Apple Cinnamon Pie

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:

  1. Prepare the Filling:
    • Peel and slice the apples.
    • Toss the apple slices with lemon juice, sugar, and cinnamon. Set aside.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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:

  1. It’s made with simple, everyday ingredients.
  2. The buttery crust is perfectly balanced by the sweet, tangy apples.
  3. The recipe is easy to follow, even for beginners.
  4. It’s versatile and can be served warm or cold.
  5. 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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. Can I make this gluten-free?
    • Yes, simply replace the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.