Transform Your Holiday Desserts with Le Gruyère AOP: A Unique Apple Pie Recipe
For many, Christmas is a cherished season for upholding traditions and enjoying delightful meals with family and friends. This year, delight your guests by presenting an extraordinary apple pie that not only pleases the palate but also adds a surprising twist: the sumptuous Le Gruyère AOP cheese. Renowned food creator Pipsa Hurmerinta shares her insights on how to master this stunning dessert.
Pipsa suggests preparing the apple pie a day ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld and the filling to stabilize. "The apple pie is much easier to make than it looks," Pipsa notes, emphasizing that the apples achieve the perfect texture when given the time to set. Furthermore, letting the pie rest before slicing makes it far easier to serve.
This apple pie marries the sweetness of juicy apples with the rich, nutty flavor of Le Gruyère AOP, creating a dessert that is sure to become a holiday favorite. Pipsa expertly keeps the secret ingredient under wraps until the first slice is served, sparking curiosity and conversation among guests. "No one has guessed right so far, but this recipe might change that!" she laughs, revealing her enthusiasm for this innovative dish.
But can cheese really elevate a dessert pie? Without doubt! "YES, Le Gruyère AOP goes with everything," she enthusiastically declares.
Here’s how to make Pipsa's delicious Le Gruyère AOP Apple Pie:
Pie Crust (Serves 6-8)
- 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
- 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 the pie pan
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Pie Crust: In a bowl, combine the dry ingredients. Cut in the butter until the mixture is crumbly. Gradually incorporate the water and mix until a smooth dough forms, being careful not to over-knead.
- Shape the dough into two disks, wrap them in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least an hour.
- Prepare the Filling: Peel, core, and slice the apples. In a bowl, toss the apples with sugar, spices, and cornstarch.
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Grease a 25 cm pie pan with butter.
- Roll out both disks of dough on a floured surface to fit the pie pan. Place one disk in the pan, add the apple filling, and cover it with the second disk. Pinch the edges to seal.
- Cut small slits in the crust to allow steam to escape, then brush with egg wash and sprinkle with a little sugar.
- Bake the pie for approximately 45 minutes or until golden brown.
- Allow to cool before serving, preferably with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Did You Know?
Le Gruyère AOP is a Swiss cheese dating back to the 1100s, celebrated for its rich and nutty flavor. Made from unpasteurized cow’s milk and aged for a minimum of five months, this cheese develops its distinctive character without the holes found in many Swiss varieties. Its meltability makes it a fantastic choice for cheese platters, fondue, gratins, and, as you now know, even desserts!
Explore more innovative recipes featuring Le Gruyère AOP to add a twist to your culinary repertoire this festive season!
Related Sources: