Betty Liu's Recipe

Betty Liu's Apple Pie: A Sweet and Savory Delight

As a busy professional woman, juggling a demanding career and a desire for home-cooked meals often feels like a tightrope walk. Finding time for elaborate recipes is a luxury I rarely have. That's why I appreciate simple, yet incredibly flavorful recipes that don't require hours in the kitchen. This apple pie, inspired by a recipe from Betty Liu, became one of my go-to desserts. It's not your grandmother's apple pie – it has a surprising savory twist that elevates it from ordinary to extraordinary.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. The crust, while requiring cold butter and a bit of technique, is straightforward. The filling, however, is where the magic happens. The combination of tart Granny Smith apples and sweet Macintosh apples provides a delightful balance, while the addition of sharp cheddar cheese introduces a surprising savory note. The cheese, when baked, melts into a creamy, slightly salty counterpoint to the sweetness of the apples and honey-cinnamon glaze. It's a harmonious blend of sweet and savory that's both comforting and sophisticated.

The honey-cinnamon glaze adds another layer of deliciousness. Infusing the honey with cinnamon overnight intensifies the flavour, creating a rich and aromatic topping that complements the apple and cheese filling perfectly. I love the warm, inviting aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes. It's a small detail, but it elevates the whole baking experience. The demerara sugar sprinkled on top adds a lovely crunch and a touch of visual appeal.

This recipe is perfect for weekend baking, or even a weeknight treat if you plan ahead. The crust can be made in advance, and the filling comes together quickly. It's a recipe that easily adapts to your schedule and preferences. Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties, cheeses, or spices – let your creativity shine! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this apple pie is a surefire way to impress your friends and family. It’s a testament to the power of simple ingredients and a dash of culinary innovation.

Beyond the Recipe: This apple pie isn't just a dessert; it's a symbol of creating something beautiful and delicious amidst the chaos of daily life. It represents the joy of taking time for oneself, even if it's just a few hours spent in the kitchen, creating something that brings happiness and satisfaction. For me, baking this pie isn't simply about the end product; it's about the process – the gentle kneading of the dough, the fragrant aroma of cinnamon and apples filling my home, and the simple pleasure of creating something special. It's a personal moment of calm and creativity amidst the whirlwind of my busy life.

The ingredients are readily available, making it accessible for anyone who wants to try it. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a reminder that even small moments of self-care, like baking a delicious pie, can make a significant difference in our wellbeing. So go ahead, roll up your sleeves, and make a pie. You deserve it.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
• Pair it with a cup of strong coffee or tea for an afternoon treat.
• It’s also wonderful served at room temperature for a less decadent option.

This Betty Liu-inspired apple pie is more than just a dessert; it's a story of balancing ambition and personal fulfillment, one delicious slice at a time. Enjoy!

Step-by-step

• Place honey and cinnamon stick in a pot and heat.
• Pour into a bottle with cinnamon stick and let sit overnight.
• Prepare pie crust: Combine 2 1/2 cups flour, 2 sticks cold cubed butter (1 cm pieces), 1 teaspoon salt, 3 teaspoons sugar, and 3/4 cup cold water.
• Mix until combined.
• Prepare filling: Combine 3 to 4 peeled, cored, and sliced apples (mix of Macintosh and Granny Smith recommended), juice from 1/2 lemon and 1 teaspoon lemon zest, 1 cup grated extra-sharp white cheddar cheese.
• Assemble the pie: Roll out the pie crust and place the filling inside.
• Top with an additional crust or lattice.
• Brush with egg wash (1 egg + splash of water).
• Sprinkle with demerara sugar and additional slices of extra-sharp white cheddar.
• Bake according to your preferred pie recipe instructions.