This article provides an easy, precise, and concise apple pie recipe. To make the apple pie, mix the apples with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice, and place the mixture in the prepared crust.
Top with a second crust, and bake for an hour. If you’re looking to impress your guests or satisfy a craving for a classic dessert, there’s nothing quite like a homemade apple pie. Few things can beat the warm, sweet smell of a freshly baked apple pie filling a kitchen.
Whether it’s served hot or cold, with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, this american staple is always a crowd-pleaser. The recipe for this apple pie is uncomplicated, and with just a few steps, anyone can create an impressive dessert. So go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you.
Credit: www.pillsbury.com
Ingredients
List Of Ingredients Required
To make the perfect pie de manzana, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
- 2/3 cup solid vegetable shortening
- 6-7 tbsp cold water
- 9 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 1/2 pounds granny smith apples
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Importance Of Each Ingredient In The Recipe
Each ingredient in the pie de manzana recipe has a specific purpose essential to the dish. Here’s why:
- Flour and salt: The main dry ingredients that create the crust’s structure.
- Vegetable shortening and unsalted butter: Adds fat to the dough, making the crust flaky and tender.
- Cold water: Helps bind the dough ingredients together without altering their texture.
- Granny smith apples: The filling’s star ingredient, providing tartness and sweetness with a firm texture that holds up well during baking.
- Sugar and brown sugar: Enhances the apples’ sweetness and balances the tartness.
- Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: Adds warmth and complexity to the apple filling.
- Lemon juice: Prevents the filling from being overly sweet and adds a tartness that complements the apples.
Best Places To Source Ingredients
To make the best pie de manzana, source high-quality ingredients from trustworthy suppliers. Here are some of the best places to find ingredients:
- Flour and salt: Available at any grocery store or supermarket.
- Vegetable shortening and unsalted butter: Look for high-quality brands in the baking aisle of your grocery store.
- Cold water: From your tap works, but you can also use filtered water for extra purity.
- Granny smith apples: Check your local farmer’s markets or apple orchards for fresh, locally grown apples that are in season.
- Sugar and brown sugar: Try using organic and non-gmo varieties, available at health food stores or online retailers.
- Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: Buy high-quality spices from specialty spice shops or gourmet food stores.
- Lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice works best but if it’s not available, squeezed versions of bottled lemon juice can be used.
Make sure to use all fresh and high-quality ingredients to make a delicious pie de manzana that is unforgettable for everyone.
Preparation
Pie De Manzana Recipe: Preparation
Baking a delicious pie de manzana is not an easy task, but with the right ingredients, preparation, and recipe, you can make the perfect dessert in no time. In this section, we will go over the step-by-step guide to preparing the pie crust and apple filling, as well as tips for achieving the perfect crust and filling.
Step-By-Step Guide To Preparing The Pie Crust
The pie crust is the foundation of your pie de manzana, so it’s important to get it right. Follow these steps to create the perfect crust:
- Mix 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar in a large bowl.
- Add 1 cup of cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces, and mix until the mixture forms pea-sized pieces.
- Gradually add 1/4 to 1/2 cup of ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough starts to come together.
- Gather the dough into a ball and divide it in half. Flatten each half into a disk and wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before rolling out.
Step-By-Step Guide To Preparing The Apple Filling
The apple filling is what gives your pie de manzana that delicious flavor and aroma. Here’s how you can make the perfect apple filling:
- Peel, core, and slice 6-7 medium-sized granny smith apples into thin slices.
- Toss the apple slices with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg in a bowl.
- Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Tips For The Perfect Pie Crust And Filling
Follow these tips to ensure that your pie de manzana turns out perfectly:
- Use cold ingredients when making the pie crust to prevent the butter from melting and creating a tough crust.
- Make sure to refrigerate the dough for at least an hour before rolling it out, so it’s easier to work with and doesn’t shrink while baking.
- Bake the pie on the bottom rack of the oven to ensure that the crust is fully cooked and the filling is perfectly set.
- Don’t overfill the pie with the apple mixture, or it may overflow and create a mess in the oven.
- To achieve a beautifully golden crust, brush the top of the pie with egg wash (1 egg beaten with 1 tablespoon of water) before baking.
Now that you have the recipe for the perfect pie de manzana and know how to prepare the crust and filling, you can impress your friends and family with your baking skills. Happy baking!
Assembling And Baking The Pie
Step-By-Step Guide To Assembling And Baking The Pie
Before you start assembling and baking the pie, make sure you have prepared the filling, dough, and pie dish according to the recipe instructions. Here’s your step-by-step guide to assembling and baking the pie:
- Preheat the oven to 375°f (190°c).
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface, making sure it is larger than the pie dish.
- Carefully transfer the dough to the pie dish and press it down gently, ensuring there is no air trapped underneath.
- Trim the excess dough around the edges of the dish, leaving around half an inch border.
- Fill the pie dish with the prepared apple filling, ensuring even distribution.
- Roll out another piece of dough and cut it into thin strips to create a lattice over the pie filling.
- Press the edges of the lattice strips into the border of the bottom crust.
- Brush the lattice with milk or beaten egg.
- Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely before serving.
Tips For Getting The Perfect Golden Brown Crust
A perfect golden brown pie crust is not only visually pleasing but also enhances the taste of the pie. Here are some tips to help you achieve a beautiful, flaky and golden brown crust:
- Use cold butter, shortening, or lard to create the dough. These fats will create pockets of steam as they melt, resulting in a flaky crust.
- Add a teaspoon of vinegar to the dough to help tenderize the gluten and prevent it from becoming too tough.
- Chill the dough in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.
- Use a light touch when handling the dough to prevent it from becoming overworked.
- Brush the crust with milk or beaten egg to create a shiny and golden brown finish.
- Place the pie dish on a baking sheet to prevent the filling from bubbling over and making a mess in the oven.
How To Tell When The Pie Is Ready
Determining when the pie is ready can be challenging, but indicators like the color and consistency of the crust, and the way the filling bubbles can help you tell when the pie is done. Here are some tips to help you determine when the pie is ready:
- Look for a golden brown color on the pie crust. If the crust is too pale, it may not be fully baked.
- Check the filling for bubbles that burst and thicken as it cooks. When the filling is done, it should be thick and slightly translucent.
- Insert a knife into the filling near the center of the pie. If it comes out clean, the filling is ready.
- Let the pie cool completely before slicing it. This will give the filling time to set, making it easier to slice and serve.
By following these tips and the step-by-step guide, you can make a delicious pie with a perfect golden brown crust. Happy baking!
Serving And Storing
Tips For Serving The Pie De Manzana
Pie de manzana is a classic and timeless dessert that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of age. The best way to serve this tasty dessert is by following the proper guidelines so that everyone can fully savour it. Below are some tips for serving the pie de manzana:
- Cut the pie into equal portions to ensure everyone gets the same amount.
- Warm up the pie before serving so that the crust is crispy, and the filling is tender and juicy.
- Serve the pie with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top to add more flavour to it.
- If you’re serving it for a special event, you can give it a twist by adding some other tasty toppings like caramel syrup, sliced apples, or nuts.
How To Store Leftover Pie
Pie de manzana is the perfect dessert for any occasion, and it can be made in advance so that you have enough for later. However, when you store it, ensure you observe the following guidelines to maintain its freshness and flavour.
- Cover the leftover pie tightly with aluminum foil or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying and absorbing funky odours from the fridge.
- Store the pie in the fridge, where it can stay fresh for three to four days.
- If you want to keep it for longer than four days, you can freeze it. Wrap the pie tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
- To thaw, leave the pie in the fridge overnight. You can then reheat it in the oven, covered with foil, at 350°f for about 10 to 15 minutes.
Best Accompaniments To Serve With The Pie
Pie de manzana is a delicious dessert by itself, but it can be paired with other tasty accompaniments to heighten its flavours. Here are some of the best accompaniments to serve with pie de manzana:
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream: This enhances the pie’s taste by adding a creamy vanilla flavour that complements the warm pie filling.
- Whipped cream: Served with a dollop on top of the pie, whipped cream adds an airy texture and a sweet and creamy flavour that goes well with the pie’s apple filling.
- Caramel syrup: Adding drizzles of caramel syrup to your pie slices adds sweetness and a warm, buttery taste.
- Cheddar cheese: Although it may sound unusual, serving cheddar cheese with apple pie is an american tradition that adds a unique savoury flavour that balances out the sweetness of the pie.
By following these tips, you can prepare and store your pie de manzana to maintain its sweet and delicious flavour. Served with a perfect accompaniment, pie de manzana is sure to be a hit with everyone.
Variations
Creative Variations On The Traditional Recipe
The pie de manzana recipe is a classic dessert, but there are many ways to put a creative spin on it. Here are a few ideas to make your pie de manzana stand out:
- Add some spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice are all great options to add depth of flavor to your pie.
- Incorporate other fruits: Mix it up with different types of apples or add some pears, berries, or even cherries to your filling.
- Use a crumb topping: For a more unique twist, try a crumb topping made with flour, butter, and sugar instead of the traditional pie crust.
- Add nuts: Pecans, walnuts, or almonds can give your pie a satisfying crunch and extra flavor.
Alternative Methods For The Crust And Filling
Want to try something different for your pie de manzana? Check out these alternative methods:
- Use a store-bought crust: If you don’t want to make your own crust, a store-bought alternative will do the trick.
- Make a lattice crust: For the more ambitious bakers, try weaving strips of pie crust to create a visually appealing lattice top.
- Experiment with fillings: Instead of a standard apple filling, try mixing it up with sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or even pumpkin puree. Yum!
How To Make The Recipe Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free, Or Vegan
For those with specific dietary needs, it’s still possible to enjoy a delicious pie de manzana. Here’s how to make it gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan:
- Gluten-free crust: Use almond flour, coconut flour, or a gluten-free all-purpose flour as a substitute for the traditional wheat flour.
- Dairy-free crust: Use coconut oil or a vegan butter substitute instead of butter.
- Vegan filling: Simply swap out the butter for coconut oil, and use a vegan substitute for the eggs, such as flax or chia seeds mixed with water.
With these variations and substitutions, you can easily make a pie de manzana that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions For Pie De Manzana Recipe
What Is Pie De Manzana?
Pie de manzana is a traditional apple pie recipe that originated in spain.
What Ingredients Are Needed To Make Pie De Manzana?
The main ingredients needed to make pie de manzana are apples, cinnamon, sugar, flour, butter, and eggs.
Is Pie De Manzana Difficult To Make?
Pie de manzana is a fairly easy recipe to make, as long as you follow the steps and have the right ingredients.
Can I Use Any Type Of Apples For Pie De Manzana?
You can use any type of apples for pie de manzana, but tart apples like granny smith or honeycrisp work best.
How Do I Make The Crust For Pie De Manzana?
To make the crust for pie de manzana, mix flour, sugar, salt, and butter, and add cold water until it forms a dough.
How Long Does It Take To Bake Pie De Manzana?
Pie de manzana usually takes around 45-50 minutes to bake in the oven at 375°f.
What Can I Serve With Pie De Manzana?
You can serve pie de manzana with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or caramel sauce for added sweetness.
Conclusion
With all the benefits of apples, it’s no wonder the pie de manzana recipe has been a longstanding favorite. There’s something satisfying about the combination of the sweet, sticky filling atop the perfectly golden, flaky crust. Not only does this recipe delight the tastebuds, but it also provides a wealth of nutrients.
Apples contain fiber, vitamins, and minerals that your body needs to function at its best. Plus, making a pie from scratch is a fun way to challenge your culinary skills and impress your family and friends. From selecting the freshest apples to carefully crimping the crust, this recipe encourages attention to detail.
Give it a try and see how rewarding the process can be. And who knows, maybe this pie will become a staple in your household for generations to come.