Sour Apple Pie

Sour Apple Pie - A Fall Delight

Who doesn't love the aroma of a freshly baked apple pie? This classic dessert, with its flaky crust and sweet-tart filling, reminds us of peaceful days spent in the orchard, picking ripe apples. Today, I will guide you step by step in making a sour apple pie, a simple and delicious recipe perfect for any occasion.

Preparation time: 2 hours
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 2 hours 40 minutes
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients

For the crust:
- 2 eggs
- 1 package of butter (approximately 200 g, at room temperature)
- 1 cup of oil (approximately 100 mL)
- 1 cup of sparkling water
- 2 tablespoons of sugar
- 1 packet of baking powder
- 1 pinch of baking soda
- salt, to taste
- 600 g flour (do not use type 000 flour, a lower quality variant will work well)

For the filling:
- 1.5 kg sweet-tart apples (preferably from the orchard)
- 5 tablespoons of sugar
- 3 packets of vanilla sugar
- 2 tablespoons of semolina
- Powdered sugar for decoration

The History of Apple Pie

Apple pies have been made for centuries, symbolizing tradition and comfort. In many cultures, these desserts are associated with autumn, the harvest season when apples are at their peak. It's fascinating how such a simple recipe has managed to withstand the test of time, being adapted and reinterpreted over the years.

Preparing the Crust

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by bringing all the ingredients to room temperature. It is essential for the butter to be soft for easy incorporation into the mixture.

2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large bowl, cream the butter with the 2 tablespoons of sugar until you get a smooth and fluffy mixture. This step is crucial for ensuring a flaky texture.

3. Add the eggs: Crack the 2 eggs directly into the bowl without separating them, and mix well until fully integrated.

4. Incorporate the oil and sparkling water: Add the oil and sparkling water to the mixture and continue mixing to achieve a uniform composition.

5. Add the dry ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the flour mixture to the bowl with the wet ingredients, mixing constantly.

6. Kneading the dough: When the dough begins to form, turn it out onto a work surface and knead until it becomes non-sticky and firm. This process should not take more than a few minutes.

7. Resting the dough: Divide the dough into two, placing more in the portion that will form the bottom of the pie. Wrap them in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1-2 hours. This step will help the dough become easier to roll out and flakier.

Preparing the Filling

1. Preparing the apples: Peel the apples, remove the cores, and cut them into small pieces. If desired, you can puree them in a food processor for a smoother consistency.

2. Caramelizing the sugar: In a saucepan, add the 5 tablespoons of sugar and let it cook over medium heat to caramelize. Be careful not to burn it; you want to achieve a golden color.

3. Adding the apples: Once the sugar has caramelized, add the chopped apples and stir gently. Let them cook for 5-7 minutes to mix well with the sugar.

4. Cooking the apples: Continue to cook the apples for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and caramelized.

5. Finishing the filling: Once the apples are ready, add 2 tablespoons of semolina and mix well. Allow the filling to cool completely before using it.

Assembling the Pie

1. Preparing the pan: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and prepare a baking tray by lining it with parchment paper.

2. Rolling out the dough: Take the dough out of the refrigerator and, on a lightly floured surface, roll out the first part of the dough into a thin sheet large enough to cover the bottom of the pan.

3. Adding the filling: Place the sheet of dough in the tray and pour in the cooled apple filling, spreading it evenly.

4. Covering the pie: Roll out the second part of the dough and cover the filling. Make sure to seal the edges well. Prick with a fork in several places to allow steam to escape during baking.

5. Baking the pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 40 minutes or until golden and crispy.

Serving and Suggestions

Sour apple pie is usually served cold, but it's also delicious warm! You can dust it with vanilla-flavored powdered sugar for an elegant look. If you want to add an extra flavor, try sprinkling a little cinnamon on top of the apples before covering with dough.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of apples, but sweet-tart ones are ideal for achieving a pleasant contrast in the pie.

2. How can I store the pie?
It keeps well at room temperature for 2-3 days, but you can refrigerate it for a longer duration.

3. What drinks pair well with the pie?
Mint tea or mulled wine can perfectly complement the flavor of the apple pie.

Nutritional Benefits

Apples are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to a healthy diet. The semolina added to the filling helps absorb the apple juice, providing a pleasant texture.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to put on your apron and start your culinary adventure! Sour apple pie will surely become a favorite among family and friends. Enjoy every moment!