If you’re in search of a dessert that’s both quick to prepare and irresistibly delicious, this apple pie is your answer! Featuring a tender, aromatic apple topping and a fluffy, vanilla-scented dough, this pie is perfect for busy days or impromptu gatherings. The best part? It disappears from the table in a flash.
Ingredients
For the Apple Filling:
- Apple: 1 medium-sized apple, thinly sliced
- Lemon juice: From half a lemon (to prevent browning)
- Sugar: 1 tablespoon
- Butter: 1 tablespoon (unsalted)
- Cinnamon: A sprinkle, to taste
- Apricot jam: 1 tablespoon (for a glossy finish)
For the Pie Dough:
- Eggs: 3 large
- Sugar: 150 grams
- Salt: A pinch
- Vanilla sugar or essence: 8 grams or 1 tablespoon
- Oil: 120 ml (neutral, like vegetable or sunflower oil)
- Milk: 150 ml (whole or any milk of choice)
- Flour: 250 grams (all-purpose)
- Baking powder: 16 grams (approximately 1 tablespoon)
- Powdered sugar: For decoration
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling
- Slice and prep: Thinly slice the apple and drizzle lemon juice over it to keep it fresh and prevent browning.
- Caramelize the apples: In a non-stick pan over medium heat, melt the butter and sugar until the mixture begins to bubble and turn golden.
- Cook the apples: Add the apple slices to the pan, stirring occasionally until they soften and turn golden. Sprinkle a bit of cinnamon for a warm, aromatic flavor.
- Add jam: Stir in the apricot jam, coating the apples evenly to create a glossy and flavorful topping. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Pie Dough
- Whisk the eggs: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs with sugar and a pinch of salt until the mixture becomes foamy and light.
- Add wet ingredients: Mix in the vanilla sugar or essence, oil, and milk, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Incorporate dry ingredients: Sift the flour and baking powder over the liquid mixture, folding gently to create a smooth, lump-free batter.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Pie
- Prepare the pan: Grease and flour a cake pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Pour the batter: Transfer the dough to the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Add the apple topping: Arrange the caramelized apple slices on top of the batter in a decorative pattern.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F) and bake the pie for 20-25 minutes. The pie is ready when it turns golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
- Cool the pie: Allow the pie to cool for a few minutes before removing it from the pan.
- Dust with powdered sugar: Sprinkle powdered sugar over the top for a classic finish. Slice and serve while warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Tips
- Apple variety: Use a sweet-tart apple variety like Granny Smith, Fuji, or Honeycrisp for the best flavor balance.
- Enhance the spice: For added depth, try including nutmeg or allspice alongside the cinnamon in the filling.
- Jam alternatives: If apricot jam isn’t available, substitute with peach, apple, or orange marmalade.
- Even baking: Rotate the pan halfway through baking to ensure the pie bakes evenly.
Substitutions and Variations
- Fruits: Swap apples with pears, peaches, or plums for a seasonal twist.
- Dairy-free: Replace butter with a plant-based alternative and use almond or oat milk instead of regular milk.
- Sugar-free: Use a natural sweetener like honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute in the filling and dough.
- Nut topping: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or almonds over the apple slices before baking for extra crunch.
FAQs
Can I make this pie ahead of time?
Yes! This pie can be baked a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature and reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) for 5-10 minutes before serving.
How do I prevent the apples from sinking?
To avoid sinking, lightly coat the apple slices with flour before arranging them on top of the batter. This creates a barrier that keeps them from sinking into the dough.
What type of pan should I use?
A round cake pan, approximately 22-24 cm (9 inches) in diameter, works best for this recipe. A springform pan makes it easier to release the pie after baking.
Can I use pre-made pie crust?
This recipe is designed for a soft cake-like base, but if you prefer a crusty pie, you can use pre-made puff pastry or shortcrust dough as a base.
Is this pie freezer-friendly?
Yes! Allow the pie to cool completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature and reheat before serving.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Based on 10 Servings)
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Protein: 4 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Sugar: 26 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sodium: 70 mg
Conclusion
This quick and easy apple pie recipe proves that delicious desserts don’t have to take hours to prepare. With its caramelized apple topping and tender, vanilla-scented base, this pie is a versatile and crowd-pleasing treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re entertaining guests or indulging in a quiet moment at home, this dessert is sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.