter of dough, add a few tablespoons of apple filling. Fold each piece into a triangle, ensuring that the filling does not leak out.

6. Frying the pastries: In a deep pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Fry each pastry on both sides until golden and crispy, about 3-4 minutes on each side. Remove them to an absorbent towel to drain excess oil.

7. Finishing: When the pastries are just warm, generously dust them with powdered sugar, giving them a special appearance and a sweet taste.

Useful Tips:

- Choosing apples: Use apples of different varieties to achieve a filling with varied texture and flavor. Sour apples are excellent for balancing the sweetness of the sugar.

- Vegan option: If you want to make a vegan version, replace the lard with coconut oil or margarine. The texture will be slightly different, but just as delicious.

- Flavor enhancements: Add some chopped nuts or raisins to the apple filling for an extra crunch and flavor.

- Serving: These pastries are delicious served warm, but can also be enjoyed cold. They can be accompanied by a cup of fragrant tea or a sweet wine, which will enhance the apple flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Absolutely! You can experiment with pears, peaches, or even berries.

2. How can I store the pastries?
The pastries store well in the fridge in an airtight container for 2-3 days. They can be reheated in the oven to regain their crispiness.

3. Is this a suitable recipe for special occasions?
Definitely! These pastries are perfect for festive meals, parties, or gatherings with friends.

Nutritional Benefits

Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. These pastries can be a good choice for a sweet snack, especially when made with natural ingredients. Of course, sugar and oil in the recipe should be consumed in moderation, but the joy of enjoying a homemade dessert is worth the effort!

These apple pastries are not just a treat but also a wonderful way to reminisce about the beautiful moments spent with family. Whether you enjoy them over coffee with friends or as a delicious family snack, each bite will take you back in time, reminding you of the warmth and love of home. Enjoy!