Apple pie
The mid-morning snack or afternoon tea is one of those times of the day that is particularly enjoyable, especially for hungry children. How to make something that is really delicious and appealing to youngsters, and yet also something healthy and homemade, is one of the most compelling challenges for those who want to treat their young charges to a special snack. That’s why today we have dusted off one of those recipes that never fails to please - the apple pie, a classic that comes all the way from America, or more precisely from New England. There’s nothing for it, then, except to get hold of some top quality apples and some cinnamon, and all the rest you’ll do with your hands. Admit it, just the idea of that aroma wafting through your house, so redolent of Christmas - you can’t wait to make your pie!
Ingredients
* approximate values per serving
Preparation
Prepare a shortcrust pastry, working the flour with the butter and ice water, and adding a pinch of salt. Shape it into a ball, wrap it in cling film and let rest for half an hour. Meanwhile, slice the apples, sprinkle them with lemon juice, and add the grated lemon zest, cinnamon and sugar. Roll out the pastry into two circles, fill one with the apples, and, using the prongs of a fork, seal well with the other pastry circle. If you have any pastry left over, make some decorations for the top of the pie. Brush with milk or egg yolk in order to get a lovely golden brown colour after baking. Bake at 200°C for 20 minutes and then at 180°C for another 40 minutes.
Step by step
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Slice the apples, drizzle with some lemon juice, add the lemon zest, the cinnamon and the sugar
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Roll out the first pastry circle
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Prick the pastry with a fork, then arrange the apples in the centre
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Cover the apples with a second pastry circle and seal well with a fork
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Decorate the top with any leftover pastry, making flower or leaf shapes as you please
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Bake at 200°C for 20 minutes and then at 180°C for another 40 minutes
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The apple pie is ready: serve it as it is or with a spoonful of vanilla ice cream!
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Additional information
Apple pie with apples and cinnamon
One of the most classic variations of Apple pie is the one that enhances the flavor of apples and cinnamon. To prepare this recipe, it is essential to choose high-quality apples, such as Granny Smith or Golden Delicious, which provide the right balance between sweetness and acidity. Cinnamon, combined with sugar and lemon zest, further enhances the flavor of the apples, making each bite a true delight. You can also enrich the filling with nuts or raisins for a crunchy texture and an extra touch of sweetness. Served warm, with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, the Apple pie becomes an irresistible dessert, perfect for any occasion.
American-style Apple pie
The preparation of Apple pie is traditionally linked to American cuisine, where this dessert is considered a symbol of American culture. The recipe calls for a crispy shortcrust pastry that encloses a spiced apple filling. This variation is distinguished by the addition of spices such as nutmeg and vanilla, which enrich the aromatic profile of the dessert. The baking takes place in the oven until a perfect golden brown is achieved, while the surface can be decorated with crossed strips of pastry. Apple pie is often served during holidays, such as Thanksgiving, and is a dessert that represents the tradition and conviviality of American families.
Light Apple pie with butter-free shortcrust pastry
For those who desire a lighter version of Apple pie, it is possible to prepare a shortcrust pastry without butter, replacing it with margarine or olive oil. This variation still maintains the crispness and flavor of the original dessert, but with a reduced caloric intake. Additionally, the amount of sugar can be decreased, opting for natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Apples can also be chosen from less sweet varieties, for a dessert that satisfies without weighing you down. This preparation is ideal for those following a balanced diet but who do not want to give up the taste of a traditional dessert.
Nutritional benefits of apples in Apple pie
Apples, the main ingredient of Apple pie, are rich in fiber and vitamins, particularly vitamin C. Consuming apples can help improve digestion and keep cholesterol levels in check. Furthermore, apples contain antioxidants that may assist in the prevention of certain chronic diseases. An Apple pie, per serving, can contain about 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used and the size of the slice. Choosing more tart varieties of apples and reducing the amount of sugar can make this dessert even healthier, without compromising on taste.
Can you freeze Apple pie?
Freezing Apple pie is an excellent solution for preserving the dessert and enjoying it later. It is advisable to freeze the pie before baking it, wrapping it well in plastic wrap or a food bag. This way, the freshness and flavor of the apples are best preserved. If you wish to freeze a slice that has already been baked, it is important to let it cool completely before packaging it. To thaw it, simply leave the pie or slice at room temperature for a few hours or reheat it in the oven to restore its original consistency. This way, you can enjoy a delicious Apple pie even days after preparation.