| Prep: 25 mins | Cook: 50 mins | Difficulty: Intermediate | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 350 | 15g | 8g | 55g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 30g | 5g | 3g | 0.3g |
When I first stumbled upon the idea of a Rose Apple Pie, I immediately knew I had to try it. The concept of slicing apples so thin and rolling them to resemble delicate roses was simply too charming to resist. Not to mention, it combines two of my favorite baking elements: visually stunning presentations and traditional fruit pies. I’ve always found joy in creating dishes that are as beautiful as they are delicious, and this pie certainly fits the bill.
Perfect Marriage of Flavors
One of the reasons I adore this Rose Apple Pie is because it brings together the tartness of Granny Smith apples and the sweetness of Honeycrisp apples, offering a delightful balance that pleases the palate. The mix of granulated sugar and light brown sugar adds depth and enhances the natural flavors of the apples. Additionally, the hint of cinnamon and nutmeg provides a warm, comforting essence that is quintessentially Southern.
A Southern Twist with Health Benefits
Apples are a fantastic source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and various antioxidants. This pie allows you to enjoy the health benefits of apples in a dessert form. The lemon juice adds a bit of acidity, preventing the apples from browning and ensuring they retain their vibrant color and nutrients. The use of unsalted butter means you can control the amount of sodium in the recipe, making it a slightly healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
For added appeal, a light egg wash gives the crust a beautiful golden hue, and a sprinkle of coarse sugar adds a touch of sparkle and extra crunch. Of course, if you’re feeling indulgent, you could pair a slice of this pie with a dollop of homemade whipped cream or a scoop of classic vanilla ice cream. This complements the pie perfectly and adds an extra layer of decadence.
Pairing Suggestions
This pie is quite versatile and can be served alongside other Southern classics. Consider offering it with a side of fried chicken for a delightful contrast of savory and sweet. Or, if you’re planning a coastal feast, it pairs wonderfully with a light seafood dish such as shrimp and grits. The rose apple pie is both a feast for the eyes and an exceptional dessert that will impress guests and family alike.
Overall, this recipe is a fabulous blend of my love for traditional Southern cuisine and my artistic side. The next time you’re looking to charm your guests or add a new twist to your dessert repertoire, give this Rose Apple Pie a try—you won’t be disappointed!
What You’ll Need
- 1 9-inch pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
- 5 large apples (preferably a mix like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (optional, for sprinkling on top)
Method
Step One: Prepare the Pie Crust
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the 9-inch pie crust in a pie dish, crimping the edges if desired. Set aside.
Step Two: Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. It’s best to use a mandoline slicer for uniform thin slices, which will help in shaping the apple roses.
Step Three: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Add the lemon juice and mix well. Toss the sliced apples in the mixture until they are evenly coated.
Step Four: Create Apple Roses
Arrange the apple slices in a circular pattern, starting from the outer edge and working your way towards the center, forming a rose shape. Overlap each slice slightly, so the apples can stand upright and maintain their shape during baking.
Step Five: Assemble the Pie
Transfer the apple rose arrangement into the pie crust. Scatter the small pieces of unsalted butter over the top of the apples.
Step Six: Apply Egg Wash
Brush the beaten egg over the edges of the pie crust. This will give the crust a golden hue once baked. If desired, sprinkle coarse sugar over the crust for added texture and sweetness.
Step Seven: Bake the Pie
Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown. If the edges of the crust begin to brown too quickly, cover them with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
Step Eight: Cool and Serve
Remove the pie from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy your Rose Apple Pie!
