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The Apple, Cranberry, Currant Pie with Lemon-Nutmeg Crust is a delightful dessert that combines the sweet and tart flavors of apples, cranberries, and currants with the zesty and aromatic touch of lemon and nutmeg, all encased in a flaky pastry crust. This pie is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, holiday celebration, or simply a sweet treat to enjoy with a cup of tea.
History:
The exact origin of this particular pie recipe is not well-documented, but pies themselves have a long history dating back to ancient civilizations. Pies were a popular way to preserve and enjoy fruits before modern refrigeration. The combination of apples, cranberries, and currants likely evolved as a way to use seasonal fruits and create a flavorful and colorful filling.
Components:
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Filling:
- 3 cups of peeled, cored, and sliced apples (typically Granny Smith or another tart variety)
- 1 cup of fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup of dried currants
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- Zest of one lemon
- Juice of half a lemon
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Lemon-Nutmeg Crust:
- 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar
- 1 cup (2 sticks) of cold unsalted butter, cubed
- Zest of one lemon
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 6-8 tablespoons of ice-cold water
Steps to Prepare:
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Prepare the Crust:
- In a food processor, combine the flour, salt, sugar, lemon zest, and nutmeg. Pulse to mix.
- Add the cold butter cubes and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Divide the dough in half, shape into two disks, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
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Prepare the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, cranberries, currants, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss to coat the fruit evenly.
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Assemble the Pie:
- Roll out one of the chilled dough disks on a floured surface to fit your pie dish. Place it in the dish.
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Add the Filling:
- Pour the fruit filling into the pie crust.
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Top with Crust:
- Roll out the second dough disk and place it on top of the filling. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
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Bake:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Optionally, you can brush the top crust with milk and sprinkle with sugar for a golden finish.
- Bake for about 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown, and the filling is bubbly.
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Cool and Serve:
- Allow the pie to cool for a while before serving. It’s delicious on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Preparation Time:
The total time needed to prepare this pie, including both preparation and baking, is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Now you have all the ingredients, steps, and history of the Apple, Cranberry, Currant Pie with Lemon-Nutmeg Crust. Enjoy making and savoring this delightful dessert! 🥧🍋🫐🍏🥧
Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for a serving of Apple, Cranberry, Currant Pie with Lemon-Nutmeg Crust:
Nutrition Facts (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 350-400 calories
- Total Fat: 15-20 grams
- Saturated Fat: 9-12 grams
- Cholesterol: 30-40 milligrams
- Sodium: 200-250 milligrams
- Total Carbohydrates: 50-60 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 3-5 grams
- Sugars: 25-30 grams
- Protein: 2-4 grams
Health Information:
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Moderate Calories: This dessert is moderately calorie-dense, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
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Saturated Fat: The crust’s butter content contributes to the saturated fat content, so it’s advisable to limit intake if you’re watching your saturated fat intake.
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Fiber: The fruit filling contains fiber, which can help with digestion and provide a feeling of fullness.
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Vitamins and Minerals: Apples and cranberries are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, such as vitamin C and various phytochemicals. These can have potential health benefits.
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Added Sugar: Be mindful of the added sugar content, as excessive sugar intake can contribute to health issues. You can reduce the sugar content if desired.
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Portion Control: Enjoying a smaller portion of this pie can help manage calorie and sugar intake.
Overall, while this pie can be a delicious treat, it’s important to consume it in moderation, especially if you are conscious of calorie, sugar, or saturated fat intake. Pairing it with a balanced diet and an active lifestyle can help you enjoy it guilt-free. 🥧🍏🫐🍋
