Apple pie

Apple pie is a classic dessert that combines the rich aroma of apples with the fluffy texture of the dough, making it perfect for both an afternoon tea and a festive meal. This simple and quick recipe is ideal for any cooking enthusiast, regardless of their experience level. Let’s embark together on the delicious world of apple pies!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:

For the dough:
- 300 g flour
- 75 g sugar
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon sour cream
- 200 g margarine (or butter for a richer taste)
- 1 pinch of baking powder

For the filling:
- 1 kg apples (preferably tart apples for a flavor contrast)
- 150 g sugar
- a pinch of cinnamon

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the apples and peeling them. Cut them into cubes or grate them. If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can add a few drops of lemon juice over the apples to keep them fresh and enhance their aroma.

2. Mixing the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. Add the sugar and mix well. It is important to use good quality flour to achieve a uniform and fluffy texture.

3. Adding the wet ingredients: In the center of the flour mixture, make a well and add the egg, sour cream, and cubed margarine. Use a mixer or knead by hand until you obtain a homogeneous dough. It should be slightly sticky but pull away from the sides of the bowl. If it is too sticky, you can add a little more flour.

4. Dividing the dough: Divide the dough into two equal parts. Cover one part with plastic wrap and set it aside. This will be used to cover the filling.

5. Forming the base of the pie: On a floured surface, roll out the first part of the dough into a sheet about 5 mm thick. Use a rolling pin to achieve an even shape.

6. Preparing the baking tray: Grease a baking tray with margarine and dust it with flour. Place the sheet of dough in the tray, ensuring to cover the edges as well.

7. Preparing the filling: In another bowl, mix the grated apples with sugar and cinnamon. Let them sit for 10 minutes to release their juices, which will intensify the flavors.

8. Assembling the pie: Over the dough in the tray, sprinkle a tablespoon of semolina (this will absorb the excess moisture from the apples). Then, add the apple mixture and spread it evenly.

9. Covering the pie: Roll out the other part of the dough and place it over the filling. I recommend pricking the dough with a fork here and there to allow steam to escape during baking, thus preventing air bubbles from forming.

10. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C and place the pie inside. Bake for about 45 minutes or until it becomes golden and beautifully browned. It’s a good idea to check the pie 5-10 minutes before the baking time is up to ensure it doesn’t burn.

11. Cooling and serving: Once the pie is ready, let it cool in the tray for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. You can sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch.

Helpful tip: Apple pie is delicious both warm and cold. For an extra flavor boost, you can serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel.

Nutritional benefits: Apples are rich in fiber and vitamins, and sugar can be replaced with alternatives like honey or a natural sweetener if you want to reduce calorie intake. A serving of pie contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Possible variations: You can add chopped nuts or raisins to the apple filling for a crunchy texture. You can also experiment with other spices like nutmeg or ginger to create a unique flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I replace margarine with butter? Yes, butter provides a richer taste, but make sure it is at room temperature to incorporate easily into the dough.
- How can I store the pie? The pie can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or in the refrigerator for a week.
- Can I use canned apples? Yes, but make sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture.

Apple pie is not just a dessert; it’s a family story, a moment of joy and comfort. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or just to indulge yourself, each slice will bring pleasant memories and smiles. Savor every bite and enjoy the magic of cooking!