Christmas baking is a heartwarming tradition that brings families together, filling homes with the fragrance of freshly baked treats and the joy of the holiday season. Among the delightful Polish Christmas recipes, “Szarlotka Na Ciepło” stands out as a cozy and delicious choice. This Warm Apple Pie recipe combines the comforting flavors of cinnamon-spiced apples with a buttery crust, creating a delightful dessert perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy night in.
Title: Szarlotka Na Ciepło Warm Apple Pie
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, chilled and diced
– 1 large egg
For the Filling:
– 6-7 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9-inch pie dish.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt for the crust. Add the chilled butter pieces and using a pastry cutter or your hands, work the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Beat the egg and gradually incorporate it into the flour mixture. Mix until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a ball, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. While the dough is chilling, prepare the apple filling. In another bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and cornstarch until well combined.
5. Take the chilled dough out of the refrigerator and divide it into two halves – one slightly larger than the other. Roll out the larger portion on a floured surface to fit the bottom of the pie dish and transfer it carefully into the dish.
6. Spoon the prepared apple filling onto the crust, spreading it evenly. Roll out the remaining dough and place it over the filling to create the pie’s top. Pinch the edges together to seal the pie.
7. Cut a few slits on the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking. Optionally, brush the crust with a beaten egg for a shiny finish.
8. Bake the Szarlotka Na Ciepło in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly.
9. Once baked, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy it warm on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Szarlotka Na Ciepło Warm Apple Pie, a traditional Polish Christmas dessert that brings the essence of the holiday season to your table. This cozy treat is sure to evoke feelings of warmth and togetherness, making it a perfect addition to your festive celebrations or a sweet ending to a cozy night at home. Enjoy the flavors of spiced apples and buttery crust in every bite, creating memories to cherish for years to come.
