Spiced Apple Pie with Džiugas Cheese Topping

This delightful spiced apple pie combines the aromatic flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg with the rich, savory touch of Džiugas cheese. It features a buttery crust made with flour, margarine, buttermilk, and a hint of salt, creating a flaky pastry that complements the sweet and spicy apple filling. The filling combines tender apple slices with a blend of sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg, all topped with more Džiugas cheese for an added layer of flavor. A lattice crust made from the same dough is brushed with sugar and baked to a golden perfection, creating a beautiful presentation. This pie is a wonderful balance of sweet and savory, making it a versatile dessert for any occasion. Not only does it fill the air with its tempting aroma, but its unique blend of ingredients also makes it a memorable treat. Whether enjoyed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, it's a dessert that stands out. The addition of Džiugas cheese gives it a distinctive twist that will surprise and delight your taste buds.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• For the Dough:

  • 280g flour
  • 200g margarine or butter
  • 80g buttermilk
  • 50g grated Džiugas cheese
  • 1 tsp salt

• For the Filling:

  • 720g apples (sliced, cored)
  • 65g sugar
  • 50g grated Džiugas cheese
  • 50g butter
  • 34g flour
  • 2 tbsp water
  • 1 tbsp sugar
  • 3/4 tbsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tbsp ground nutmeg

Preparation Time

Total time: 110 minutes (includes preparation and cooking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough: Combine the flour, margarine (or butter), buttermilk, and salt in a mixing bowl. Add the grated Džiugas cheese and knead the mixture into a smooth dough.
2. Divide and Chill: Split the dough into two equal parts. Wrap each in plastic wrap and refrigerate until firm.
3. Mix the Filling Spices: In a separate bowl, combine half of the sugar with the flour, cinnamon, and ground nutmeg.
4. Coat the Apples: Add the sliced apples to the spice mixture, ensure they're evenly coated.
5. Prepare the Dough Base: Roll out one portion of the dough and line a pie dish, ensuring the edges are even.
6. Add the Filling: Spread the apple mixture over the dough in the pie dish. Sprinkle with grated Džiugas cheese and scatter small butter pieces over the top.
7. Create the Lattice Top: Roll out the second dough portion and cut into thin strips. Lay these strips over the pie in a crisscross pattern.
8. Brush and Sugar the Lattice: Using a damp brush, coat the lattice with water, then sprinkle the remaining sugar on top.
9. Bake the Pie: Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F). Bake the pie for 45–50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
10. Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm as is or with your favorite topping.

Tips

• Substitute Margarine: For a richer flavor, replace margarine with high-quality butter.
• Enhancing Flavor: Try adding a dash of vanilla extract to the apple mixture for added depth.
• Dough Handling: Ensure that the dough is chilled sufficiently to make it easier to handle and less sticky.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approx. 350 per serving
• Protein: 5g
• Fats: 18g
• Carbs: 40g

Variations

• Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of regular flour.
• Vegan Twist: Use a plant-based margarine and a vegan cheese alternative.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream.
• Enjoy with a side of fresh berries for added tartness.

Best Places

• Ladurée - Parisian for its classic apple desserts in a chic setting. Location: 75 Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Paris, France.
• Tartine Bakery - Renowned for its exquisite pastries and pies. Location: 600 Guerrero St, San Francisco, USA.
• Pasticceria Marchesi - Offers authentic Italian pies and cakes. Location: Via Monte Napoleone, 9, Milan, Italy.
• Winkel 43 - Famous for its traditional Dutch apple pie. Location: Noordermarkt 43, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• Café Central - Historic ambiance with delightful pastries. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
• The Pie Hole - Creative takes on pie classics, both savory and sweet. Location: 714 Traction Ave, Los Angeles, USA.
• De Bakkerswinkel - Cozy spot for fresh-baked delicacies. Location: Warmoesstraat 69, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• Pieminister - Known for unique pie flavors and British charm. Location: 24 Stokes Croft, Bristol, UK.
• Blé Sucré - Offers a blend of tradition and innovation in pastries. Location: 7 Rue Antoine Vollon, Paris, France.
• Little Pie Company - Beloved for its comforting and delicious pies. Location: 424 W 43rd St, New York, USA.