Grandma’s Fluffy Apple Pie: A Timeless Family Favorite

Get ready to embark on a nostalgic journey back to Grandma’s kitchen with this delightful Fluffy Apple Pie recipe. Packed with the warmth and sweetness of home-baked goodness, this pie is sure to evoke fond memories and create new ones with every bite. With a tender crust, luscious apple filling, and fluffy topping, it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion, from holiday gatherings to cozy family dinners. Let’s dive into the heartwarming world of homemade pies and learn how to recreate this timeless classic!

Ingredients:

For the batter:

• 2 eggs
• 125 g sugar
• 100 g butter
• 100 g flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder

For the filling:

• 750 g apples (Cox Orange or your preferred variety)
• 2 packs custard powder
• 1/2 liter apple juice (plus extra for stewing the apples)

For the custard:

• 3 eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• 5 tablespoons sugar

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar until light and fluffy. Melt the butter and add it to the egg mixture, then sift in the flour and baking powder. Mix until well combined and set aside.
2. Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. In a saucepan, combine the sliced apples with enough apple juice to cover them. Simmer over medium heat until the apples are tender but still hold their shape. Drain any excess liquid and set aside to cool.
3. Make the Custard: In a separate bowl, whisk together the custard powder and remaining apple juice until smooth. Cook according to the package instructions until thickened, then set aside to cool slightly.
4. Assemble the Pie: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Roll out the batter into a thin layer and line a pie dish with it, trimming any excess. Arrange the stewed apples evenly over the crust, then pour the custard over the top.
5. Prepare the Custard Topping: In a small bowl, beat together the eggs, sour cream, and sugar until smooth. Pour the custard mixture over the apples and custard in the pie dish.
6. Bake the Pie: Place the pie dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
7. Cool and Serve: Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon or powdered sugar if desired.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Apple Varieties: While Cox Orange apples are recommended for their sweet-tart flavor and firm texture, feel free to use your favorite apple variety for this pie. Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Braeburn apples also work well.
• Custard Options: If custard powder is not available, you can make a homemade custard using milk, sugar, cornstarch, and vanilla extract. Cook the custard on the stovetop until thickened, then use it as directed in the recipe.
• Crust Alternatives: If you prefer a traditional pie crust instead of a batter-based crust, you can use your favorite pie crust recipe or store-bought pie crusts for convenience.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

To make a keto-friendly version of Grandma’s Fluffy Apple Pie, consider the following adjustments:

• Replace the sugar with a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
• Use almond flour or coconut flour instead of wheat flour for the batter to reduce the carb content.
• Omit the custard topping or use a sugar-free custard made with heavy cream and eggs for a keto-friendly alternative.

Low-Carb Version:

For a low-carb twist on this classic dessert, try the following modifications:

• Replace the apples with low-carb fruits such as berries or rhubarb for a lower sugar content.
• Use a sugar-free custard made with almond milk or coconut milk and a low-carb sweetener.
• Serve the pie with a dollop of whipped cream made with heavy cream and a sugar-free sweetener for added indulgence.

In conclusion, Grandma’s Fluffy Apple Pie is a timeless dessert that brings together the comforting flavors of home and the sweetness of fresh apples. With its tender crust, luscious apple filling, and creamy custard topping, it’s a treat that’s sure to delight the senses and warm the heart. Whether enjoyed on a cozy evening at home or shared with loved ones during special occasions, this pie is a true celebration of family, tradition, and the simple joys of homemade baking. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create cherished memories with this irresistible dessert!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use store-bought pie crust instead of making the batter-based crust from scratch? A: Yes, you can certainly use store-bought pie crust for convenience. Simply line the pie dish with the store-bought crust and proceed with the recipe as directed.

Q: Can I freeze leftovers of this pie? A: Yes, you can freeze leftovers of Grandma’s Fluffy Apple Pie for up to 2-3 months. Wrap the cooled pie tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven or microwave.

Q: Can I use fresh custard instead of custard powder for the filling? A: Absolutely! If you prefer to make a homemade custard from scratch, you can certainly use that instead of custard powder. Simply follow your favorite custard recipe and use it as directed in the recipe.

Q: Can I add cinnamon or nutmeg to the filling for extra flavor? A: Yes, cinnamon or nutmeg would be a wonderful addition to the filling for added warmth and spice. Feel free to sprinkle a pinch of either spice over the stewed apples before pouring the custard over the top.

Q: Can I serve this pie with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream? A: Absolutely! Grandma’s Fluffy Apple Pie pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a decadent finishing touch. Enjoy it warm with your favorite topping for an extra indulgent treat!