Szarlotka na Dużą Blachę (Polish Apple Pie Recipe)

Szarlotka is a beloved Polish dessert that has been a staple in homes for generations. Known for its comforting taste and a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors, this apple pie is a crowd-pleaser. It’s made with a buttery crust, a flavorful spiced apple filling, and can be served warm or cold. Ideal for a family gathering, holiday celebration, or just a cozy afternoon treat, Szarlotka is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Ingredients: For the crust:

3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into cubes
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 egg
2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
For the apple filling:

6-7 medium apples (preferably tart like Granny Smith)
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp all-purpose flour (to thicken the filling)
1/4 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Directions:

Prepare the crust: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and baking powder. Add the cold butter cubes and rub the butter into the flour using your fingertips or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the egg and salt, then mix to form a dough. If the dough is too dry, add a tablespoon of cold water at a time until it holds together. Divide the dough into two portions – one larger for the bottom crust and a smaller one for the top.

Prepare the filling: Peel, core, and slice the apples. In a large bowl, toss the apple slices with sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, lemon juice, and flour. The flour helps thicken the juices from the apples as they bake.

Assemble the pie: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line a large baking sheet or rectangular pan with parchment paper. Roll out the larger portion of dough on a floured surface and press it into the base of the pan. Spread the prepared apple filling evenly over the dough. Roll out the smaller portion of dough and cut it into strips, or roll it out as one sheet and place it over the apples as a lattice pattern.

Bake the pie: Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling. You may need to cover the edges of the crust with foil during the last 10 minutes to prevent over-browning.

Cool and serve: Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing. The filling will set as it cools, making it easier to serve.

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serve Szarlotka warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
It can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days or refrigerated for up to a week. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds to restore the warmth and freshness.
Variations:

Crumble topping: Instead of a top crust or lattice, you can sprinkle a mixture of butter, sugar, and oats over the apples to create a crumbly topping.
Nutty filling: Add a handful of chopped walnuts or almonds to the apple filling for added texture and flavor.
Caramelized apples: Sauté the apple slices in a bit of butter and sugar before adding them to the crust for a deeper, caramelized flavor.
Spices: Try adding a pinch of ginger or allspice for a unique twist on the classic cinnamon flavor.