Classic Canadian Apple Jack

Name: Classic Canadian Apple Jack
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Yield: 8 slices
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 5 medium apples (peeled, cored and sliced); 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (spooned and levelled); 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (cold and cubed); 3-4 tbsp cold water

75 min 8 slices Medium

All Recipes

A sweet and spicy apple treat perfect for fall evenings.

Prep

20 min

Cook

45 min

Total

75 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Apple Jack is a traditional Canadian dessert that combines the crispness of apples with warm spices, creating a comforting and delicious treat that's perfect for chilly evenings. This version of Apple Jack is designed to highlight the natural sweetness and tartness of fresh apples, while being easy enough for any home cook to tackle. It's particularly great for showcasing the bounty of fall harvests in Canada. Whether you're a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe offers a delightful way to enjoy the flavours of the season.

Instructions

Prepare the apples

In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, 1/2 cup sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Toss until apples are evenly coated.

Pro tip: Use a mix of apple varieties for more complex flavours.

Make the pastry dough

In another bowl, mix flour, 1/4 cup sugar, and salt. Cut in butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until dough comes together.

Pro tip: Do not overwork the dough to keep it flaky.

Roll out the dough

On a floured surface, roll the dough into a large circle, about 30 cm (12 inches) in diameter. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Pro tip: Use parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Assemble the apple jack

Arrange the apple mixture in the centre of the dough, leaving a 5 cm (2 inches) border. Fold the edges of the dough over the apples, pleating as necessary.

Pro tip: Ensure the edges are well sealed to prevent leakage.

Preheat and bake

Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Bake for 45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.

Pro tip: Cover with foil if the crust browns too quickly.

Rest before serving

Remove from oven and let cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing.

Pro tip: Resting allows the juices to settle, resulting in cleaner slices.

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Tips & Tricks

Choose a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavour balance.
Use a high-quality cinnamon for a deeper spice profile.
Let the apple jack rest before serving for enhanced flavour melding.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is apple jack?

Apple Jack is a traditional dessert made with apples and spices, often enclosed in a pastry shell or crust.

How many calories are in apple jack?

A single serving of this apple jack recipe contains approximately 290 calories.

What kind of apples should I use for apple jack?

Use a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, for a balanced flavour.

Can apple jack be made ahead?

Yes, apple jack can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to three days.

How do I store leftover apple jack?

Store leftover apple jack in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Can I freeze apple jack?

You can freeze apple jack before baking. Wrap tightly and store for up to two months. Bake from frozen, adjusting time as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Apple Jack warm, topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance its comforting qualities. This dessert can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently in the oven before serving to recapture its freshly baked appeal.