B. Step 2: Prepare the Apples
Peel and core the apples. Cut them into wedges or thin slices, depending on your preference. To prevent them from browning, sprinkle them with lemon juice and toss lightly.
3. Preparing the Dough
A. Step 3: Roll out the Puff Pastry
If you are using ready-made puff pastry, roll it out on a floured work surface. Roll it out lightly with a rolling pin to obtain a circle about 30 cm in diameter. If you are making your own pastry, follow your favorite recipe for homemade puff pastry.
B. Step 4: Line the Pan
Place the pastry in a pie pan and press it firmly against the edges. Trim any excess pastry that hangs over the edge of the pan. Prick the bottom of the pastry with a fork to prevent it from rising during baking.
4. Pie Assembly
A. Step 5: Arrange the Apples
Arrange the apples on the pie crust, overlapping them slightly. You can arrange them in concentric circles for an attractive visual effect. Sprinkle the apples with sugar and cinnamon, if you chose to use it.
B. Step 6: Add the Butter
Cut the butter into small pieces and spread them over the apples to make them even more flavorful while cooking.
5. Finishing and Baking
A. Step 7: Brown the Pastry
In a small bowl, beat the egg and lightly brush the edges of the pastry with this mixture. This will give your pie a beautiful golden color.
B. Step 8: Baking
Bake the tart for about 30 to 35 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the pastry is golden brown. Check the doneness by pricking an apple with a knife: it should be tender.
6. Finishing and Presentation
A. Step 9: Glaze the Pie
If desired, prepare a glaze by heating a little apple jelly or applesauce and spreading it over the still-warm pie. This will give it a nice glossy appearance and extra flavor.
B. Step 10: Let Cool
Let the tart cool slightly before removing it from the mold. This will make serving easier. You can enjoy it warm or cold, depending on your preference.
7. Tasting
A. Step 11: Serving
Serve the apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an even more indulgent touch. The combination of the warmth of the pie and the coldness of the ice cream is simply divine.
8. Tips and Tricks
A. Customize the Recipe
Add Dried Fruit: For a touch of crunch, you can add walnuts or slivered almonds to the apples before baking.
Use Other Fruits: This recipe is also delicious with pears, peaches, or even berries.
B. Vegan Version
For a vegan version, replace the butter with margarine or coconut oil, and use an egg substitute like applesauce for the egg wash.
C. Storage
Apple pie keeps well in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days, in an airtight container. You can also freeze it, but it is best eaten fresh to fully appreciate its texture.
