Apple Slices

Apple Slices Recipe - Wholesome and Flavorful Dessert from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 30 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 8

Introduction

This delightful recipe for Apple Slices offers a twist on the classic apple pie, transforming it into a more shareable and convenient form. Perfect for gatherings, picnics, or a cozy night in, these apple slices combine the comforting flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and apple, enveloped in a flaky, buttery crust. With a hint of lemon to elevate the taste and a sweet icing to top it off, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser.

History

The concept of baking apples in pastry dates back centuries, with each culture adding its unique twist. This particular recipe, with its use of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, hints at American culinary traditions, likely evolving from early apple pie recipes brought over by European settlers. Over time, the recipe has been adapted to suit modern tastes and conveniences, resulting in this delightful version that balances tradition with contemporary appeal.

Ingredients

2 cups flour
1 tsp salt
1 cup shortening
2 beaten egg yolks
1 tsp lemon juice
5 tbsp water
8 large apples, sliced
1 cup granulated sugar
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 tsp cinnamon
0.5 tsp nutmeg

Icing

0.75 cup powdered sugar
2 tbsp butter
1 tsp vanilla
0.25 cup warm cream

How to prepare

Crumble flour, salt, and shortening together, similar to making pie dough.
Combine lemon juice, water, and beaten egg yolks, then add to the flour mixture to create a soft dough.
Mix the apples with the remaining ingredients.
Divide the dough into two portions, then roll out one portion at a time and fit it into a pan, bringing it up on the sides.
Arrange the apples in a row on the bottom crust and cover them with the top crust.
Bake at 375°F (191°C) for 40 minutes.
While still warm, brush with a thin icing made by mixing the listed ingredients.
Cut into squares.

Variations

Consider adding a layer of caramel or a sprinkle of chopped nuts between the apple layer and the top crust for a twist. For a less sweet option, reduce the sugar in the apple mixture and omit the icing.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best results, use a mix of tart and sweet apples to create a more complex flavor profile. Keeping the apple slices thin and uniform ensures they cook evenly. When making the crust, ensure the shortening is cold to achieve that perfect flaky texture. Lastly, don't overwork the dough to keep it tender.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these apple slices warm or at room temperature for the best flavor. They pair wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special touch.

Cooking Techniques

The key technique in this recipe is creating a flaky pastry crust, achieved by cutting the shortening into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs. Another important technique is rolling the dough evenly for a consistent bake.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a healthier version, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and use a plant-based shortening. The granulated sugar can be replaced with coconut sugar for a lower glycemic index.

Make Ahead Tips

The dough can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight, and the apple mixture can be prepared a few hours in advance. Assemble just before baking to prevent the crust from becoming soggy.

Presentation Ideas

Cut the apple slices into decorative shapes with a cookie cutter for special occasions. A light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce can add an elegant touch.

Pairing Recommendations

A cup of strong coffee or a glass of dessert wine like Moscato pairs beautifully with the sweet and spicy flavors of these apple slices.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover apple slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (177°C) for 10 minutes to crisp up the crust.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of these apple slices contains approximately 400 calories. The majority of these calories come from the carbohydrates and fats, making it a rich, indulgent treat.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of these apple slices contains approximately 60 grams of carbohydrates. The majority comes from the flour and apples, providing both simple and complex carbohydrates for energy.

Fats

This recipe contains about 20 grams of fat per serving, primarily from the shortening and butter used in the crust and icing. These fats contribute to the rich flavor and tender texture of the dessert.

Proteins

Each serving offers around 3 grams of protein, coming mainly from the flour and egg yolks. While not a significant source of protein, it contributes to the overall nutritional profile of the dish.

Vitamins and minerals

Apples are a good source of vitamin C and potassium, while the egg yolks provide vitamins D and B12, along with minerals like selenium. The spices, although used in small amounts, add trace amounts of antioxidants and minerals.

Alergens

This recipe contains common allergens such as wheat (gluten) and eggs. It also contains dairy in the icing, which can be substituted for those with lactose intolerance.

Summary

Overall, these apple slices offer a mix of carbohydrates, fats, and a small amount of protein, along with essential vitamins and minerals from the apples and egg yolks. While indulgent, they can fit into a balanced diet as an occasional treat.

Summary

This Apple Slices recipe offers a delightful take on traditional apple pie, perfect for sharing and enjoying on any occasion. With its rich flavors, tender crust, and sweet icing, it's sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. By following the tips and variations provided, you can customize the recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs, making it a versatile addition to your baking repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I had just finished helping my neighbor Mrs. Jenkins with her garden. As a thank you, she invited me into her cozy kitchen for a cup of tea.

As we sat at her kitchen table sipping our tea, Mrs. Jenkins began to reminisce about her own grandmother and the delicious apple slices she used to make. She described the buttery crust, the sweet cinnamon apples, and the crunchy topping that made them so irresistible.

I was captivated by her description and begged her to share the recipe with me. Mrs. Jenkins chuckled and agreed, pulling out a worn recipe card from her recipe box. She explained that the recipe had been passed down through her family for generations, and she was happy to pass it on to me.

I eagerly copied down the recipe, making notes on the margins and asking Mrs. Jenkins questions about the ingredients and techniques. She patiently answered all my inquiries, sharing tips and tricks that had been handed down to her from her own grandmother.

Once I had the recipe in hand, I couldn't wait to try it out. I rushed home and gathered all the ingredients, carefully following the instructions on the recipe card. The kitchen was filled with the warm, comforting scent of apples and cinnamon as the apple slices baked in the oven.

When the timer dinged, I pulled the pan out of the oven and eagerly cut into the warm apple slices. The crust was perfectly flaky, the apples tender and sweet, and the topping golden and crunchy. I took a bite and closed my eyes, savoring the familiar flavors that reminded me of Mrs. Jenkins' kitchen and her stories of her grandmother.

From that day on, apple slices became a staple in my own kitchen. I made them for family gatherings, potlucks, and even just as a special treat for myself. Each time I baked a batch, I thought of Mrs. Jenkins and the bond we had formed over a shared love of cooking and family traditions.

As the years passed, I continued to make apple slices, tweaking the recipe here and there to suit my own tastes. I experimented with different types of apples, adjusted the amount of cinnamon, and even added a sprinkle of nutmeg for extra flavor.

One day, my own granddaughter sat at my kitchen table, her eyes wide with curiosity as she watched me mix the dough for apple slices. She asked me how I had learned to make them, and I smiled, thinking back to that warm summer day with Mrs. Jenkins.

I handed her the recipe card, now worn and stained with years of use, and told her the story of how I had come to learn the recipe for apple slices. I explained how cooking and sharing recipes had brought me closer to friends and family, and how each dish carried with it a special memory or story.

As my granddaughter took the recipe card from my hands, I saw a spark of excitement in her eyes. I knew that she would carry on the tradition of making apple slices, just as I had learned to do all those years ago. And I couldn't wait to sit at her kitchen table one day, sipping tea and sharing stories of our shared love of cooking and family.