Classic Apple Pie

Ingredients

While the American Apple Pie traditionally uses a flaky pie crust, this Croatian version incorporates a tender and crumbly pastry crust. Additionally, the Croatian adaptation may include a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavors of the apples. We alse have the original recipe for Apple Pie, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4-5 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced 4-5 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar 1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash) 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional) Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 350 kcal / 1465 KJ
• Fat: 15g (7g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 52g (30g sugars)
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter cubes and use your fingertips to rub the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add cold water, a tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough comes together. Shape the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, combine the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and cornstarch. Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
5. 5.
   On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle large enough to fit your pie dish. Carefully transfer the dough to the dish and press it gently into the bottom and sides.
6. 6.
   Pour the apple mixture into the prepared crust, spreading it evenly.
7. 7.
   Roll out the remaining dough and cut it into thin strips. Create a lattice pattern on top of the apple filling.
8. 8.
   Brush the lattice crust with the beaten egg wash.
9. 9.
   Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
10. 10.
    Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Apples — Choose firm and slightly tart varieties such as Granny Smith or Braeburn for the best flavor and texture.
• Lemon juice — The lemon juice helps prevent the apples from browning and adds a subtle tanginess to the filling.
• Cornstarch — Cornstarch helps thicken the filling and prevents it from becoming too runny.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced flavor, add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger to the apple filling.
• Serve the apple pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast of temperatures.
• If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the pie loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
• Make sure to let the pie cool before slicing to allow the filling to set properly.
• Leftover apple pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Croatian Apple Pie warm or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, lightly dust the pie with powdered sugar just before serving. You can also garnish each slice with a sprig of fresh mint for a touch of elegance.