Recipe for Cinnamon Bun Apple Pie: A Delightful Fusion of Flavors
Introduction
Cinnamon bun apple pie is a delightful fusion of two classic American desserts: the cinnamon bun and the apple pie. This recipe combines the rich, sweet flavors of cinnamon and sugar with the tartness of apples, creating a mouthwatering treat that is perfect for any occasion. In this article, we will explore the history and origins of this unique dessert, discuss the key ingredients and techniques involved in making it, and provide a detailed recipe for those who wish to try their hand at creating this delicious treat.
The History and Origins of Cinnamon Bun Apple Pie
The cinnamon bun apple pie is a relatively new dessert, having gained popularity in the past few decades. While the individual components of this dessert have been enjoyed for centuries, the fusion of the two into a single dish is a modern creation. The cinnamon bun, a soft, sweet roll filled with cinnamon and sugar, has its roots in medieval Europe, while the apple pie is an American classic that dates back to the colonial era.
The combination of these two desserts is believed to have originated in the United States, where chefs and bakers have always been known for their creativity and willingness to experiment with flavors. The cinnamon bun apple pie has since become a beloved dessert across the country, with many variations and adaptations being created by bakers and home cooks alike.
Key Ingredients and Techniques
To create a delicious cinnamon bun apple pie, there are several key ingredients and techniques that must be mastered. Here, we will discuss these in detail, providing a foundation for those who wish to attempt this recipe at home.
Key Ingredients
1. Flour: The base ingredient for both the pie crust and the cinnamon bun dough.
2. Butter: Used to create a rich, flaky crust and to add flavor to the cinnamon bun dough.
3. Sugar: Essential for sweetness in both the pie filling and the cinnamon bun dough.
4. Apples: The star of the pie, providing the tartness and texture that balances the sweetness of the cinnamon bun.
5. Cinnamon: The aromatic spice that brings the cinnamon bun flavor to the pie.
6. Eggs: Used to bind the pie filling and to create a golden crust.
7. Vanilla: Adds a subtle flavor to the pie filling and cinnamon bun dough.
8. Lemon juice: Adds a zesty note to the pie filling, enhancing the apple flavor.
Techniques
1. Pie Crust: To create a flaky, buttery crust, it is important to chill the dough before rolling it out. Additionally, using a food processor or pastry cutter to combine the flour and butter can help achieve the desired texture.
2. Cinnamon Bun Dough: The dough should be kneaded until smooth and elastic, then allowed to rise before being shaped into buns.
3. Pie Filling: The apples should be peeled, cored, and sliced before being cooked with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice to create a flavorful filling.
4. Baking: The pie should be baked at a moderate temperature to ensure even cooking and a golden crust.
Detailed Recipe for Cinnamon Bun Apple Pie
Ingredients
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup ice water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
– 4 cups peeled, cored, and sliced apples
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
Instructions
1. Pie Crust: In a food processor, combine the flour, butter, sugar, and salt. Pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add the ice water, 1 tablespoon at a time, until the dough comes together. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead until smooth. Divide the dough in half, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
2. Cinnamon Bun Dough: In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Add the flour and mix until a dough forms. On a floured surface, knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Divide the dough in half, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
3. Pie Filling: In a large saucepan, combine the apples, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, vanilla extract, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the apples are tender and the mixture is thickened, about 15-20 minutes.
4. Assemble the Pie: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out one half of the pie crust on a floured surface to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Transfer the crust to the dish and trim the edges. Roll out the remaining pie crust and cut into strips for the lattice topping.
5. Fill the Pie: Spread the apple filling evenly over the bottom crust. Roll out the cinnamon bun dough and cut into strips. Arrange the cinnamon bun strips over the apple filling, creating a lattice pattern.
6. Bake the Pie: Cover the edges of the pie with aluminum foil to prevent overbrowning. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
7. Cool and Serve: Allow the pie to cool for at least 2 hours before serving. Enjoy this delicious cinnamon bun apple pie with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Conclusion
The cinnamon bun apple pie is a delightful fusion of two classic American desserts that offers a unique and flavorful experience. By mastering the key ingredients and techniques, anyone can create this mouthwatering treat at home. Whether enjoyed as a dessert or a breakfast treat, the cinnamon bun apple pie is sure to delight the taste buds of all who try it.
