Apricot Pie with Walnut Crumble: A Detailed Recipe for a Fruity and Crunchy Treat

Apricot Pie with Walnut Crumble: A Detailed Recipe for a Fruity and Crunchy Treat

Introduction

Apricot pie with walnut crumble is a delightful combination of sweet, tangy apricots and a buttery, nutty topping. This dessert is perfect for showcasing the natural flavors of fresh apricots, enhanced by the rich crunch of walnuts. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this pie is a crowd-pleaser that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a pie that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 1/4 cups (160 g) all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, chilled and diced
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2-4 tablespoons cold water

For the Apricot Filling:

• 6-8 fresh apricots, pitted and sliced
• 1/3 cup (70 g) granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Walnut Crumble Topping:

• 1/2 cup (50 g) walnuts, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup (50 g) brown sugar
• 1/4 cup (30 g) all-purpose flour
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Ingredient Breakdown and Benefits

1. Apricots: Provide a naturally sweet and tangy flavor, rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
2. Walnuts: Add a crunchy texture and nutty richness, while being a source of healthy fats.
3. Butter: Creates a flaky crust and adds richness to the crumble topping.
4. Cornstarch: Ensures the filling thickens perfectly for a cohesive pie.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pie Crust

1. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, and salt.
2. Cut in Butter:
   • Add the chilled butter and rub it into the flour using your fingertips or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Add Water:
   • Gradually add cold water, one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together.
4. Chill the Dough:
   • Shape the dough into a disc, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Apricot Filling

1. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, toss the sliced apricots with sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Set aside.

3. Make the Walnut Crumble

1. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a small bowl, combine the chopped walnuts, brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon (if using).
2. Add Butter:
   • Stir in the melted butter until the mixture forms a crumbly texture.

4. Assemble the Pie

1. Roll Out the Dough:
   • On a lightly floured surface, roll out the chilled dough to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the dough to the dish and trim the edges.
2. Add Filling:
   • Spread the prepared apricot filling evenly over the crust.
3. Top with Crumble:
   • Sprinkle the walnut crumble topping evenly over the apricot filling.

5. Bake the Pie

1. Preheat Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Bake:
   • Place the pie on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the filling is bubbling.
3. Cool:
   • Allow the pie to cool for at least 30 minutes before serving to let the filling set.

Tips for Perfect Apricot Pie with Walnut Crumble

1. Use Fresh Apricots:
   • Choose ripe but firm apricots for the best flavor and texture.
2. Prevent a Soggy Crust:
   • Brush the crust with a thin layer of egg white before adding the filling to create a barrier.
3. Customize the Topping:
   • Add oats or other nuts to the crumble for extra texture and flavor.
4. Serve Warm:
   • Pair the warm pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Variations of the Recipe

1. Peach and Apricot Pie:
   • Combine peaches and apricots for a sweet and tangy filling.
2. Gluten-Free Version:
   • Use a gluten-free flour blend for the crust and crumble.
3. Honey-Sweetened Pie:
   • Replace granulated sugar with honey for a natural sweetener.
4. Coconut Crumble:
   • Add shredded coconut to the topping for a tropical twist.

Serving Suggestions

1. As a Dessert:
   • Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream for a comforting treat.
2. For Brunch:
   • Pair with coffee or tea for a delightful addition to a brunch spread.
3. As a Gift:
   • Wrap the pie in a decorative box for a thoughtful homemade gift.
4. With Fresh Fruits:
   • Serve alongside a fruit salad for a balanced dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned apricots?
   • Yes, but drain them thoroughly to avoid excess moisture in the filling.
2. How do I store leftovers?
   • Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
3. Can I freeze the pie?
   • Yes, wrap the baked pie tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. What if I don’t have walnuts?
   • Substitute with pecans, almonds, or even hazelnuts.
5. How do I prevent the crust from burning?
   • Cover the edges with foil if they brown too quickly during baking.

Conclusion

Apricot pie with walnut crumble is a delightful dessert that brings together the natural sweetness of apricots and the crunch of a nutty topping. Perfect for summer gatherings or cozy family dinners, this pie is both comforting and impressive. Its golden crust, vibrant filling, and irresistible crumble make it a showstopper on any table. Try this recipe today and enjoy a slice of homemade bliss!