My Mama Apple Pie aka Szarlotka

There’s something magical about the aroma of apple pie baking in the oven. It has a way of turning a house into a home, bringing comfort and joy with every slice. For me, no apple pie captures that magic quite like my mama’s Szarlotka—a Polish apple pie that is as much a part of my childhood as bedtime stories and cozy family dinners.

Szarlotka isn’t just a recipe; it’s a story told in layers of buttery crust and spiced apple filling. It’s the sweet taste of autumn afternoons spent in the kitchen with mama, her hands expertly working the dough while she hummed her favorite tunes. It’s the centerpiece of countless family gatherings, where one bite brought smiles and a second helping was never far behind.

This recipe is more than just a dessert—it’s a piece of my heart. Every time I make it, I’m transported back to those cherished moments. And now, I’m thrilled to share this family treasure with you. Whether you’re new to Szarlotka or it’s already a favorite in your home, I hope it brings you as much joy and warmth as it’s brought me over the years.

Let’s dive into the recipe and create some sweet memories of our own. 💛

Ingridients

Filling

5 Granny Smith apples peeled cored and grated
5 Tablespoons of white sugar
1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon

Crust and Crumble

2 1/2 cups flour
1 cup cold butter ( 2 sticks)
1 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder
1/2 cup of sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1 egg

Toppings (optional)

powdered sugar
vanilla ice cream
whipped cream

How to prepare apple filling

In a large pan combine grated apples , sugar and cinnamon . Cook on a low heat with lid on for 20 min untill apples are soft .. take off the heat and cool off

Make the crust

In a large bowl whisk flour, baking powder and sugar . Add cold butter pieces and use fork or your fingers to work butter into a flour. It should looks like crumbs

MIx and Cool

Stir in vanilla and egg into mixture. Combine everything until a dough forms.

Divide dough into 2 parts . Cool dough for 15 min