Õunapirukas - Estonian Apple Pie
Õunapirukas, the beloved Estonian apple pie, is a traditional dessert known for its rich flavors and comforting qualities. With a history deeply rooted in Estonian culture, this pie is often associated with family gatherings and festive occasions. The word "õunapirukas" literally translates to "apple pie" in Estonian, depicting the simple yet delightful nature of this dish. The use of fresh apples, or "õun," combined with the aromatic spices, perfectly encapsulates the essence of Estonian culinary art.
Ingredients
- All-purpose flour - 2 cups
- Sugar - 1 cup
- Butter - 1/2 cup, chilled and cubed
- Baking powder - 1 teaspoon
- Salt - 1/4 teaspoon
- Egg - 1 large
- Vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon
- Milk - 2 tablespoons
- Apples - 4 large, peeled and sliced
- Cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
- Nutmeg - 1/4 teaspoon
- Lemon juice - 1 tablespoon
- Breadcrumbs - 2 tablespoons
Preparation
Preparing the Pastry
To start with the pastry, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a large bowl. Add the chilled butter cubes and rub them into the flour mixture using your fingertips until it resembles breadcrumbs.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, vanilla extract, and milk. Add it to the flour mixture and mix until a dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Preparing the Filling
While the dough is chilling, prepare the filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced apples with cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and the remaining sugar. Toss the apples until they are well coated with the spices.
Assembly and Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the dough from the refrigerator. Divide it into two portions, one slightly larger than the other. Roll out the larger portion on a lightly floured surface to fit your pie dish.
Gently press the rolled dough into the pie dish, ensuring that it covers the bottom and sides. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the base to help absorb excess juices from the apples.
Pour the apple mixture over the crust, spreading it out evenly. Roll out the remaining dough and place it over the top of the filling. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal.
Using a sharp knife, make a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Use a cooking timer to keep track of the time.
Serving and Enjoyment
Once baked, allow the õunapirukas to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. Serve it warm or at room temperature with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an added touch of indulgence. This pie is perfect for enjoying with family and friends, paired with a cup of coffee or tea during an Estonian fika.