Rolled apple pie

Rolled apple pie - a fluffy and aromatic delicacy that will captivate you from the first bite! This recipe, lovingly shared by my friend Gaby, is perfect for any occasion, from a relaxing afternoon at home to a gathering with friends. Each slice promises a perfect blend of sweet, fragrant apples wrapped in fluffy dough, and the aroma of cinnamon will transport you to a world of stories.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 1 cup of milk (about 250 ml)
- 100 g butter (preferably at room temperature)
- 25 g fresh yeast (a cube)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 egg
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon of powdered sugar with vanilla beans
- Grated zest of one lemon (for a fresh taste)
- 600 g flour (about 4 ½ cups)

For the filling:
- 10 large apples (choose sweet apples, such as Golden or Gala)
- 1 tablespoon of butter
- 6-7 tablespoons of sugar (you can adjust according to the sweetness of the apples)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla sugar with vanilla beans
- Cinnamon (to taste)
- 1 egg (for brushing)
- Powdered sugar (for decoration)

A unique detail: You can add ground nuts or raisins to the filling for extra texture and flavor!

Recipe history: Apple pies are a symbol of culinary tradition, made in countless variations throughout history. They connect families around the table and bring a sense of warmth and comfort. This rolled apple pie recipe is a modern interpretation of an old tradition, blending simplicity with goodness.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the dough:
In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, salt, lemon zest, and vanilla sugar. Mix the dry ingredients well to combine evenly.

2. Mixing milk and butter:
In a saucepan, melt the butter cut into cubes in warm milk, being careful not to let it boil, just warm it up. This step is essential to activate the yeast.

3. Activating the yeast:
In another small bowl, mix the yeast with a teaspoon of sugar. Rub well until completely dissolved. This will help the dough rise better.

4. Combining ingredients:
Add the yeast mixture to the flour bowl, along with the beaten egg and the milk and butter mixture. Start kneading the dough, gradually adding the milk mixture until you obtain a non-sticky but moldable dough. You may not need to use all the milk mixture, so add it gradually!

5. Dough rising:
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about 30 minutes or until the volume of the dough doubles.

6. Preparing the filling:
Peel the apples and grate them with large holes. Squeeze out the excess juice – don’t throw it away, it’s full of vitamins and can be enjoyed!

7. Cooking the apples:
In a skillet, melt the butter and add the squeezed apples along with the sugar. Cook them over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they soften and no longer have juice (about 10-15 minutes). Finally, add the cinnamon and vanilla sugar, mixing well. Let the filling cool.

8. Shaping the pie:
Divide the dough into two equal parts. On a floured surface, roll out the first sheet with a rolling pin. Place half of the apple filling and spread it evenly. Carefully roll the dough into a cylinder. Repeat the process with the second sheet of dough.

9. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and prepare a baking tray with parchment paper. Place the pies on the tray and lightly score them with a knife (this step allows steam to escape). Beat an egg and brush the pies with it for a golden crust. Bake for 45-50 minutes until golden and fluffy.

10. Cooling and serving:
After removing them from the oven, let the pies cool for 10 minutes. Cover them with a clean towel to keep them soft. Finally, dust them with powdered sugar before serving.

Serving suggestions:
This rolled apple pie pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a cup of aromatic tea. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, and a drizzle of caramel sauce on top will add extra flavor!

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use apples from other varieties?
Yes, but sweet ones, such as Golden or Gala apples, provide the best taste.
- How can I store the pie?
Keep the pie in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or in the fridge for longer storage.
- Can I freeze the pie?
Yes, you can freeze the pies before baking them. Make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap.

Nutritional benefits: Apples are rich in fiber and vitamin C, while the dough provides essential carbohydrates, ideal for an energizing snack. Additionally, cinnamon has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, adding not only flavor but also health benefits.

This rolled apple pie recipe is not just a dessert but an experience that combines tradition with innovation. So put on your apron and let’s get cooking! You’ll bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones and, without a doubt, you’ll fall in love with every bite!