Classic Szarlotka Polish Apple Pie

Szarlotka is a classic Polish apple pie, known for its buttery, slightly crumbly pastry and sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple filling. It’s a beloved dessert in Poland and is often served at family gatherings or with a cup of tea. Here’s how to make a delicious Szarlotka:

Classic Szarlotka (Polish Apple Pie) Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Crust:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small pieces

• 1/2 cup powdered sugar

• 2 large egg yolks

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder

• Pinch of salt

For the Apple Filling:

• 5-6 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Golden Delicious), peeled, cored, and sliced

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust based on the sweetness of your apples)

• 1 tablespoon cinnamon

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, to help thicken the filling)

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour

• 1/4 cup granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes

Instructions:

1. Prepare the dough:

   • In a large bowl, mix together the flour, powdered sugar, baking powder, and salt.

   • Add the cold butter and rub it into the flour mixture using your fingers or a pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs.

   • Add the egg yolks, vanilla extract, and mix until the dough comes together. If it feels too dry, add a little cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until it binds.

   • Divide the dough into two portions, one slightly larger than the other. Wrap both portions in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the apple filling:

   • While the dough is chilling, prepare the apple filling. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and vanilla extract (if using). If you prefer a thicker filling, sprinkle in a tablespoon of flour and mix well.

   • Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Roll out the dough:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

   • Remove the larger portion of dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface to fit the bottom and sides of a 9-inch pie or tart pan.

   • Gently transfer the dough to the pan, pressing it into the edges and trimming any excess.

4. Assemble the pie:

   • Pour the prepared apple filling into the crust, spreading it evenly.

5. Make the crumble topping:

   • In a small bowl, mix together the flour and sugar for the topping. Add the cold butter and rub it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

   • Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the apple filling.

6. Bake the pie:

   • Bake the Szarlotka in the preheated oven for about 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown, the filling is bubbling, and the topping is lightly browned.

7. Cool and serve:

   • Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing.

   • Serve warm or at room temperature, optionally dusted with powdered sugar or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Enjoy your Classic Szarlotka!

This Szarlotka (Polish Apple Pie) is a warm, comforting dessert that pairs beautifully with the sweet, spiced apples and buttery pastry. It’s perfect for any occasion and brings a little taste of Poland into your kitchen!