Cake with flaky layers and apple filling

Apple Pie with Tender Layers and Filling

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 60 minutes + 12 hours chilling
Servings: 12

Who can resist a dessert with the aroma of apples and cinnamon, especially on cool autumn or winter evenings? This apple pie with tender layers is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a pleasant reminder of childhood, when enticing scents filled the kitchen. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for serving alongside a cup of tea or coffee. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 2 eggs
- A pinch of salt
- 8 tablespoons brown sugar
- 8 tablespoons milk
- 8 tablespoons melted butter or oil
- 1 teaspoon baking soda mixed with lemon juice or vinegar
- Flour as needed (approximately 30 tablespoons)

For the filling:
- 1.5 kg apples
- 100 g sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the dough

1. Separating the eggs: Start by separating the eggs. Place the egg whites in a large bowl and the yolks in another.

2. Beating the egg whites: Add a pinch of salt to the egg whites and beat them with a mixer until frothy. Gradually add the brown sugar, continuing to mix until you achieve a firm, glossy meringue.

3. Adding the yolks: Incorporate the yolks one at a time, gently mixing after each addition.

4. Incorporating the wet ingredients: Add the milk and melted butter (or oil) and mix until you have a smooth batter.

5. Adding the flour: Sift the flour gradually, stirring continuously, until the dough becomes soft and easy to roll out. You can use a spatula or a wooden spoon to mix.

6. Dividing the dough: Divide the dough into 4 equal parts. Shape them into balls and set aside for a few minutes.

Step 2: Baking the layers

1. Rolling out the layers: On a floured surface, roll out each ball of dough into thin sheets, approximately 28x30 cm.

2. Baking the layers: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the sheets on baking trays lined with parchment paper and bake for 8-10 minutes or until the edges turn golden. Be careful, as the sheets can bake quickly, so keep an eye on them!

Step 3: Preparing the filling

1. Preparing the apples: Peel the apples and grate them using a large grater. This step is essential for achieving a fine and delicious filling.

2. Cooking the apples: Place the grated apples in a pot over medium heat, add the sugar and cinnamon. Cook until the apples release their juices and evaporate, leaving a sweet and fragrant filling. This step may take about 10-15 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Cooling the filling: Once the filling is ready, allow it to cool completely. Then, divide the filling into 3 equal parts.

Step 4: Assembling the pie

1. Preparing the base: Place a piece of plastic wrap on a cardboard or a sturdy base.

2. Layer of dough: Place the first sheet of dough on the wrap. Spread one part of the filling evenly on top.

3. Continuing the assembly: Place the second sheet over the filling, follow with another part of the filling, and repeat the process with the third sheet and the remaining filling. Finally, place the last sheet of dough on top.

4. Chilling the pie: Cover everything with plastic wrap and refrigerate the pie for at least 12 hours, ideally overnight. This step allows the layers to absorb the filling and become tender.

Step 5: Serving

1. Serving the pie: After the pie has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator, take off the plastic wrap, and dust it with powdered sugar before cutting it into portions.

2. Serving suggestions: You can serve the pie alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This will add a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.

Helpful Tips

- Choose the right apples: Tart apples, such as Granny Smith, are ideal for this recipe as they provide a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the sugar.

- Customize the filling: If desired, you can add chopped nuts or raisins to the filling for extra texture.

- Experiment with spices: Instead of cinnamon, you can try pie spice blends or even a pinch of nutmeg for a more complex flavor.

Nutritional Information

This pie is a delicious yet calorie-dense choice. Each serving (approximately 100 g) contains about 250 calories. We all deserve to indulge from time to time, and this is a great way to bring joy to any meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits for the filling?
Yes, you can experiment with other fruits such as pears, peaches, or even berries.

2. How can I keep the pie longer?
The pie keeps well in the refrigerator, covered, for 3-4 days. It can also be frozen, but make sure to let it thaw completely before serving.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, you can replace the eggs with a mixture of 1/4 cup of applesauce or 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water. Also, use vegan butter or oil.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to start cooking! This apple pie with tender layers will surely become one of your favorite recipes. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent in the kitchen!