Quick Apricot Pie in Just 40 Minutes

Ingredients

120 grams (0.5 pound) butter, softened
150 grams (0.5 pound) sugar
1 tablespoon sour cream
2 eggs
Pinch of salt
150 grams (1 cup) flour
1 teaspoon baking powder

Equipment

Mixing Bowl
You'll need a spacious bowl to combine all your ingredients without any spills. Make sure it's sturdy and can handle vigorous mixing.
Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer
A good mixer will save you time and energy. If you don't have one, a wooden spoon or whisk can do the job, just be prepared for a bit of a workout!
Sifter
This helps to evenly sift in the flour, which will make your batter smooth and lump-free.
20 cm (8-inch) Baking Form
Non-stick or well-greased and floured, this will ensure your pastry doesn't stick and comes out perfectly shaped.

Instructions

Step 1

Preparation

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).

In a mixing bowl, combine the softened butter with sugar until well mixed.

Add the eggs and a pinch of salt to the mixture, stirring well.

Mix in the sour cream and baking powder.

Gradually sift in the flour and mix until a smooth batter forms.

Step 2

Baking

Grease a 20 cm (8-inch) baking form with butter and dust with flour to create a non-stick surface.

Pour the batter into the prepared form and smooth it out evenly.

Place apricot halves on top of the batter.

Bake for about 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Servings

Imagine a cozy afternoon with a warm slice of apricot pastry. 🍑 If you're looking to wow your guests, serve this delightful treat with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. **The creamy notes complement the tangy apricots beautifully!** For a more earthy and rustic vibe, pair your pastry with a steaming cup of herbal tea or a creamy latte. ☕️ Setting up a small tea party with this pastry as the star is sure to win hearts and spark conversations. If you're into presentations, dust a little powdered sugar over the top and garnish with mint leaves for a *picture-perfect* dessert. The possibilities are endless, and your culinary creativity knows no bounds. 🌟

Variations

Elevating this recipe to suit dietary preferences is simpler than you think! 🌱 **Gluten-Free Variation:**

Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Ensure all your other ingredients are gluten-free certified.

**Vegan Variation:**

Swap the butter with a plant-based butter.
Use flax eggs as a substitute for traditional eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 3 tablespoons water = 1 egg).
Replace the sour cream with a coconut cream or any plant-based sour cream.

These adjustments make the pastry inclusive while maintaining its deliciousness! ✨

Faq

Q: Why didn’t my pastry rise properly?
A: Make sure your baking powder is fresh and fully incorporated in the batter. Also, evenly sifting the flour will help achieve better texture.
Q: Can I use frozen or canned apricots?
A: Absolutely! Just make sure to drain canned apricots well or thaw and pat dry frozen ones to prevent excess moisture in your batter.
Q: How can I make the pastry lighter and fluffier?
A: Ensure to beat your butter and sugar thoroughly until it's light and fluffy. Adding eggs one at a time and beating well also helps create a lighter texture.
Q: Can I add other fruits instead of apricots?
A: Yes, you can experiment with various fruits such as peaches, plums, or even berries. Just be mindful of the moisture content and adjust accordingly.
Q: How can I make the pastry more visually appealing?
A: You can try slicing the apricots and arranging them in a decorative pattern. Dusting the final product with powdered sugar or a glaze can also enhance its look.
Q: Is it possible to add spices for extra flavor?
A: Absolutely, spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a hint of vanilla can elevate the flavor profile of your pastry. Start with a small amount and adjust based on your preference.