This Apple Cinnamon Pie is the perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavors with a buttery, flaky crust. The cinnamon-spiced apples paired with a soft, golden pastry make it an irresistible dessert for any occasion. It’s simple to make and will leave your home smelling deliciously warm and inviting.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 5 medium-sized apples (670g)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (15 ml)
- 2 tablespoons sugar (40g)
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
For the Dough:
- 5 tablespoons butter (100g)
- A pinch of salt
- 5 tablespoons sugar (100g)
- 8g vanilla sugar (1 tablespoon)
- 2 medium-sized eggs (63g each)
- 4g baking powder (1 teaspoon)
- 3 1/4 cups flour (400g)
For Assembly:
- 1 egg yolk (for brushing)
- 1 egg white (optional for binding or coating)
- Powdered sugar (for dusting)
Directions:
- Prepare the Filling:
- Peel and slice the apples.
- Toss the apple slices with lemon juice, sugar, and cinnamon. Set aside.
- Prepare the Dough:
- In a large bowl, cream the butter, salt, sugar, and vanilla sugar until smooth.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Gradually sift in the flour and baking powder until the dough forms.
- Assemble the Pie:
- Roll out the dough to fit a 51cm x 36cm baking tray.
- Place the apple filling evenly over the dough.
- Roll out any remaining dough to cover the filling or create a lattice top if desired.
- Bake:
- Brush the top with egg yolk for a golden finish.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
- Finishing Touch:
- Let the pie cool for a few minutes and dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for added sweetness.
- Pair with whipped cream and a dash of cinnamon on top.
- Serve with a cup of hot coffee or tea.
- Enjoy cold for breakfast or as a snack.
Cooking Tips:
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced flavor.
- Make sure the butter is cold when making the dough to ensure a flaky crust.
- Chill the dough for 30 minutes before rolling it out for easier handling.
- Brush the crust with egg wash to achieve a golden brown color.
- Use parchment paper to prevent the dough from sticking to the baking tray.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Apples: Rich in fiber and vitamin C, promoting digestive health and boosting the immune system.
- Cinnamon: Contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Eggs: A good source of protein and healthy fats.
- Butter: Provides necessary fats and contributes to the pie’s richness.
Dietary Information:
- Vegetarian: Yes
- Contains Gluten: From the flour
- Contains Dairy: From butter
- Contains Eggs: Present in the dough and for brushing
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 20g
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: You can freeze the baked pie for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for a freshly baked taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s made with simple, everyday ingredients.
- The buttery crust is perfectly balanced by the sweet, tangy apples.
- The recipe is easy to follow, even for beginners.
- It’s versatile and can be served warm or cold.
- The delightful aroma while baking will fill your home with cozy comfort.
Conclusion:
This Apple Cinnamon Pie is an ideal dessert for family gatherings or when you crave something sweet and satisfying. With its crisp, flaky crust and spiced apple filling, it’s a timeless classic that never disappoints. The preparation is simple, and the result is a delicious pie that everyone will love. Make it ahead of time or bake it fresh for your next get-together—it’s guaranteed to be a hit!
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other types of apples?
- Yes, you can use any apple variety, but tart apples like Granny Smith work best to balance the sweetness.
- Can I make the dough in advance?
- Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to 2 days in advance and store it in the fridge until ready to use.
- Can I freeze the unbaked pie?
- Yes, you can assemble the pie and freeze it before baking. Just bake from frozen, adding 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
- What if I don’t have vanilla sugar?
- You can substitute it with an additional tablespoon of regular sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Can I make this gluten-free?
- Yes, simply replace the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.