Traditional Polish Szarlotka with a Buttery Shortcrust Base, Cinnamon Apples and a Crumbly Pastry Top
Szarlotka, a traditional Polish apple pie, features a buttery shortcrust base filled with spiced apples and topped with a crumbly pastry layer. This comforting dessert is perfect for any occasion, especially in the fall.
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
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Written method
Instructions
Read through once, then cook at your own pace with the illustrated guide above.
- 1
In a bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/2 teaspoon baking powder.
- 2
Cut in 1 cup of softened unsalted butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- 3
Add 1 egg to the mixture and blend until a dough forms.
- 4
Press three-quarters of the dough into the bottom of a greased 9-inch pie pan to create the base.
- 5
In another bowl, mix 3 peeled and sliced apples with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 cup of brown sugar until well coated.
- 6
Spread the apple mixture evenly over the crust in the pie pan.
- 7
Crumble the remaining dough over the top of the apples to form a crumbly pastry layer.
- 8
Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes until the top is golden brown and the apples are tender.
- 9
Allow to cool slightly before slicing, and serve warm.
Cook notes
Tips
For a deeper flavor, let the dough chill for 30 minutes before baking.
Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balanced sweetness.
Cook smarter
Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Keep covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate for longer storage, up to 1 week.
Substitutions
- Use margarine instead of unsalted butter for a dairy-free version.
- Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier option.
What to Serve With
- Vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- A cup of coffee
Common Mistakes
- Overworking the pastry dough can result in a tough crust.
- Not peeling the apples thoroughly can lead to a chewy texture.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use other fruits in Szarlotka?
Yes, you can substitute pears or other firm fruits for a different flavor.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Is Szarlotka served warm or cold?
Szarlotka is best served warm, but it can also be enjoyed cold.
Kitchen tools
Helpful Tools for This Recipe
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Rice cooker
Good for steady rice, grains, and meal-prep bowls.
Baking sheet
Useful for roasting, baking, broiling, and sheet-pan prep.
Skillet
Useful for browning, quick sautes, and weeknight one-pan cooking.
Chef knife
A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.
Cutting board
Keeps prep organized for chopping, slicing, and staging ingredients.
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