English apple pie

English Style Apple Pie

Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10

Introduction

Apple pie is a classic dessert cherished by generations, bringing together the sweet and tart flavors of fresh apples with the crunchy texture of the crust. This English-style recipe is not just a treat for the taste buds but also a celebration of cooking traditions that make us feel at home. Regardless of the occasion, a slice of warm apple pie served with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream is always welcome.

Ingredients

*For the crust:*
- 100 g margarine or butter
- 140 g flour
- 50 g sugar
- 1 egg
- A pinch of salt
- 50 g chopped nuts or almonds

*For the filling:*
- 800 g apples (about 5-6 large apples)
- 150 g sugar
- A handful of raisins
- Zest of one lemon
- 2-3 tablespoons of lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon of potato or corn starch

Preparing the crust

1. Start by grating the margarine or butter into a large bowl. It’s important for the margarine or butter to be at room temperature for easy incorporation.

2. Add the sugar and egg to the bowl, mixing well until the mixture becomes homogeneous. You can use a mixer or a spatula, depending on your preference.

3. Incorporate the flour, a pinch of salt, and the chopped nuts or almonds. Mix everything until you obtain a homogeneous dough. If the dough is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

4. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1 hour. This will help firm up the dough, making it easier to roll out later.

Preparing the filling

5. Meanwhile, peel the apples and slice them thinly. It is recommended to use tart apples for a pleasant contrast with the sweetness of the sugar.

6. In a pan, place the sliced apples, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice, and raisins. Sauté the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar melts and the apples begin to soften (about 5-10 minutes).

7. Once the apples have cooled, add the starch and cinnamon, mixing well to combine the ingredients. The starch will help thicken the filling during baking.

Assembling the pie

8. Preheat the oven to 180°C (moderate heat).

9. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into two parts, one slightly larger for the base of the pie. On a floured surface, roll out the larger dough until you obtain a disc about 3-5 mm thick.

10. Grease a round glass baking dish with butter or margarine. Using a rolling pin, transfer the rolled-out dough and place it in the dish, making sure to cover the sides as well.

11. Add the apple filling to the center of the dish, ensuring it is evenly distributed.

12. Roll out the remaining dough and cover the filling. Use a knife to make a few cuts in the top of the dough so that steam can escape during baking. These cuts will also give the pie a rustic look.

13. Seal the edges of the dough well to prevent the filling from leaking during baking.

14. Place the pie in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes or until the dough is golden and crispy.

Serving and suggestions

Once the pie is ready, let it cool slightly before cutting. You can sprinkle vanilla sugar on top for an extra touch of sweetness and flavor. Serve the pie warm, alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a delicious contrast.

Variations and tips

- You can replace the apples with pears or peaches for a different version of the pie. Each fruit adds a unique and interesting note.
- Add chopped nuts or almonds to the filling for extra texture.
- Instead of raisins, you can use cranberries or candied cherries for a tart note.

Nutritional benefits

This apple pie is a good source of fiber due to the apples, which can aid digestion. Adding nuts improves the nutritional profile with healthy fats and proteins. Additionally, cinnamon has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned apples for the filling?
- While possible, fresh apples provide a better texture and more intense flavor.

2. How can I store the pie?
- It is recommended to keep it in the refrigerator, covered, to maintain its freshness. The pie can be enjoyed even after a few days.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
- You can adapt the recipe using vegan margarine and an egg substitute (such as banana puree or flaxseeds).

Conclusion

The English-style apple pie is a classic dessert that is easy to make and will surely impress anyone who tastes it. With each bite, it will take you back to warm moments spent with loved ones. So gather your ingredients and enjoy the cooking process!