This Apple Pie is packed with juicy apple filling and has a crumbly, buttery shortbread crust that melts in your mouth. The combination of sweet apples, a hint of tartness, and a crisp golden crust makes this the ultimate fall dessert. Perfect for tea time, holiday gatherings, or a cozy family treat!

Preparation Time

• • Prep Time: 20 minutes

• • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Cooling Time: 2 hours
  • Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes

• Servings: 8 slices

Ingredients
For the Dough:

• • Flour: 300 g (2 ½ cups)

• • Sugar: 100 g (½ cup)
  • Baking powder: 1 tsp
  • Salt: A pinch

• Butter: 150 g (⅔ cup), softened
• Eggs: 2

For the Apple Filling:

• • Apples: 5–6 medium-sized (Golden Delicious or your favorite variety)
  • Water: 50 ml (¼ cup)
  • Butter: 50 g (¼ cup)

• Semolina (Manna): 2 tbsp
• Sugar: 3 tbsp (adjust to taste)

For Topping:

• Powdered sugar: for dusting

Directions

• Prepare the Dough
  • • In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  • • Add softened butter and rub it into the dry ingredients with your hands until it forms fine crumbs.
    • Beat 2 eggs in a small bowl, then add to the flour mixture.
    • Knead gently until a crumbly, sandy dough forms. Do not overmix.
  • Divide into two equal portions and chill while preparing the filling.
• Prepare the Apple Filling
  • • Peel, core, and dice the apples.
  • • In a large saucepan, add apples, water, and butter.
    • Cook over medium heat for 15–20 minutes until the apples soften.
    • Stir in semolina and sugar, mixing well.
  • Allow the mixture to cool completely before assembling.
• Assemble the Pie
  • • Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
  • • Line a 25 cm (10-inch) baking dish with parchment paper.
    • Spread half of the crumbly dough evenly on the bottom and press it down to form a firm base with raised edges.
    • Add the apple filling, spreading it evenly.
  • Sprinkle the remaining crumbly dough over the apples, leaving small gaps to allow steam to escape.
• Bake the Pie
  • • Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown.
  • Let the pie cool for at least 2 hours before slicing.
• Final Touches & Serving
  • • Dust with powdered sugar before serving.
  • Slice and enjoy with tea, coffee, or vanilla ice cream.

Serving Suggestions

• • With whipped cream for an extra indulgence.
  • Warm with vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert.
  • Drizzled with caramel sauce for a richer flavor.

• Paired with hot tea or coffee for a perfect afternoon treat.

Cooking Tips

• • For a crunchier topping, add crushed nuts to the crumbly dough.

• • Use tart apples like Granny Smith for more contrast in flavors.
  • Let the pie cool completely before cutting to help the filling set.
  • Make ahead: The pie keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Nutritional Benefits

• • Apples provide fiber and vitamin C.
  • Butter and eggs add richness and texture.

• Semolina absorbs moisture, giving a firmer filling.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• • Perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.

• • Crumbly, buttery shortbread crust melts in your mouth.
  • Easy to make and requires basic ingredients.
  • A family favorite that tastes even better the next day!

Frequently Asked Questions

• • Can I use another type of fruit? Yes! Pears, peaches, or berries work well.
  • What if I don’t have semolina? Use cornstarch or flour instead.

• Can I freeze this pie? Yes! Wrap slices individually and freeze for up to 2 months.
• Do I need to pre-bake the crust? No, this bakes perfectly without pre-baking.
• Can I make this gluten-free? Yes! Use a gluten-free flour blend.