Kentucky Apple Cheese Pie

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the Lithuanian Obuolių sūris is transformed into a Kentucky-style pie. The original recipe typically uses a yeast dough and is baked in a round shape. However, for the Kentucky Apple Cheese Pie, we have replaced the yeast dough with a buttery pastry crust, commonly used in Southern-style pies. Additionally, we have incorporated the flavors of Kentucky by adding cinnamon and brown sugar to the apple filling, giving it a warm and comforting taste. We alse have the original recipe for Obuolių sūris, so you can check it out.

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
• 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water 1/4 cup (60ml) ice water
• 4 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced 4 large 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 cup (225g) cream cheese, softened 1 cup (225g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 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: 20g (12g saturated)
• Carbohydrates: 40g (20g sugars)
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 0.3g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the cold cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the ice 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 at least 30 minutes.
3. 3.
   Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
4. 4.
   In a separate bowl, toss the sliced apples with brown sugar and cinnamon until well coated.
5. 5.
   In another bowl, beat the cream cheese, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
6. 6.
   Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the dough to the pie dish and press it gently into the bottom and sides.
7. 7.
   Spread the cream cheese mixture evenly over the bottom of the pie crust. Arrange the apple slices on top of the cream cheese layer.
8. 8.
   Fold the edges of the pie crust over the apples, creating a rustic border. Brush the crust with the beaten egg wash.
9. 9.
   Bake the pie for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
10. 10.
    Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired, before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Apples — Choose firm and tart varieties such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best flavor and texture.
• Cream cheese — Make sure to soften the cream cheese at room temperature before using to ensure a smooth and creamy filling.

Tips & Tricks

• For a more pronounced Southern flavor, add a splash of bourbon to the apple filling.
• Serve the pie warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• If you prefer a sweeter pie, increase the amount of granulated sugar in the cream cheese filling.

Serving advice

Serve the Kentucky Apple Cheese Pie warm or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, dust the pie with powdered sugar just before serving. You can also garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a sprinkle of cinnamon.