When the Lenten season rolls around, many of us are on the lookout for delightful yet simple recipes that align with our culinary traditions. One such favorite is the Lenten Apple Pie. This dessert features wholesome apples, a touch of sweetness, and a hint of warm spices, making it a perfect treat for any gathering or quiet evening at home. Its warm, comforting flavors pair excellently with a dollop of ice cream or a sprig of mint, making it a versatile dessert for both special occasions and everyday indulgences.
What Goes into This Lenten Apple Pie
To prepare this scrumptious dessert, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 medium apples
- 150 ml juice (your choice, apple or orange works well)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 150 g wheat flour
- 100 g sugar
- 50 ml vegetable oil
- Cinnamon to taste
- Vanilla to taste
- 1 teaspoon sugar (for caramel crust)
- 100 ml vegetable oil (for caramel crust)
Cooking Lenten Apple Pie: Step by Step
- Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit).
- In a large bowl, mix all the dry ingredients except for the flour. This includes sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, combine the juice and the 50 ml of vegetable oil. Then, take this mixture and gradually add it to the dry ingredients.
- Sift the flour into the mixture slowly while whisking thoroughly until the batter becomes smooth.
- Wash the apples, slice them thinly, and gently fold them into your batter. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the apples to soften slightly.
- Grease an ovenproof dish with oil, then pour in the batter. Bake for around 30 minutes, and cover with foil if the apples start to brown too quickly.
- Prepare the caramel crust by mixing 100 ml of vegetable oil with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Once the pie is out of the oven, pour this mixture on top and return the pie to the oven for another 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve warm or chilled. It’s delightful on its own or garnished with mint leaves or a scoop of ice cream.
The Best Way to Serve It
When it comes to serving your Lenten Apple Pie, a little creativity goes a long way! This dessert can be enjoyed warm, straight from the oven, or allow it to cool and serve it chilled.
For an extra touch, you can dust the top with powdered sugar or add a dollop of whipped cream/ice cream. Fresh mint leaves make for a lovely garnish and elevate the dish’s presentation. Pair this pie with a slightly spiced tea or warm cider for a comforting combination that’s sure to impress your guests!
Helpful Tricks for Lenten Apple Pie
- Choose the Right Apples: For maximum flavor, go with a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
- Make it Your Own: Feel free to add nuts or raisins to the batter for added texture. A sprinkle of nutmeg can also enhance the spice profile.
Lenten Apple Pie FAQs
Q: Can I use different types of fruit?
A: Absolutely! While apples are traditional, pears or mixed berries can also create a delightful variation.
Q: How should I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They should stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I prepare this pie in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the batter and get the apples ready ahead of time. Assemble and bake just before serving for the best texture.
If you’re looking for a delicious yet simple dessert that captures the essence of home cooking, look no further than this Lenten Apple Pie. It’s easy to make and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Give it a try, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors it brings!
Lenten Apple Pie
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit).
- In a large bowl, mix all the dry ingredients except for the flour: sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, and vanilla.
- In a separate bowl, combine the juice and the 50 ml of vegetable oil. Gradually add this mixture to the dry ingredients.
- Sift the flour into the mixture slowly while whisking thoroughly until the batter is smooth.
- Wash the apples, slice them thinly, and gently fold them into the batter. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes.
- Grease an ovenproof dish with oil and pour in the batter.
- Bake for around 30 minutes, covering with foil if the apples start to brown too quickly.
- Prepare the caramel crust by mixing the 100 ml of vegetable oil with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Once the pie is out of the oven, pour this mixture on top and return to the oven for another 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve warm or let it cool and serve it chilled. Garnish with mint leaves or a scoop of ice cream.