Apple Pie with Creamy Custard

This delightful apple pie with creamy custard is a wonderful treat that combines the flakiness of buttery pastry with the lusciousness of a homemade custard and the freshness of apples. The pie has a crumbly crust that beautifully complements the velvety filling, making it a favorite for dessert enthusiasts. Apples provide a natural sweetness that enhances the creamy custard's flavor, creating a delectable balance. Easy to make, this pie is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual weekends. It involves preparing two main components: the dough and the custard, both requiring a bit of patience and care. The addition of vanilla enhances the custard's deliciousness, adding a comforting aroma. The final touch of a dusting of powdered sugar creates a dreamy finish. It's a pie that's sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Ingredients

For the Pastry Dough:

350 g flour
1 egg
60 g sour cream
180 g butter
150 g sugar
1.5 tsp baking powder
1 pinch salt

For the Custard:

400 ml milk
1 large egg or 2 small eggs
35-40 g corn starch
70 g sugar
Vanilla extract

For the Apples:

3-4 apples

Preparation Time

Total Time: 90 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dough: Start by cutting the cold butter into small cubes. In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the butter, gently rubbing together to form a crumbly mixture.
Stir in the sugar, then add the sour cream and egg. Mix the ingredients with a spoon or spatula until they start to combine.
Transfer the mixture onto a flat surface and quickly knead it into a smooth dough with your hands. Place the dough in the refrigerator to chill.
Make the Custard: In a saucepan, combine the sugar, egg, and corn starch. Gradually add cold milk, stirring until smooth.
Set the mixture over low heat, stirring consistently until it begins to thicken. Add vanilla extract to taste and mix well.
Prepare the Apples: Peel the apples, removing the cores, and slice them thinly.
Assemble the Pie: Take the chilled dough from the fridge, dividing it into two portions; 1/3 for the top and the rest for the base.
Roll out the larger dough portion and lay it evenly in a pie dish, pressing gently to fit the shape.
Arrange the apple slices over the dough base in a consistent layer.
Pour the warm custard over the arranged apples, spreading it out evenly. Note that the custard will thicken as it cools.
Roll out the remaining dough, cutting into strips or crumbling over the top as a lattice or crumb topping.
Use a fork to neat the edges of the pie.
Bake the Pie: Preheat the oven to 180°C (356°F).
Place the pie in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is set.
Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and dust with powdered sugar while still warm.
Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving for the best texture.
Enjoy your apple pie with creamy custard warm or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream if desired.

Tips

Butter should be very cold for a flakier crust.
For a richer flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the apple layer.
If you prefer a faster top crust, simply crumble the reserved dough instead of rolling it out.
Cook the custard slowly to avoid curdling.

Nutritions

Calories: 320 per serving
Protein: 5g
Fats: 15g
Carbohydrates: 42g

Variations

Substitute apples with pears or peaches for a different fruity flavor.
Use almond or coconut milk in the custard for lactose-free options.
Replace sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Enjoy alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

Best Places

Sweet Treats Cafe - Famous for its inventive twists on classic desserts. Location: 123 Dessert Lane, London, UK.
Heavenly Aroma - A rustic setting known for aromatic pastries. Location: 75 Baker Street, Paris, France.
Apple Delight Bistro - Known for diverse apple pies. Location: 56 Orchard Avenue, New York, USA.
Custard & More - Offers a variety of custard-based desserts. Location: 200 Custard Lane, Sydney, Australia.
Pie's Paradise - Delightful setting with a taste for creative pies. Location: 44 Gourmet Boulevard, Toronto, Canada.
Taste of Home - Renowned for homely and hearty desserts. Location: 80 Comfort Way, Dublin, Ireland.
Crust & Cake Café - Offers a cozy atmosphere with delightful bakes. Location: 23 Pie Street, Wellington, New Zealand.
Golden Apple Inn - Specializes in apple-based dishes. Location: 140 Orchard Drive, Munich, Germany.
Whisk & Bake - Known for its unbeatable pies. Location: 9 Delight Road, Cape Town, South Africa.
Bakers' Retreat - Offers a wide range of dessert pastries. Location: 67 Sweet Tooth Avenue, Tokyo, Japan.

Enjoy creating and sharing this delicious apple pie with creamy custard which beautifully showcases the blend of textures and flavors.