Delicious Apple Pastry

This delightful apple pastry has a tender crust and a delectable filling that's a perfect blend of sweet and tart. The pastry, crafted with care, holds a filling made from juicy apples mixed with a hint of lemon for tanginess. Rich cream and eggs add a luxurious texture, while a glaze of warm apricot jam brings a glistening finish. Whether served as a warm dessert or a cooling treat, it pleases any palate. The aroma of baking apples fills the kitchen, making it an irresistible treat for any gathering. Easy to prepare, it involves a few simple steps but results in a sophisticated pastry. Perfect for tea time, brunch, or as an after-dinner delight, this apple pastry is sure to impress your guests. So roll up your sleeves and get ready to bake a dessert that's a sure crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 100 g butter
• 200 g flour
• 1 small egg
• 50 g sugar
• A pinch of salt
• Grated zest of 1/2 lemon
• 1 tsp water

For the Filling:

• 1 kg tart apples
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 75 g sour cream
• 100 g sugar
• 3 eggs
• 1.5 tbsp apricot jam
• 1 tbsp butter
• A sprinkle of powdered sugar
• 200 g heavy cream
• Nuts (optional)
• 1 tsp vanilla sugar

Preparation Time

Total Time: 90 minutes (Prep Time: 30 minutes, Cook Time: 60 minutes)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Begin by making the dough. Combine butter, flour, sugar, salt, lemon zest, and water. Mix until a smooth dough forms.
2. Wrap the dough and refrigerate it for 30 minutes.
3. Preheat your oven to 200 degrees Celsius.
4. Roll out the chilled dough and press it into a greased baking form, piercing it with a fork.
5. Bake the dough for 10 minutes at 200 degrees Celsius until it's slightly firm.
6. For the filling, peel and core the apples. Grate or finely chop them.
7. In a bowl, combine the apples with lemon juice, half of the sugar, sour cream, and eggs, mixing well.
8. Pour the apple mixture onto the pre-baked crust, spreading evenly.
9. Sprinkle the remaining sugar over the filling.
10. Return the pastry to the oven and bake for 50 minutes until the filling is set.
11. In a small saucepan, heat the apricot jam and butter until smooth.
12. Brush the warm jam mixture over the top of the pastry for a glossy finish.
13. Continue baking for an additional 10 minutes.
14. Turn off the oven and let the pastry sit inside for another 30 minutes to cool down gradually.
15. Once cooled, remove the pastry from the oven. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar.
16. For an indulgent touch, serve with freshly whipped heavy cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
17. If desired, garnish with chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
18. Make sure to cut into generous portions to showcase the sumptuous filling.
19. Enjoy this baked treat with loved ones, savoring every bite.
20. Store leftovers in a cool place, as the flavors deepen over time.

Tips

• For a nuttier flavor, sprinkle a few chopped walnuts or almonds in the filling.
• Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to complement the tartness of the apples.
• Ensure even baking by checking the pastry midway for browning.

Nutritions

• Calories: ~320 per serving
• Protein: 5g
• Fats: 20g
• Carbs: 32g

Variations

• Substitute pears for apples for a different twist on this classic recipe.
• Use a gluten-free flour blend to cater to dietary requirements, ensuring an equally delightful pastry.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a warm cup of chai or a rich coffee for a balanced flavor experience.
• Fresh fruits like berries or sliced kiwis add a vibrant burst of color on the side.

Best Places

1. Café de la Amour - Known for exquisite pastries and a cozy atmosphere. Location: 22 Rue des Martyrs, Paris, France.
2. Apple Delight Kitchen - A popular spot for creative apple desserts. Location: 456 Orchard Road, Singapore, Singapore.
3. Pie Heaven - Offers a wide range of scrumptious pies. Location: 89 Highfield Road, Birmingham, UK.
4. Sweet Aroma Bakery - Famous for their baked delights. Location: 237 Lexington Ave, New York, USA.
5. The Pie Parlor - Known for innovative dessert creations. Location: 7 St Mary's Cathedral, Sydney, Australia.
6. Heavenly Crusts - Offers an array of freshly baked pastries and pies. Location: C/ de Zaragoza, 10, 08026 Barcelona, Spain.
7. The Quirky Baker - A delightful bakery with unique twist on classic pies. Location: 44 Fulton Lane, Dublin, Ireland.
8. Pâtisserie Marmotte - Known for artisanal products made with love. Location: 11 Rue de Sévigné, Lyon, France.
9. Crust & Crumb - Traditional bakery with a global following. Location: 249 Queen St, Toronto, Canada.
10. Pie Perfection - Known for their sophisticated dessert presentations. Location: 101 Svetogorska, Belgrade, Serbia.

Enjoy baking and indulging in this delightful treat!