{"id":12398,"date":"2026-10-07T17:22:37","date_gmt":"2026-10-07T16:22:37","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/goodbalancedfood.com\/?p=12398"},"modified":"2026-10-07T17:22:38","modified_gmt":"2026-10-07T16:22:38","slug":"shortcrust-apple-pie","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/goodbalancedfood.com\/en\/szarlotka-na-kruchym-ciescie\/","title":{"rendered":"Shortcrust Apple Pie | Szarlotka\u00a0"},"content":{"rendered":"

Szarlotka, the classic Polish shortcrust apple pie, is another autumn favorite everyone loves. And no wonder\u2014who could resist a slice of golden, buttery pastry filled with tart apples? It\u2019s one of the simplest bakes around. If you\u2019re not baking it at home yet, this recipe is a must-try. Below, you\u2019ll find a few helpful tips to ensure your pie turns out perfect and keeps everyone coming back for seconds!<\/p>\n\n\n

\"szarlotka<\/figure>\n\n\n

Which apples are best for apple pie?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Tart, firm varieties like Szara Reneta or Anton\u00f3wka work best. They don\u2019t turn into a watery mush right away, and once cooked down, they reach the perfect thick consistency. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to stop the bottom crust from going soggy? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

I recommend pre-baking the base on its own for about 12\u201315 minutes before adding the apples. This prevents the bottom crust from turning out undercooked or soggy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Do you need to cook the apples beforehand?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

That depends on your preference! Cooking down the apples with a pinch of cinnamon and a splash of lemon juice helps evaporate any excess liquid. But if you prefer a bit more texture, you can simply grate raw apples on a coarse grater and spread them straight onto the pre-baked base.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

How to make the top layer of the pie? <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You can crumble the remaining dough with your fingers and spread it evenly over the top. Alternatively, pop it in the freezer for a few minutes, then grate it using a coarse grater directly over the apple layer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Why does apple pie fall apart when sliced?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Make sure to let the pie cool completely before slicing it. This gives the apple layer time to set, so you can easily cut neat, clean slices. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

\"szarlotka<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Love apples? Be sure to check out my other recipes featuring this seasonal fruit\u2014you\u2019ll find even more tried-and-true ideas for delicious homemade treats!<\/p>\n\n\n\n