Apple pie is a classic and beloved dessert, but often it is associated with being expensive and time-consuming to make. However, there are variations of apple pie recipes that are perfect for those on a budget or with limited time. A pauper's apple pie recipe is a simple and rustic take on this classic dessert that uses affordable ingredients and requires minimal effort.
Ingredients
The ingredients needed for a pauper's apple pie recipe are easy to find and inexpensive. They include:
- Apples: any variety of apples can be used, but tart apples like Granny Smith are recommended for their flavor and ability to hold their shape when baked.
- Sugar: granulated sugar is used to sweeten the filling.
- Flour: all-purpose flour is used to thicken the filling.
- Cinnamon: ground cinnamon is added for flavor.
- Salt: a pinch of salt enhances the flavors.
- Butter: cold butter is used to create a flaky crust.
- Water: a small amount of water is added to bring the dough together.
Crust
The crust for a pauper's apple pie recipe is simple to make and does not require any specialized equipment. The recipe includes instructions for making a crust from scratch, but a store-bought crust can be used for convenience.
Ingredients for the crust:
- 1 and 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) of cold unsalted butter
- 2-4 tablespoons of ice water
Instructions for making the crust:
1. In a large bowl, mix together the flour, salt, and sugar.
2. Cut the cold butter into small pieces and add them to the bowl.
3. Using a pastry blender or your fingers, work the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Add 2 tablespoons of ice water and mix the dough with a fork until it starts to come together. If the dough is too dry, add another tablespoon of water.
5. Gather the dough into a ball and flatten it into a disc. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Filling
The filling for a pauper's apple pie recipe is straightforward and can be adjusted to suit your tastes. The recipe below is a basic filling that can be customized by adding other spices or ingredients like nutmeg, cloves, or raisins.
Ingredients for the filling:
- 6 cups of sliced apples (about 6-8 medium sized apples)
- 3/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
Instructions for making the filling:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, mix together the sliced apples, sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt until combined.
3. Roll out the chilled pie crust and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish.
4. Pour the apple mixture into the crust.
5. Cut 2 tablespoons of cold butter into small pieces and scatter them over the top of the filling.
6. Cover the pie with a second pie crust or cut out dough shapes to create a lattice or decorative top.
7. Bake the pie for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Conclusion
A pauper's apple pie recipe is a perfect dessert for those on a budget or with limited time. With only a few simple ingredients, this recipe can create a delicious and satisfying dessert that will impress your family and friends. Whether you make your own crust or use a store-bought one, the result is sure to be a tasty and comforting dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your sweet tooth.
Everyone loves a good slice of apple pie, but not everyone has the means to create a fancy recipe. Pauper's apple pie is a classic dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. However, just because you are on a budget doesn't mean you have to compromise on taste. In this article, we will discuss valuable tips for creating a delicious pauper's apple pie recipe.
Tip #1: Choose the Right Apples
The key to any good apple pie is the apples you use. Aim for apples that are firm and slightly tart, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp or Rome. Avoid using soft or overly sweet apples, as they will not hold up well when baked. Overly sweet apples can also overwhelm the pie with too much sweetness.
Tip #2: Use a Pre-made Crust
One of the easiest ways to save money on a pie crust is by using a pre-made crust. These can be found at your local grocery store and are typically much cheaper than making your own. Look for pie crusts that are made with butter for the best flavor and texture.
Tip #3: Add a Variety of Spices
While cinnamon is the most common spice used in apple pie, adding a variety of spices can enhance the flavor of your pauper's apple pie. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or allspice to your apple mixture. These spices bring a depth of flavor that will take your apple pie to the next level.
Tip #4: Use Cornstarch for Thickening
Cornstarch is a cheaper alternative to tapioca or flour for thickening your apple pie filling. It also produces a smoother texture than flour. Mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with some water before adding it to the apple mixture. This will prevent clumps from forming in the filling.
Tip #5: Use a Mix of Brown and White Sugar
A mix of brown and white sugar will add a richness of flavor to your pauper's apple pie. Brown sugar adds a depth of flavor with its molasses content, while the white sugar helps to add some sweetness. Use about a tablespoon of each for every two cups of sliced apples.
Tip #6: Cut Apples Evenly
Cutting the apples evenly will ensure that they bake evenly. Aim for thin, even slices that are about a quarter of an inch thick. You can do this easily by using an apple slicer or a mandoline. Be sure to remove any seeds or stems.
Tip #7: Brush the Top with an Egg Wash
An egg wash adds a beautiful shine to the top of your pauper's apple pie. Brushing the top crust with an egg wash made from one egg and a tablespoon of water will also help to create a nice, golden-brown color.
Tip #8: Chill the Pie Dough
Chilling the pie dough before rolling it out will make it easier to work with. Pop it in the fridge for at least thirty minutes before rolling it out. This will also help prevent the pie crust from shrinking when baked.
Tip #9: Vent the Top Crust
Venting the top crust will prevent it from becoming too soggy. Cut a few slits in the top crust before baking to allow steam to escape. You can also use cookie cutters to create decorative openings.
Tip #10: Use a Pie Shield
A pie shield will prevent the crust from over-browning. Cover the edges of the pie crust with a strip of aluminum foil or pie shield to protect it during baking. This will ensure that the crust is golden brown and not burnt.
Conclusion
Pauper's apple pie is a simple yet delicious dessert that can be made on a budget. Using the right apples, pre-made crust, a mix of spices, cornstarch, and a mix of brown and white sugar will make a flavorful filling. Cutting apples evenly, brushing the top with an egg wash, chilling the dough, venting the top crust and using a pie shield can ensure an evenly baked and perfectly golden crust. With these tips, you can make a tasty and impressive pauper's apple pie that will wow your guests without breaking the bank!
