Cherry and apple pie

Apple and Sour Cherry Pies: A Beloved Delicacy

Who doesn't fondly remember the taste of warm, freshly fried pies that remind us of childhood? This recipe for apple and sour cherry pies is a perfect combination of sweet and sour flavors that will delight your senses. Inspired by ancient culinary traditions, these pies bring a touch of nostalgia and warmth in every bite. I invite you to discover this simple yet flavorful recipe that will make you feel like a true chef, even if you are just starting out.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 10 pies

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 300 ml milk
- 300 g flour
- 30 g butter
- 1 pinch of salt

For frying:
- 2 egg whites
- breadcrumbs
- oil (enough for frying)

For the filling:
- 1 apple, diced (choose a juicy and slightly sour apple for a more intense flavor)
- juice of half a lemon
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 pinch of cinnamon
- 200 g sour cherries (pitted, fresh or from compote)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla pudding

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Dough: In a pot, add the milk, butter, and salt. Place everything over medium heat and wait for it to reach boiling point. When it starts to boil, add all the flour at once, stirring vigorously with a spatula or wooden spoon. You will notice that the dough will quickly pull away from the sides of the pot. This is a key step, and the mixture must be homogeneous.

2. Cooling the Dough: Once the dough is well homogenized, turn it out onto a clean work surface and let it cool slightly. When it is still warm but not hot, knead it with your hands until it becomes a smooth ball. Wrap the ball in plastic wrap and let it cool completely at room temperature.

3. Preparing the Filling: In a bowl, add the diced apple and drizzle with lemon juice to prevent oxidation. Add the sugar and cinnamon, mix well, and let it sit for 15-20 minutes for the apple to release syrup. Separately, mix the sour cherries with the 4 tablespoons of sugar and let them sit to release their juice as well.

4. Cooking the Pudding: In a small pot, divide the vanilla pudding into two portions. First, add the apple mixture and simmer over low heat, stirring continuously until thickened. Repeat the same process for the sour cherries, cooking over low heat until they thicken as well. Let both fillings cool completely.

5. Forming the Pies: Once the dough has cooled, on a floured work surface, roll it out into a very thin sheet. Cut into circles or squares, depending on how you prefer to shape the pies. Add a tablespoon of the apple filling on one side of the dough, and on the other side add the sour cherry filling. Press the edges well to seal the pies.

6. Frying the Pies: Beat the egg whites in a bowl until soft peaks form. Dip each pie in the egg white, then in breadcrumbs, for a crispy and delicious exterior. In a deep skillet, heat the oil and fry the pies on each side until golden and crispy. Remove them onto a paper towel to absorb excess oil.

7. Serving: Serve the pies warm, dusted with powdered sugar, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of fragrant tea. The sweet and sour taste of the fillings will be perfectly balanced by the creaminess of the ice cream.

Practical Tips

- Choose juicy apples: Juicier apples will add moisture and create a delicious syrup.
- Experiment with fillings: You can add nuts, raisins, or even chocolate for a more decadent version.
- Make sure the oil is well heated: This will help achieve a crispy and golden crust.
- The pies can be frozen: If you want to keep them for later, you can freeze them before frying. When you're ready to serve, fry them straight from the freezer.

Nutritional Benefits

These pies are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Apples are rich in fiber, vitamins A and C, while sour cherries contain antioxidants that help combat inflammation. Additionally, a serving of this delicacy will provide you with energy and a sense of well-being due to the natural sugars in the fruit.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits for the filling?
Yes, you can use pears, peaches, or even a mix of berries to customize the recipe.

2. How can I make the pies less greasy?
Instead of frying, you can bake the pies in a preheated oven at 180°C for 20-25 minutes, until golden.

3. What is the secret to achieving the perfect dough texture?
It's important not to add too much flour and not to knead the dough too much. It should be elastic but not sticky.

Conclusion

These apple and sour cherry pies are a perfect choice for a sweet snack or a festive dessert. With a crispy texture, flavorful fillings, and an inviting aroma, they will surely become the stars of your table. Don't hesitate to experiment and put your personal touch on this classic recipe. Bon appétit!