Homemade apple pie

Homemade apple pie is a classic recipe that evokes sweet childhood memories, when the aroma of baked apples and cinnamon enticed the senses and gathered the family around the table. This apple dessert is not only delicious but also very easy to prepare, making it ideal for winter days spent at home. Whether you enjoy it alongside a cup of hot tea or a fragrant coffee, the apple pie will bring warmth and comfort to your souls.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 90 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:

- 1 cube of fresh yeast (25 g)
- 3 cups of white flour (approximately 450 g)
- 2 cups of white sugar (approximately 400 g)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 2 tablespoons of margarine (or butter for a richer taste)
- 1 cup of warm water (approximately 250 ml)
- 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon
- About 15 small red Romanian apples (approximately 1.5 kg)
- Powdered sugar for decoration, at the end

Preparation:

1. Preparing the dough: In a small bowl, mix the cube of yeast with 2 tablespoons of white sugar. Add 1 cup of warm water and mix well until the yeast is completely dissolved. This step is essential to activate the yeast, so make sure the water is not too hot, as it could kill the microorganisms.

2. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, gradually add the flour while continuously mixing with a wooden spoon or with your hands to avoid lumps. Knead the dough for 10-15 minutes until it becomes elastic and smooth. Cover it with a clean cloth and let it sit in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in volume.

3. Preparing the filling: In the meantime, wash the apples and grate them using a large grater, keeping the skin for added flavor and texture. In a bowl, mix the grated apples with white sugar, vanilla sugar, and cinnamon. This will give the filling a special flavor.

4. Forming the pie: Once the dough has risen, take it out of the bowl and place it on a floured work surface. Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll out the first part with a rolling pin to obtain a thin sheet that fits the baking tray. Grease the tray with a tablespoon of margarine, ensuring it is well covered.

5. Assembling the pie: Place the first sheet of dough in the tray and evenly add the apple filling. Roll out the second sheet of dough and place it over the filling. Seal the edges by moistening your hands to help the dough stick better.

6. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the tray inside. Bake the pie for about 60 minutes, or until it turns golden and crispy. Check the pie from time to time, and if you notice it browning too quickly, you can cover the tray with aluminum foil.

7. Finishing: Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly. Cut it into portions and sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a festive appearance. This adds a touch of elegance and a pleasant contrast to the sweet-sour filling.

Useful tips:

- For a more intense flavor, you can add a splash of lemon juice over the apples, which will enhance their aroma and prevent oxidation.
- Variations: If you want to experiment, try adding nuts or raisins to the apple filling for added texture. You can also use other fruits, such as pears or peaches, to diversify the recipe.
- Serving: The apple pie is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with caramel sauce for a decadent dessert.

Nutritional information:

This homemade apple pie is rich in carbohydrates, providing energy, but should be consumed in moderation due to its sugar content. Apples provide an important source of fiber and vitamins, making them a healthy ingredient.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast?
Yes, you can use dry yeast, making sure to follow the proportions indicated on the packaging.

2. How can I make the dough less sticky?
Make sure to use enough flour during kneading. If the dough becomes too sticky, gradually add more flour.

3. Can I freeze the pie?
Yes, the pie can be frozen. Let it cool completely, then wrap it well in plastic wrap and store it in the freezer.

Conclusion:

Homemade apple pie is more than just a dessert; it is a recipe full of memories and traditions, a way to bring the family together. Try this simple and quick recipe, and allow yourself to be transported back in time to the happy moments of childhood. Enjoy your meal!