Appeltaart or Dutch Apple Pie: a typical Dutch apple tart, between conviviality and rich family tradition

Origin
The Dutch Apple Pie, known in the Netherlands as Appeltaart, is a traditional apple tart originating from the Netherlands. Its history dates back several centuries, with roots deeply embedded in Dutch cuisine.

The term Appeltaart literally means “apple tart” in Dutch. This pastry is distinguished by its often thick, buttery crust and generous filling of sweet and tart apples, sometimes enriched with cinnamon, lemon, raisins, or even dried apples.

History and Evolution
Apple pie is a popular dessert in many European cultures, but the Dutch version is characterized by a denser dough and a preparation style specific to Dutch traditions.

Historically, apples have always been an abundant fruit in the Netherlands, and apple pies were part of traditional homemade desserts. The recipe as we know it today developed from peasant pies, intended to use the available fruit in abundance and to last several days thanks to baking and sugar.

The Dutch Appeltaart is also notable for its dough often woven into a lattice on top, reminiscent of rustic pies from Northern Europe.

Tradition
Dutch Apple Pie is a staple at family celebrations, afternoon teas, and cafés in the Netherlands. It is often served warm, accompanied by fresh cream (slagroom) or vanilla ice cream.

Its popularity extends beyond the Netherlands, notably in the United States, where Dutch Apple Pie has become a well-known variant of traditional American apple pie, with a denser texture and richer flavor.

Traditional Dutch Apple Pie Recipe (Appeltaart)

Ingredients
For the dough:

• 300 g flour

• 200 g cold butter, diced

• 100 g sugar

• 1 egg

• 1 pinch of salt

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 2 tablespoons milk (optional)

For the filling:

• 6 tart apples (Granny Smith or Boskoop)

• 100 g sugar

• 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon

• 50 g raisins (optional)

• Juice of half a lemon

• 50 g sliced almonds (optional)

• 30 g breadcrumbs (to absorb juice)

Preparation

Prepare the dough:

1. Mix flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt in a bowl. Add cold butter and work with your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs.

2. Incorporate the egg and mix quickly to form a homogeneous ball. If the dough is too dry, add a little milk.

3. Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the filling:

1. Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples.

2. Place them in a large bowl with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and raisins. Mix well.

Assemble the tart:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (th.6).

2. Roll out two-thirds of the dough in a greased tart pan, pressing it up the sides.

3. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on the base (this prevents the dough from becoming soggy).

4. Spread the apple filling evenly over the breadcrumbs.

5. Roll out the remaining dough and place it on top, or create a lattice with dough strips over the filling. Sprinkle sliced almonds if desired. Brush the top dough with a little milk or egg yolk to brown.

Bake:
Bake for about 50 minutes until the crust is golden and crisp.

Serve:
Allow to cool slightly before serving. Traditionally, Dutch Apple Pie is served with fresh cream (slagroom) or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.