π₯§ Apple Pie Made With Boiled Cider π
Apple pie made with boiled cider is a delicious and traditional American dessert that combines the rich flavor of boiled cider with sweet and tart apples, all enclosed in a flaky pie crust. It’s a delightful treat that captures the essence of autumn in every bite.
π History:
Boiled cider, also known as apple molasses or cider syrup, has been a staple in American kitchens for centuries. It dates back to colonial times when apples were abundant and preserving their sweet, tangy flavor was essential. Boiled cider is made by simmering apple cider until it thickens and becomes a concentrated syrup. This syrup was not only used as a sweetener but also as a flavor enhancer in various recipes, including apple pie.
π₯§ Components:
- Pie Crust: You’ll need a double pie crust, typically made with flour, butter, salt, and cold water.
- Boiled Cider: This is the star ingredient, made by reducing apple cider until it reaches a thick, syrupy consistency.
- Apples: You’ll need a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness to the filling.
- Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg are commonly used to enhance the flavor of the apples.
- Lemon Juice: A touch of lemon juice adds a zesty brightness to the filling.
- Butter: A pat of butter on top of the filling adds richness.
π©βπ³ Preparation Steps:
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Prepare the Pie Crust:
- In a bowl, combine flour and salt.
- Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Gradually add cold water and mix until the dough comes together.
- Divide the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
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Make the Filling:
- In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced apples, boiled cider, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice.
- Toss until the apples are evenly coated.
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Roll Out the Dough:
- Preheat your oven to 425Β°F (220Β°C).
- Roll out one of the dough discs into a circle and place it in a pie dish.
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Fill the Pie:
- Add the apple filling to the pie crust, spreading it out evenly.
- Dot the top of the filling with small pieces of butter.
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Top the Pie:
- Roll out the second dough disc and place it over the apples.
- Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
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Bake the Pie:
- Make a few slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
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Cool and Enjoy:
- Allow the pie to cool on a wire rack for a few hours before serving.
- Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!
β±οΈ Time Needed:
Preparing an apple pie made with boiled cider typically takes about 30 minutes for prep, plus baking time, which is approximately 45-55 minutes. So, in total, you can expect to spend around 1 hour and 15 minutes from start to finish.
Enjoy your homemade apple pie made with boiled cider! π₯§ππ
Certainly, here are some nutrition facts and health information for a typical slice of apple pie made with boiled cider. Please note that these values can vary based on the specific recipe and portion size:
Nutrition Facts for a Slice of Apple Pie (Approx. 1/8th of a 9-inch pie):
- Calories: Approximately 320-350 kcal
- Total Fat: Around 14-16 grams
- Saturated Fat: About 5-7 grams
- Trans Fat: Typically minimal
- Cholesterol: Approximately 0-15 mg
- Sodium: Around 200-250 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: Approximately 47-50 grams
- Dietary Fiber: About 2-3 grams
- Sugars: Typically higher due to the apples and cider
- Protein: Around 2-3 grams
- Vitamins and Minerals: Apple pie can provide small amounts of vitamins like vitamin A and vitamin C, as well as minerals like calcium and potassium.
Health Information:
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Moderation is Key: While apple pie can be a delicious dessert, it’s important to consume it in moderation due to its calorie and sugar content. One slice can be a delightful treat, but excessive consumption may lead to an excessive intake of added sugars and calories.
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Fiber from Apples: The apples used in the pie filling provide dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion and help you feel fuller for longer. However, the fiber content can vary depending on the type of apples used and whether the pie is made with peeled or unpeeled apples.
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Added Sugars: The sugar content in apple pie primarily comes from granulated sugar and boiled cider. Excessive sugar intake can contribute to health issues like weight gain and increased risk of chronic diseases. Consider using less sugar in your recipe or opting for natural sweeteners if you’re looking to reduce sugar intake.
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Portion Control: To enjoy apple pie without overindulging, pay attention to portion sizes. A smaller slice can satisfy your sweet tooth without causing a significant spike in your calorie and sugar intake.
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Balanced Diet: Apple pie should be part of a balanced diet. Pair it with healthier options, such as a side of fresh fruit or a scoop of low-fat yogurt, to add nutritional value to your dessert.
Remember that the nutritional content of your apple pie may vary depending on the specific ingredients and recipe you use, so it’s a good idea to check labels and adjust ingredients to suit your dietary preferences and requirements.