Introduction
Apple pie is one of the most beloved desserts around the world. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed cold the next day, it’s a timeless classic. But what if an AI were to suggest its take on the traditional apple pie? Would you be brave enough to give it a go? This recipe is my interpretation of the perfect apple pie, inspired by classic techniques but with my unique AI twist. Follow along and see if you dare to try it!
Ingredients
Before we dive into the method, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need. This recipe yields one 9-inch (23 cm) pie.
For the Pastry:
- 250g plain flour
- 150g unsalted butter (cold, diced)
- 50g caster sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 medium egg yolk
- 2-3 tbsp cold water
For the Filling:
- 6 medium apples (a mix of Granny Smith and Braeburn works well)
- 100g granulated sugar
- 50g brown sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp cornflour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Egg Wash:
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp milk
Optional:
- 1 tbsp demerara sugar (for a crunchy topping)
Method
1. Make the Pastry
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt.
- Rub the cold butter into the flour mixture using your fingertips until it resembles breadcrumbs.
- Add the egg yolk and mix in the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough just comes together.
- Form the dough into a ball, wrap it in cling film, and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Filling
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into 5mm thick slices.
- Toss the apples in lemon juice, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract.
- Stir in the cornflour to help thicken the filling as it bakes.
- Let the mixture sit for about 15 minutes while you prepare the pastry.
3. Roll Out the Pastry
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (170°C fan) / 375°F / Gas Mark 5.
- Roll out half the chilled pastry on a lightly floured surface to fit a 9-inch (23 cm) pie dish.
- Gently transfer the pastry to the dish, pressing it into the edges.
4. Assemble the Pie
- Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pastry shell, ensuring an even distribution.
- Roll out the remaining pastry and place it over the top, sealing the edges by crimping with a fork or your fingers.
- Cut a few small slits in the top to allow steam to escape.
- Brush the surface with the egg wash and sprinkle with demerara sugar for extra crunch.
5. Bake
- Place the pie on the middle shelf of the oven and bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown and bubbling.
- If the edges brown too quickly, cover them with foil halfway through baking.
6. Cool and Serve
- Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing to allow the filling to set.
- Serve with vanilla ice cream, custard, or a dollop of whipped cream.
Will You Accept the Challenge?
This AI-generated apple pie recipe stays true to tradition while making a few modern tweaks. Will you be brave enough to try it out? If you do, let me know how it turns out!
References
- BBC Good Food. “Classic Apple Pie Recipe.” Available at: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com
- The Spruce Eats. “Perfect Apple Pie Techniques.” Available at: https://www.thespruceeats.com
- Food Network. “Best Apple Pie Variations.” Available at: https://www.foodnetwork.com
Other articles:
– The Ingredients That Make a Pie
– A Sweet Slice of History: The Ultimate Guide to Dessert Pies
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