Winkel 43 Apple Pie is a legendary treat from Amsterdam that has captured the hearts of locals and travelers alike. Known for its rich, buttery crust and perfectly spiced apple filling, this pie offers a delightful balance of sweetness and tartness that keeps us coming back for more. It’s a must-try for anyone who loves classic apple pie with a unique European twist.
Ingredients
To recreate the iconic Winkel 43 Apple Pie, we need to gather ingredients for a rich, buttery crust, a perfectly spiced apple filling, and a classic topping. Each component brings its unique flavor and texture to the table.
For the Pie Crust
We start with the base that holds everything together: the pie crust. It must be flaky and buttery just like the original.
- 2 ½ cups (312g) all-purpose flour, sifted
- 1 cup (227g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 6-8 tablespoons ice-cold water
For the Apple Filling
The heart of the pie is the spiced apple filling. We choose crisp tart apples combined with warm spices for the legendary balance.
- 6 large Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping
The final touch is the topping that completes the Winkel 43 Apple Pie look and taste.
- 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup (67g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| All-purpose flour | 3 ¾ cups (468g) | For crust, filling, topping |
| Unsalted butter | 1 ½ cups (340g) | Cold, cubed |
| Granulated sugar | 1 ⅓ cups (267g) | For crust, filling, topping |
| Kosher salt | 1 teaspoon | For crust |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 ½ teaspoons | Filling and topping |
| Ground nutmeg | ½ teaspoon | Filling |
| Ground cloves | ¼ teaspoon | Filling |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 tablespoon | Filling |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon | Filling |
| Granny Smith apples | 6 large | Peeled and sliced |
This list ensures we capture the essence of the famous Winkel 43 Apple Pie — buttery crust, balanced spice, and a rich apple flavor that lingers with every bite.
Equipment Needed
To perfectly recreate the Winkel 43 Apple Pie in our kitchen, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool plays a crucial role in achieving the pie’s signature flaky crust and perfectly spiced apple filling.
Here is the detailed list of equipment we need:
| Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 9-inch pie dish | Holds and shapes the pie crust and filling |
| Mixing bowls (medium and large) | For combining dry ingredients and preparing the filling |
| Rolling pin | Rolls out the dough to the perfect thickness |
| Pastry blender or forks | Cuts butter into flour for a flaky pie crust |
| Vegetable peeler | Peels the Granny Smith apples cleanly |
| Paring knife | Core and slice apples evenly |
| Measuring cups and spoons | Ensure precise measurement of ingredients |
| Whisk | Mixes wet ingredients and spices |
| Silicone spatula | Scrapes bowl sides and folds filling ingredients |
| Cooling rack | Cools the pie evenly after baking |
| Oven thermometer (optional) | Confirms oven temperature for accurate baking |
Why These Tools Matter
Using a rolling pin lets us control the dough thickness which affects crust flakiness and texture. The pastry blender or forks help us integrate cold butter quickly into the flour, creating tender layers essential for crispy, flaky crusts.
Precise apple preparation with a parring knife ensures even cooking and balanced texture in the filling. Accurate measuring devices support consistent sweetness and spice balance that define the true Winkel 43 Apple Pie experience.
The cooling rack prevents soggy bottoms by allowing air to circulate under the pie as it cools. Each piece of equipment contributes to executing the recipe flawlessly, capturing the charm of this iconic Amsterdam dessert.
Preparation
To craft the iconic Winkel 43 Apple Pie, precise preparation is essential. We will start by assembling the perfect pie crust before moving on to the flavorful apple filling that defines this classic dessert.
Preparing the Pie Crust
- Chill the Butter and Flour
Begin by chilling unsalted butter and all-purpose flour in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Cold ingredients ensure a flaky, tender crust.
- Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Cut in the Butter
Using a pastry blender or two knives, cut the cold butter (1 cup, cubed) into the dry mixture until the texture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized bits remaining.
- Add Ice Water
Gradually drizzle in 4-6 tablespoons of ice water, mixing gently with a fork until the dough begins to come together. Avoid overworking the dough to maintain flakiness.
- Form and Chill the Dough
Gather the dough into two equal discs, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before rolling out.
Tip: Proper chilling during each stage results in a crust that is buttery, tender, and perfectly flaky, just like the signature base of Winkel 43’s famous pie.
Preparing the Apple Filling
- Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and slice 6-7 medium Granny Smith apples into ¼-inch thick slices. The tartness and firm texture of Granny Smith apples hold up beautifully during baking.
- Mix Spices and Flavorings
In a large bowl, combine the apple slices with:
- ¾ cup sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Toss and Macerate
Toss all ingredients until apples are evenly coated with the spices and sugar. Allow the mix to macerate for 15-20 minutes. This step draws out moisture and enhances the flavor penetration.
- Drain Excess Liquid
After maceration, drain any accumulated liquid from the apple mixture. This prevents the pie from becoming soggy, keeping the filling balanced with luscious spice notes and a perfect texture.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Granny Smith apples | 6-7 medium | Tart, firm apple base |
| Sugar | ¾ cup | Sweetens and balances tartness |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 ½ tsp | Warm spice flavor |
| Ground nutmeg | ¼ tsp | Adds subtle depth |
| Ground cloves | ⅛ tsp | Adds aromatic spice |
| Fresh lemon juice | 1 tbsp | Balances sweetness and prevents browning |
| Vanilla extract | 1 tsp | Enhances sweetness and aroma |
By carefully preparing the crust and the apple filling, we lay the foundation for the authentic Winkel 43 Apple Pie experience — crisp, fragrant, and irresistibly delicious.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to bring our Winkel 43 Apple Pie Recipe to life. Precision and care in assembling and baking will ensure that signature flaky crust and perfectly spiced filling.
Assembling the Pie
- Prepare the pie crust: Lightly flour your surface. Roll out one disk of chilled dough into a 12-inch circle about 1/8 inch thick. Carefully transfer it to the 9-inch pie dish, gently pressing it into the bottom and sides. Trim any excess dough, leaving about a 1/2-inch overhang.
- Add the apple filling: Spoon the spiced and well-drained apple mixture evenly into the crust, spreading it to the edges. Take care not to overfill to prevent spillover.
- Top crust placement: Roll out the second dough disk to the same size. Lay it gently over the filling.
- Seal and crimp edges: Fold the overhanging dough from the bottom crust over the top crust edge. Use your fingers or a fork to crimp firmly, creating a secure seal and decorative edge.
- Vent the pie: Using a sharp knife, cut 4 to 5 small slits or decorative shapes in the top crust to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Egg wash and sugar sprinkle: Whisk one egg with a tablespoon of cold water. Brush this egg wash over the pie’s top crust for a golden shine. Sprinkle lightly with coarse sugar for added crunch and sparkle.
- Chill before baking: Place the assembled pie in the refrigerator for 15 to 20 minutes. This step firms the dough and prevents shrinking in the oven.
Baking the Pie
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) for initial baking.
- Bake the pie: Place the pie on the middle rack. Bake for 15 minutes at 400°F to set the crust.
- Reduce temperature: After 15 minutes, lower the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Continue baking for an additional 40 to 45 minutes.
- Check doneness: The pie is ready when the crust is golden brown and the filling bubbles through the vents.
- Cool completely: Transfer the pie onto a wire rack. Let it cool for at least 2 hours to allow the filling to set properly.
- Serving tip: For the authentic Winkel 43 Apple Pie experience, serve warm or at room temperature, ideally with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
| Step | Temperature | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial baking | 400°F (200°C) | 15 minutes | Sets crust |
| Continue baking | 350°F (175°C) | 40-45 minutes | Bake until golden and bubbling filling |
| Cooling | Room Temp | 2 hours | Let filling set for best texture |
Serving Suggestions
To truly savor the Winkel 43 Apple Pie, we recommend pairing it with accompaniments that enhance its rich, buttery crust and perfectly spiced apple filling. Here are our top serving suggestions to elevate your apple pie experience:
Classic Pairings
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of smooth, creamy vanilla ice cream provides a cool contrast to the warm pie. The subtle sweetness and velvety texture balance the tartness of the Granny Smith apples beautifully.
- Whipped Cream: Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy richness that melts in your mouth alongside each bite of spiced apple filling.
- Custard: A warm, poured custard with hints of nutmeg complements the pie’s spices, creating a luxurious mouthfeel.
Beverage Complements
- Coffee or Espresso: Bold coffee or a shot of espresso cuts through the pie’s sweetness and refreshes the palate.
- Black Tea or Chai Latte: A strong black tea or chai latte with its own warming spices pairs perfectly with the cinnamon and cloves in the filling.
- Calvados or Apple Brandy: For an adult twist, a small glass of Calvados enhances the apple flavor and adds a sophisticated touch.
| Serving Option | Flavor Profile | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| Vanilla Ice Cream | Creamy, sweet | Balances tartness and warmth |
| Whipped Cream | Light, airy | Adds richness without heaviness |
| Custard | Creamy, spiced | Enhances pie’s warm spices |
| Coffee/Espresso | Bold, bitter | Cuts sweetness, refreshes palate |
| Black Tea/Chai Latte | Robust, spiced | Complements pie spices |
| Calvados/Apple Brandy | Fruity, warm alcoholic note | Amplifies apple flavor |
Presentation Tips
- Serve your Winkel 43 Apple Pie warm or at room temperature after cooling for the recommended two hours to let the filling set.
- Use a sharp serrated knife to cut clean slices that hold their form.
- Garnish each slice with a light dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant touch that echoes the European tradition.
“The magic is in the pairing. A classic Winkel 43 Apple Pie deserves a perfect partner on the plate and in the glass.”
By following these serving suggestions, we ensure that every bite of our homemade Winkel 43 Apple Pie delivers that iconic Amsterdam delight with a memorable sensory experience.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To maintain the authentic flavor and texture of our Winkel 43 Apple Pie, proper storage and preparation ahead of time are key. Follow these tips to enjoy the pie at its best anytime.
Storing Fresh Apple Pie
- Cool Completely: After baking, allow the pie to cool fully at room temperature for at least 2 hours. This ensures the filling sets properly.
- Cover Loosely: Use foil or plastic wrap to cover the pie loosely. Avoid airtight sealing to preserve crust crispness.
- Refrigerate: Store the pie in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Serve Warm or Room Temperature: Reheat slices in a microwave for 20-30 seconds or warm the whole pie in the oven for 10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to revive its delicious aroma and texture.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage
If we want to enjoy our Winkel 43 Apple Pie later, freezing is a great option.
| Step | Instruction |
|---|---|
| Cool Pie | Let the pie cool completely after baking. |
| Wrap Properly | Wrap the pie tightly in plastic wrap, then foil for freezer. |
| Freeze Duration | Store in the freezer for up to 2 months. |
| Thawing Method | Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. |
| Reheat | Warm in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or until heated through. |
Make-Ahead Assembly Tips
To save time and streamline baking day:
- Prepare the Pie Crust Dough in Advance: Make the dough up to 2 days ahead and keep it wrapped tightly in the fridge.
- Pre-Cook the Apple Filling: We can prepare the spiced apple filling a day ahead and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This helps deepen the flavors.
- Assemble the Pie Day Of: Roll out the chilled dough and assemble the pie just before baking for maximum flakiness.
“Chilling both the dough and filling prior to baking is crucial for achieving the perfect Winkel 43 Apple Pie texture.”
Quick Storage Summary
| Action | Timeframe | Storage Condition |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Pie | Up to 4 days | Refrigerate loosely covered |
| Frozen Pie | Up to 2 months | Wrap well, freeze |
| Dough (pre-baked) | Up to 2 days | Refrigerate tightly wrapped |
| Apple Filling (prepped) | Up to 1 day | Airtight container, fridge |
By implementing these Storage and Make-Ahead Tips, we preserve the signature buttery crust and lively spiced apple filling that make this pie a beloved Dutch classic.
Conclusion
Winkel 43 Apple Pie offers a unique taste of Amsterdam’s rich dessert tradition that we can bring into our own kitchens. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, crafting this pie becomes an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
Taking time to prepare each step carefully ensures we capture the perfect balance of flaky crust and spiced apple filling. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed later, this pie promises a comforting and memorable treat for any occasion.
Let’s embrace the charm of this iconic recipe and share a slice of Dutch sweetness with family and friends.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Winkel 43 Apple Pie special?
Winkel 43 Apple Pie is famous for its rich, buttery crust and well-spiced apple filling that balances sweetness and tartness. Its European twist on classic apple pie makes it a beloved treat in Amsterdam.
What ingredients are needed to make Winkel 43 Apple Pie?
Key ingredients include all-purpose flour, unsalted butter, sugar, salt, Granny Smith apples, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, lemon juice, and vanilla extract for the filling and crust.
What tools do I need to bake this pie?
Essential tools are a 9-inch pie dish, mixing bowls, a rolling pin, and a pastry blender to help create the flaky crust and prepare the filling properly.
How should I prepare the crust for the pie?
Chill butter and flour, mix dry ingredients, cut in butter, add ice water, then chill dough before rolling out to ensure a flaky crust.
How do I prepare the apple filling?
Peel and slice Granny Smith apples, mix with spices, lemon juice, and vanilla, macerate, then drain excess liquid to avoid sogginess.
What is the best baking method for Winkel 43 Apple Pie?
Bake first at a high temperature for crust set, then lower temperature to bake until crust is golden and filling bubbles. Cool pie for at least two hours before serving.
How should I serve Winkel 43 Apple Pie?
Serve warm or room temperature with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or warm custard. Pair with coffee, black tea, or Calvados for enhanced flavor.
Can I store Winkel 43 Apple Pie?
Yes, cool completely and refrigerate covered for up to four days or freeze wrapped for up to two months. Reheat gently before serving.
Is it possible to prepare parts of the pie in advance?
Yes, the pie crust dough and apple filling can be made ahead for convenience and to enhance the final flavor and texture.
What tips improve the pie’s appearance and taste?
Use an egg wash and sprinkle sugar on top before baking for a golden finish, and garnish with powdered sugar when serving for an elegant look.