Among the myriad of delightful desserts, the Apple Pie with Custard Filling holds a special place in my heart. This version, combining the classic charm of apple pie with the creamy luxury of custard, creates a dessert that's both comforting and indulgent. It's the kind of treat that evokes nostalgia and warmth, perfect for any occasion or simply a cozy night in.
Why You'll Love This: The blend of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and smooth, velvety custard nestled within a flaky, buttery crust offers a symphony of textures and flavors. The additional step of grating frozen pastry on top adds a beautiful, rustic touch, while almond flakes provide a delightful crunch. This apple pie version elevates the traditional recipe to new heights of deliciousness.
Perfect Occasion: Ideal for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or when you're in need of a comforting, homemade treat. It's a versatile dessert that can be served at brunches, tea times, or as the grand finale to a dinner party. The apple and custard combination is a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to satisfy both traditionalists and those seeking a twist on the classic.
Decoration Tips: A dusting of powdered sugar just before serving adds an elegant, snowy finish, while the almond flakes toast to a golden hue, offering a beautiful contrast. For an extra special touch, serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, making it irresistible.
Recipe:
Shortcrust Pastry:
- Combine 2 cups (about 350g) of flour, ½ cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 200g of butter, and 4 egg yolks to form a dough. Divide into two parts, chilling the smaller portion in the freezer and rolling out the larger one to fit a buttered and bread crumb-dusted 25x25 cm baking dish. Prick with a fork and refrigerate for 30 minutes before baking at 180°C (356°F) for 12-15 minutes until lightly golden.
Filling:
- Peel and dice 2 kg of apples, sweeten with a tablespoon of sugar and a tablespoon of cinnamon, and sauté until the water evaporates. Cool.
- Prepare 2 packets of cream-flavored custard in 800ml of milk, cover with cling film to prevent a skin from forming, and keep warm.
Assembly:
- Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of breadcrumbs over the pre-baked crust, layer with the cooled apples, and gently spread the warm custard on top. Grate the frozen dough over the custard, sprinkle with almond flakes, and bake for about 45 minutes at 180°C (356°F), placing the rack just below the middle of the oven.
Serving:
- Allow to cool before dusting with powdered sugar for a sweet, finished look.
This Apple Pie with Custard Filling is a testament to the beauty of baking, where simple ingredients come together to create something truly magical. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome of this beloved recipe.