Sliced apple pie

Sliced Apple Pie – a classic recipe that combines the fragrant sweetness of apples with the soft and creamy texture of the dough, perfect for any occasion. This pie is a true delight, ideal for a quick snack or to be served at a festive meal. Additionally, it is a wonderful way to utilize apples that have started to spoil, becoming a quick and tasty dessert.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8-10

Required ingredients:

- 6 medium to large apples (you can choose tart apples for a pleasant contrast with the sweetness)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 package (200 g) of butter
- 500 mL of milk
- 5 tablespoons of sugar (adjustable according to preferences)
- 5 tablespoons of flour
- Grated zest of one lemon
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
- A pinch of salt

Tools:

- A 20/33 cm baking dish
- Baking paper
- A large mixing bowl
- Mixer or whisk
- Knife and cutting board for slicing the apples

Step by step to make the pie:

1. Preparing the apples:
Start by peeling the apples, then remove the cores and slice them thinly. The apple slices will add a wonderful texture to the pie. Make sure the apples are fresh but not too hard, so they bake evenly.

2. Arranging the apple slices:
Line the baking dish with baking paper to prevent sticking. Arrange the apple slices in three rows, covering the bottom of the dish evenly. Sprinkle cinnamon and vanilla sugar on top, which will bring a special fragrance and inviting aroma.

3. Preparing the mixture:
In a pot, melt the butter with part of the milk over low heat, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Once melted, add the rest of the milk to speed up the cooling of the mixture.

4. Separating the eggs:
In a separate bowl, separate the egg whites from the yolks. Beat the yolks with two tablespoons of sugar until creamy. In another bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form stiff peaks, then add the remaining sugar, continuing to beat until you achieve a glossy meringue.

5. Combining the ingredients:
Add the milk and butter mixture to the bowl with the yolks, followed by the flour and grated lemon zest. Mix well until you obtain a homogeneous composition. Then, gently fold in the egg white meringue, being careful not to let it deflate.

6. Assembling the pie:
Pour the batter over the apple slices, ensuring they are evenly covered. This will allow the apples to rise slightly through the batter during baking, providing a delicious texture.

7. Baking:
Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the dish in the oven and let the pie bake for 40 minutes, or until it becomes golden and firm to the touch.

8. Cooling and serving:
Once baked, allow the pie to cool completely in the dish. It is recommended to cut it only after it has completely cooled to firm up the filling. You can dust it with powdered sugar on top for an elegant appearance.

Helpful tips:

- Choosing the apples: Granny Smith or Golden Delicious apples are excellent for this recipe, bringing a mix of acidity and sweetness.
- Variations: You can add chopped nuts or raisins to the batter for extra texture. You can also experiment with flavors by adding a bit of vanilla or cardamom.
- Serving: The pie pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream. A cup of tea or coffee will perfectly complement this dessert.

Nutritional benefits:

This apple pie not only offers a delicious taste but also valuable nutrients. Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. By using butter and milk, the pie also contains healthy fats that can contribute to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

- Why is it important to let the pie cool completely?
Complete cooling helps firm up the filling, ensuring that the pie will cut easily and have a pleasant texture.

- Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely! You can replace the apples with pears or peaches to create delicious variations of this recipe.

- How can I store the pie?
The pie keeps well in a covered container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave to restore its soft texture.

With every bite of this apple pie, you will remember the pleasant moments spent with loved ones. So, don't hesitate to make it and share this recipe with those who appreciate a dessert made with love. Enjoy!