Swedish Apple Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Filling:
- 6 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon flour (optional, to absorb extra moisture)
- For the Crust:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup melted butter (unsalted)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- For Topping (optional):
- Powdered sugar for dusting
- Vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Apples
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
- Add the 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice to the apples. Toss until the apples are evenly coated. If your apples are particularly juicy, sprinkle the flour over them to help absorb excess moisture.
- Arrange the apples in a single layer in a greased 9-inch pie dish. Spread them out evenly so the crust can cover them properly.
Step 2: Make the Crust
- In a medium bowl, combine the sugar, flour, melted butter, egg, vanilla extract, salt, and baking powder. Mix well until you get a smooth, thick batter.
- Pour the batter over the apples in the pie dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly, ensuring that it covers all the apples. It will be a bit thick, so take your time to spread it out.
Step 3: Bake the Pie
- Place the pie dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crisp.
- To check if the pie is done, insert a toothpick into the crust. If it comes out clean, the pie is ready. The apples should be tender but not mushy, and the crust should have a firm, golden appearance.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for about 15 minutes. This helps the juices settle and makes it easier to slice.
- Optionally, dust the top of the pie with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and presentation.
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a classic touch.
Tips for a Perfect Swedish Apple Pie
- Apple Choice: The type of apple you use can greatly influence the taste and texture of the pie. Granny Smith apples provide a tart contrast to the sweet crust, while Honeycrisp or Fuji apples add a hint of sweetness. Mixing different types of apples can create a more complex flavor.
- Crust Variation: Swedish apple pie is unique because it has more of a batter-like crust rather than a traditional pie crust. If you prefer a crunchier top, sprinkle a little granulated sugar on the batter before baking.
- Spices: Adjust the spices to your taste. Adding a pinch of ground cloves or allspice can bring extra warmth and depth to the pie.
- Avoiding a Soggy Pie: If your apples are very juicy, adding the tablespoon of flour to the filling will help thicken the juices as the pie bakes. This prevents the crust from becoming too soggy.
- Serving Suggestions: While this pie is delicious on its own, serving it with ice cream or whipped cream adds a luxurious element. For an extra-special treat, drizzle some caramel sauce over the top.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap or foil. It will keep for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Swedish Apple Pie Origins
Swedish Apple Pie, known as “Svensk Äppelpaj,” is a beloved dessert in Sweden. Unlike the classic American apple pie with a double crust, this version is often crustless or has a simple batter poured over the apples. This approach creates a pie that is almost a hybrid between a cobbler and a cake, emphasizing simplicity and the natural flavors of the apples. Its rustic charm makes it a perfect treat for both casual family dinners and festive occasions.
Enjoy this delightful Swedish Apple Pie with its warm, cinnamon-spiced apples and buttery crust. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection!
