Have you ever wondered what desserts tasted like over a century ago? This recipe, unearthed from a treasured 1894 cookbook, promises a glimpse into the past with its unique “Mannheimer Apple Pie.” While the title claims it was once “the best in the world,” the real intrigue lies in its simplicity and the promise of forgotten flavors.
This pie features two distinct layers: a rich, buttery base and a creamy sour cream custard topping, both generously filled with sweet and tart apples. Even more surprising? It only requires 8 eggs, a stark contrast to many modern recipes loaded with dairy and fat. So, are you ready to embark on a baking adventure through time? Gather your ingredients and let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 100 grams of butter
- 200 grams of powdered sugar
- 5 eggs
- Lemon peel
- 250 g flour
- 4 apples
- 250 g 30% sour cream
- 3 eggs
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Crust
- In a mixing bowl, cream together 100g of butter and 200g of powdered sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add in 5 eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
- Grate some lemon peel into the mixture to infuse it with a zesty freshness.
- Slowly fold in 250g of flour until a smooth dough forms. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Preparing the Filling
- Peel and core 4 apples, then slice them thinly. Set aside.
- In another bowl, whisk together 250g of sour cream, 3 eggs, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until well combined.
Step 3: Assembling the Pie
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
- Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to fit your pie dish. Gently press it into the bottom and sides.
- Arrange the sliced apples evenly over the crust.
- Pour the sour cream mixture over the apples, ensuring it seeps into all the crevices.
Step 4: Baking and Serving
- Place the pie in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is set.
- Once baked, allow the pie to cool slightly before slicing.
- Serve warm, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, and savor the delicious flavors of history reborn.
Final Thought
In an age where recipes come and go, the Mannheimer apple pie stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of classic baking. With its buttery crust, luscious apple filling, and hint of cinnamon-spiced nostalgia, this pie is sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. So why not take a step back in time and indulge in a slice of history? As they say, “Bon appétit!”
