The Normandy apple pie is a refined version of the classic, featuring the region's iconic products: calvados and cider. This recipe creates a pie with exceptional depth of flavor.
Ingredients
For the Shortcrust Pastry
- 250g flour
- 125g cold butter, cubed
- 1 egg
- 50g sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tbsp ice water
For the Filling
- 6 apples (Reinette or Granny Smith)
- 80g sugar
- 50g butter
- 3 tbsp calvados
- 100ml dry cider
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2 egg yolks
- 100ml heavy cream
Equipment
- A 28 cm tart ring or pie dish
- A saucepan
- A pastry brush
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Pastry (15 min + 1h rest)
- Work the flour, cold butter, sugar, and salt until you get a sandy texture
- Add the egg and ice water
- Form a ball, wrap in plastic, and refrigerate for 1 hour
Step 2: Prepare the Apples (15 min)
- Peel, core, and cut the apples into wedges
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat
- Add apples and sugar, cook for 8 minutes
- Deglaze with calvados and flambé (or let alcohol evaporate)
- Add cider and simmer until almost dry
- Season with cinnamon, let cool
Step 3: Assemble (10 min)
- Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F)
- Roll out pastry and line the tart ring
- Spread the cooled apples evenly
- Mix egg yolks with cream, pour over the apples
Step 4: Bake (35–40 min)
Bake for 35–40 minutes until the filling is set and the crust is golden.
The Secret: Calvados
Calvados is an apple brandy from Normandy. It adds an intense apple aroma that no other ingredient can replicate. Use a VSOP for best results.
Without Calvados?
Replace with 2 tbsp apple brandy or 1 tbsp apple extract. The flavor will be different but still delicious.
Pairing Suggestions
- Calvados: serve a small glass alongside
- Cidre brut: the classic Normandy pairing
- Vanilla ice cream: for a warm-cold contrast
Normandy vs Classic
| Aspect | Classic | Normandy |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor | Sweet, simple | Complex, aromatic |
| Cooking | Raw apples | Caramelized with calvados |
| Filling | Just apples | Apples + cream custard |
| Difficulty | Easy | Medium |
Want to discover the classic French apple pie recipe? Or try our storage tips!
