Apple Squares (Babcia’s Apple Pie)

🍏🥧 Apple Squares (Babcia’s Apple Pie) 🥧🍏

History:
Apple Squares, also known as Babcia’s Apple Pie, is a beloved dessert that has its roots in Eastern European and Polish cuisine. Babcia, which means “grandmother” in Polish, often passes down treasured family recipes through generations. This delightful dessert is one such recipe that brings warmth and nostalgia to many households.

Components:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick), cold and diced
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4-5 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Powdered sugar (for dusting)

Steps to Prepare:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Prepare the Crust: In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, salt, and baking powder. Add the diced cold butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to work it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Add Eggs and Vanilla: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture over the crust mixture and stir until a soft dough forms.

4. Press the Crust: Press about 2/3 of the dough into the bottom of the greased baking dish. Make sure it forms an even layer.

5. Prepare the Apple Filling: In a bowl, combine the thinly sliced apples with the remaining 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toss until the apples are coated evenly.

6. Layer the Apples: Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust in the baking dish.

7. Crumble Topping: Take the remaining dough and crumble it evenly over the apple layer.

8. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown, and the apples are tender when pierced with a fork.

9. Cool and Serve: Allow the Apple Squares to cool in the dish for about 10-15 minutes. Then, you can dust the top with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. Cut into squares and serve warm or at room temperature.

Time Needed:

• Preparation: 20-30 minutes
• Baking: 45-50 minutes
• Cooling: 10-15 minutes

So, in total, you can enjoy your homemade Apple Squares in about 1 hour and 15-20 minutes. These delicious squares are a wonderful way to celebrate tradition and create lasting memories with your family and loved ones. Enjoy! 🍏🥧😊

Certainly, here is some nutrition information and health considerations for Apple Squares (Babcia’s Apple Pie):

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values per Serving):

• Calories: 200-250 calories
• Total Fat: 7-10 grams
• Saturated Fat: 4-6 grams
• Cholesterol: 40-50 milligrams
• Sodium: 80-100 milligrams
• Total Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
• Dietary Fiber: 2-3 grams
• Sugars: 20-25 grams
• Protein: 2-3 grams
• Vitamin C: 4-6% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Calcium: 2-4% of the DV
• Iron: 4-6% of the DV

Health Considerations:

1. Moderation: Apple Squares can be a delightful treat, but they are relatively high in sugar and fat due to the butter and sugar content. Enjoy them in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

2. Fiber: The apples in this recipe provide a good source of dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion and help you feel full longer.

3. Added Sugars: Be mindful of the added sugar in the recipe. You can reduce sugar content by using less sugar in the filling or opting for a sugar substitute.

4. Portion Control: The serving size matters. Cutting your Apple Squares into smaller portions can help control calorie intake.

5. Nutrient Variation: The actual nutritional content can vary based on the specific ingredients and preparation methods used.

6. Allergies and Dietary Restrictions: Be aware of any allergies or dietary restrictions when making or consuming Apple Squares, particularly if you or someone you’re serving has allergies to ingredients like gluten or dairy.

Remember that while Apple Squares may not be the healthiest dessert option, they can still be enjoyed as an occasional treat when balanced with a nutritious diet and active lifestyle.