Apple Amber

Apple Amber is a cherished Irish dessert that beautifully marries the tartness of stewed apples with the light sweetness of a meringue topping. Encased in a flaky shortcrust pastry, this pie offers a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that have stood the test of time. Ideal for autumn gatherings or as a comforting treat year-round, Apple Amber showcases the simplicity and elegance of traditional Irish baking. Its golden meringue crown and luscious apple filling make it a standout dish that’s both visually appealing and delectably satisfying.

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Pie Crust:

• 2 sheets frozen shortcrust pastry

For the Apple Filling:

• 6 medium cooking apples (e.g., Granny Smith, Jonathan, or Braeburn), peeled, cored, and sliced

• 1 tablespoon caster sugar

• Juice and finely grated rind of 1 lemon

• ½ cup water

• 10 grams unsalted butter

• 3 egg yolks, lightly beaten

For the Meringue Topping:

• 3 egg whites

• Pinch of salt

• ½ cup caster sugar

Directions:

1. Prepare the Pie Crust:

   • Preheat the oven to 190°C (fan-forced).

   • Grease a pie dish (approximately 24cm x 3.5cm) and line it with the shortcrust pastry, joining pieces together where necessary using your fingertips.

   • Trim the edges, then line the pastry with baking paper and fill with pie weights or uncooked rice.

   • Bake for 10 minutes, remove the weights and baking paper, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the crust is lightly golden.

2. Make the Apple Filling:

   • In a saucepan, combine the sliced apples, lemon juice, lemon rind, and water.

   • Bring to a simmer and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften into a pulp. Add more water if necessary to prevent sticking.

   • Remove from heat and stir in the butter and caster sugar until dissolved.

   • Gradually mix in the lightly beaten egg yolks until fully incorporated.

   • Pour the apple mixture into the pre-baked pie crust.

3. Bake the Filling:

   • Return the pie to the oven and bake at 190°C for 25 minutes, or until the filling is set.

4. Prepare the Meringue Topping:

   • While the filling is baking, beat the egg whites and a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form.

   • Gradually add the caster sugar, continuing to beat until the mixture is smooth and glossy.

5. Top with Meringue and Bake:

   • Once the filling is baked, spread the meringue over the hot apple filling, ensuring it completely covers the surface and touches the crust edges to seal.

   • Bake at 190°C for 10 minutes until the meringue is lightly toasted.

   • Reduce the oven temperature to 120°C and bake for an additional 10 minutes to set the meringue.

6. Serve:

   • Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving.

   • Enjoy warm or cold, optionally accompanied by cream, ice cream, or custard.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour

Kcal: 120 kcal per serving | Servings: 12

Apple Amber: A Traditional Irish Dessert Worth Celebrating

Apple Amber is a timeless Irish dessert that effortlessly combines simplicity with elegance. This pie, made with stewed apples and crowned with a delicate meringue topping, has been a staple in Irish kitchens for generations. The blend of tangy apples, sweet meringue, and buttery crust creates a dessert that is both comforting and sophisticated.

But what makes Apple Amber truly special? It’s not just about the taste—it’s about history, tradition, and the joy of home baking. This recipe has been passed down through families, often baked for Sunday dinners, festive gatherings, or simply as a midweek treat. If you love apple-based desserts like apple pie, apple crumble, or tarte Tatin, then Apple Amber is a must-try.

A Slice of History: The Irish Origins of Apple Amber

Ireland has a deep-rooted connection to apples. With its temperate climate, apple orchards have thrived in the country for centuries. Traditional Irish desserts often highlight apples as a key ingredient, from apple tarts to spiced apple cakes. Apple Amber is no exception.

The recipe dates back to the early 20th century, appearing in many classic Irish cookbooks. The name “Amber” likely refers to the golden color of the apple filling when cooked with butter and egg yolks. Unlike classic apple pies, which often use a double crust, Apple Amber features a light, airy meringue topping that adds a unique twist. This dessert was particularly popular during times when people needed to make the most of simple, affordable ingredients.

What Makes Apple Amber the Best?

1. A Unique Twist on Apple Pie

   • While apple pie is beloved worldwide, Apple Amber stands out because of its light meringue topping. The contrast between the soft, tangy apples and the fluffy, slightly crisp meringue creates an irresistible texture.

2. Simple, Readily Available Ingredients

   • This recipe uses pantry staples—apples, eggs, sugar, butter, and pastry. There’s no need for fancy ingredients or hard-to-find spices.

3. Perfectly Balanced Flavors

   • The tartness of the apples is beautifully balanced by the sweetness of the meringue, preventing the dessert from being overly sugary.

4. A Light and Elegant Dessert

   • Unlike heavier apple desserts, Apple Amber has a lightness to it, making it a great choice even after a hearty meal.

5. A Versatile and Customizable Recipe

   • You can experiment with different apple varieties, add a hint of cinnamon, or swap the shortcrust pastry for a gluten-free alternative.

6. A Nostalgic, Homey Feel

   • For those with Irish roots or a love for traditional baking, Apple Amber brings a sense of nostalgia. It’s a dessert that evokes warmth and togetherness.

Health Benefits of Apple Amber

While Apple Amber is undoubtedly a treat, it also offers some surprising health benefits thanks to its star ingredient—apples!

• Rich in Fiber: Apples provide a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion and promotes gut health.

• Packed with Antioxidants: Apples contain polyphenols that help protect the body from oxidative stress.

• Low in Added Sugar: The natural sweetness of apples means you don’t need to overload this dessert with extra sugar.

• Good Source of Protein: The meringue topping, made from egg whites, adds a small protein boost.

Of course, enjoying Apple Amber in moderation as part of a balanced diet makes it all the more enjoyable!

Choosing the Best Apples for Apple Amber

The type of apple you use can make a big difference in the final flavor and texture. Here are some of the best apple varieties for this recipe:

• Granny Smith: Tart, firm, and holds up well during baking.

• Jonathan: A balance of sweet and tart with great texture.

• Braeburn: Naturally sweet with hints of spice, perfect for desserts.

• Honeycrisp: Juicy and slightly sweet, adding a touch of natural sugar.

• Pink Lady: A slightly crisp, sweet-tart option that works beautifully.

If you prefer a more intense apple flavor, mix two different varieties to get the best of both worlds.

Tips for the Perfect Apple Amber

1. Blind Bake the Crust for Crispiness

   • To avoid a soggy bottom, always pre-bake the shortcrust pastry before adding the filling. This ensures a crisp and flaky texture.

2. Cook the Apples Until Soft but Not Mushy

   • Simmer the apples gently to soften them while maintaining some texture. Overcooking can make the filling too watery.

3. Beat the Meringue to Stiff Peaks

   • For a fluffy, stable meringue, ensure your egg whites are at room temperature and beat them until they form stiff, glossy peaks.

4. Seal the Meringue to the Crust

   • Spread the meringue so that it touches the edges of the pastry crust—this prevents it from shrinking while baking.

5. Bake at Two Temperatures

   • Start with a high temperature to create a crisp, golden-brown meringue, then lower the heat to set the topping without overcooking.

Serving Suggestions

Apple Amber is delicious on its own, but it can be elevated with these serving ideas:

• With Fresh Cream: A dollop of lightly whipped cream adds extra richness.

• With Vanilla Ice Cream: The contrast between warm pie and cold ice cream is unbeatable.

• With Custard: A drizzle of warm vanilla custard makes it even more indulgent.

• With a Dusting of Cinnamon: For an added layer of warmth and spice.

A Dessert for Every Occasion

Apple Amber is incredibly versatile—it’s a fantastic choice for:

• Holiday Gatherings: Serve it during Thanksgiving, Christmas, or St. Patrick’s Day for a taste of Irish tradition.

• Afternoon Tea: A refined yet simple dessert to pair with a cup of tea or coffee.

• Family Dinners: An easy way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

• Weekend Baking Projects: A great recipe to make with kids, letting them help with the meringue topping.

Conclusion

Apple Amber is a dessert that truly embodies the beauty of traditional Irish baking. It’s a recipe that’s stood the test of time, loved for its comforting flavors, simple ingredients, and elegant presentation. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or reliving childhood memories, this apple meringue pie is sure to become a favorite in your home. So, why not bake one today? Your kitchen will be filled with the irresistible aroma of stewed apples and golden meringue—a true taste of Ireland, right from your oven!