Delightful Surprises: Apple Pie with a Twist of Le Gruyère AOP

Christmas is often about traditions, loved ones, and, of course, delicious food. This year, elevate your holiday gatherings with an unexpected twist on a classic dessert: apple pie infused with the rich and nutty flavor of Le Gruyère AOP cheese. Food creator Pipsa Hurmerinta shares her unique recipe that not only surprises palates but also creates memorable moments around the holiday table.

According to Pipsa, the key to an incredible apple pie is preparation. By making the pie a day ahead of serving, the flavors meld beautifully, and the crust becomes much easier to slice – a technique that caramelizes the apples and allows them to settle perfectly. "The apple pie is much easier to make than it looks," she insists, emphasizing the need for patience.

With her secret ingredient being luscious Le Gruyère AOP, Pipsa keeps dinner guests guessing about the source of the delicious flavor. "No one has managed to guess it correctly so far, but this recipe might change that," she laughs. The rich Swiss cheese complements the sweet and juicy apples delightfully, proving that cheese can indeed work wonders in desserts.

The Le Gruyère AOP Apple Pie Recipe

Let this luxurious apple pie become a cherished part of your family traditions. With Pipsa's tips and the secret twist, you're guaranteed to make a dessert that's a conversation starter:

Pie Crust Ingredients:

  • 3 dl all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 1/2 dl grated Le Gruyère AOP
  • 80 g cold butter
  • 3 tbsp cold water

Filling Ingredients:

  • 1.8 kg apples
  • 2 dl granulated sugar
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground cardamom
  • 1/4 tsp ground cloves
  • 2 tbsp cornstarch
  • 1 lightly beaten egg for brushing
  • 20 g butter for greasing the pie dish
  • 1 tbsp granulated sugar for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Pie Crust: In a bowl, mix the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold butter in small pieces and rub it into the flour until crumbly. Gradually add cold water until a smooth ball forms; avoid over-kneading.
  2. Chill the Dough: Shape the dough into two discs, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for at least one hour.
  3. Prepare the Filling: Peel, core, and slice the apples. Combine them with sugar, spices, and cornstarch in a bowl.
  4. Preheat the Oven: Set it to 190°C (375°F). Grease a 25 cm pie dish with butter.
  5. Assemble the Pie: Roll out the dough on a floured surface to fit the pie dish. Press one disc into the dish, pour in the apple filling, and cover with the second disc, pinching the edges to seal.
  6. Vent the Crust: Cut small slits in the top crust for steam to escape, brush with egg, and sprinkle with sugar.
  7. Bake: Place the pie in the oven and bake for about 45 minutes until golden brown.
  8. Serve: Allow the pie to cool before serving, ideally paired with vanilla ice cream.

A Cheese with History

Did you know that Le Gruyère AOP has a storied history dating back to the 1100s? This Swiss cheese, crafted from unpasteurized cow's milk and aged for a minimum of five months, is known for its rich buttery flavor, making it ideal not only in savory dishes such as fondue and casseroles but also as a unique addition in desserts.

With this imaginative recipe, you can bring a delightful surprise to your holiday table. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the tradition of cooking with loved ones, and enjoy a delectable piece of apple pie infused with the luxurious taste of Le Gruyère AOP.

Related Sources:

• Source 1 • Source 2