Let’s welcome the Christmas spirit with a delightful Swedish baking tradition, the äppelmospaj or Apple Sauce Pie. This festive treat perfectly captures the cozy warmth of the holidays and the comforting flavors of sweet apples and a buttery crust. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply indulge in a delicious dessert, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your home this holiday season.
**Ingredients:**
– 6-7 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
– 1 cup sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 pre-made pie crust, room temperature
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Filling:**
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, flour, and vanilla extract. Toss the mixture together until the apples are well coated with the sugar and spices.
2. **Assemble the Pie:**
Place the pre-made pie crust in a deep-dish pie plate. Gently press the crust into the bottom and up the sides of the plate. Trim any excess crust hanging over the edge of the plate.
3. **Fill the Crust:**
Pour the apple mixture into the prepared pie crust, spreading it out evenly. You can arrange the apple slices in a decorative pattern if you wish.
4. **Add the Top Crust:**
Roll out the second pie crust and place it over the apple filling. Trim any excess crust hanging over the edges and crimp the top and bottom crusts together to seal the pie.
5. **Ventilation:**
Using a sharp knife, make several small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking. This will help prevent the pie from becoming too soggy.
6. **Bake the Pie:**
Place the assembled pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
7. **Cool and Serve:**
Once the pie is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired.
The äppelmospaj or Apple Sauce Pie is a wonderful addition to any holiday gathering, offering a taste of Scandinavian tradition and the sweet flavors of spiced apples in a golden crust. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this delicious dessert, and savor the magic of Christmas with every bite. Enjoy baking and happy holidays!
