Apple Slices

Apple Slices: A Taste of Nostalgia

The aroma of warm apple slices, the delicate crunch of the pastry, the sweet and tangy filling... it's a sensory experience that takes me right back to my childhood. This recipe, a cherished memory from grade school lunchtimes, is more than just a dessert; it's a portal to simpler times, a comforting hug in a flaky, golden crust. I remember the anticipation, the hushed excitement as the trays arrived, and the satisfyingly messy experience of devouring these delicious squares. The flavors were simple, yet perfect, and this recipe perfectly captures that essence.

Growing up, this wasn't just a treat; it was a shared experience. Sharing these apple slices with friends, giggling and whispering secrets as we savored each bite, was a significant part of the grade school experience. The memory of these simple pleasures, the shared joy, and the undeniably delicious taste of this dessert is what inspired me to recreate this nostalgic treat. For me, it's not just about recreating a dish; it's about rediscovering the warmth, simplicity, and joy of childhood memories.

More than just apples: This isn't just any apple dessert; it's a culmination of perfect textures and flavors. The crispness of the apples, the sweet and slightly tart filling complemented by the hint of cinnamon, and the rich, buttery crust all work together harmoniously. It's the balance of these elements that elevates this dessert beyond the ordinary. This balance requires precision, a careful attention to detail that brings the dish to its peak of perfection.

Making it your own: The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, yet it's incredibly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different types of apples, adding a dash of nutmeg or cardamom to the filling, or even incorporating a hint of lemon zest into the pastry. The possibilities are endless. Let your creativity flow and customize it to your taste preferences. Each adjustment would allow you to add a new personal touch, making the recipe your own, a variation on a classic theme.

Beyond the recipe: This recipe is more than just a set of instructions; it's a journey back to childhood, a reminder of simpler times, and a celebration of shared experiences. It's about the comfort of familiar tastes and the joy of recreating special memories. It's a dessert that transcends generations, connecting us to our past and enriching our present.

Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. The result is a delicious and comforting dessert that will bring a smile to everyone's face. The golden brown crust, the perfectly cooked apples, and the irresistible aroma will make it a favorite in your household, just as it was in mine many years ago.

So, gather your ingredients, embrace the nostalgia, and get ready to bake a batch of memories. Let the sweet aroma transport you back to those grade school days and share the delight of these simple, yet unforgettable, apple slices with loved ones. The experience of baking, and of sharing, will be as heartwarming as the final product itself.

Enjoy!

Step-by-step

• For the Pastry: (1st 7 ingredients)
• Mix flour, baking powder and salt in a food processor.
• Add cold, cubed shortening and process until it becomes coarse crumbs.
• Mix water, egg yolks and lemon juice.
• Add to food processor and mix until it comes together. It will be wet/moist.
• Wrap in wax paper and chill at least 6 hours or overnight.
• For the Filling: (Last 6 ingredients.)
• Mix sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon and salt in a saucepan.
• Add water and cook, stirring frequently, for 5 minutes.
• Add apples and simmer for 10 minutes.
• Construction:
• Divide pastry in half.
• Roll one piece out to a 15 x 11 inch rectangle (Use a well floured work surface and rolling pin.)
• Using rolling pin, turnout the rectangle onto a 9x13x2 in. sheet pan.
• With fingertips push dough up the sides of the pan about 1 Inch.
• Put apple mixture evenly over pastry rectangle.
• Roll out remaining dough to cover the apple mixture.
• Seal edges and cut small steam vents in the top pastry.
• Bake at 450 for 20 minutes.
• Reduce heat to 350 and bake another 30 minutes.
• Let cool on a wire rack (in the sheet pan.)
• Cut into squares.
• It is traditional to drizzle a thin mixture of confectioners sugar, water and vanilla over the finished pastry.