Baka’s Bliss: Croatian Apple Pie Squares Recipe

Looking for a dessert that’s comforting, flavorful, and reminiscent of cozy afternoons spent in a sun-drenched kitchen? Look no further than Croatian Apple Pie Squares, also known as *pita od jabuka* or *kolač od jabuka*. This isn’t your typical American apple pie; it’s a rustic, layered treat with a subtly spiced apple filling nestled between two delicate, buttery crusts. It’s a taste of Croatian heritage, a slice of simple pleasures, and a recipe that’s been passed down through generations. This recipe is an adaptation of my own grandmother’s recipe, modified to be easily replicated in any modern kitchen. The result is a perfect blend of traditional flavors and accessible techniques.

## Why You’ll Love This Recipe

* **Incredibly Flavorful:** The combination of sweet apples, warm spices, and a buttery crust is simply irresistible.
* **Easy to Make:** While it looks impressive, this recipe is surprisingly straightforward. The steps are clear and simple, even for beginner bakers.
* **Perfect for Sharing:** These squares are ideal for potlucks, family gatherings, or simply enjoying with a cup of coffee.
* **Adaptable:** You can easily customize the recipe to your liking by adding nuts, dried fruit, or different spices.
* **Authentic Taste:** This recipe captures the essence of Croatian baking, offering a unique and delicious dessert experience.

## Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these delectable Croatian Apple Pie Squares:

**For the Crust:**

* 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
* 1 cup (2 sticks) cold unsalted butter, cut into cubes
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar
* 1 teaspoon baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1 large egg
* 1/2 cup sour cream (or full-fat yogurt)
* 2 tablespoons cold milk (or water)

**For the Apple Filling:**

* 6-8 medium apples (such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
* 1/2 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste depending on the sweetness of the apples)
* 1 tablespoon lemon juice
* 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
* 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
* 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
* 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs (optional, to absorb excess moisture)
* 2 tablespoons butter, cut into small pieces (optional, for added richness)

**For the Egg Wash (Optional):**

* 1 large egg, beaten
* 1 tablespoon milk or water

**Equipment:**

* 9×13 inch baking pan
* Mixing bowls
* Pastry blender or food processor (optional)
* Rolling pin
* Paring knife

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create your own batch of Baka’s Croatian Apple Pie Squares:

**Part 1: Making the Crust**

1. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. This ensures the baking powder is evenly distributed throughout the flour, resulting in a more tender crust.
2. **Cut in the Butter:** Add the cold, cubed butter to the dry ingredients. Use a pastry blender or your fingertips to cut the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Alternatively, you can use a food processor: pulse the dry ingredients and butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Be careful not to over-process.
3. **Add Wet Ingredients:** In a separate small bowl, whisk together the egg, sour cream (or yogurt), and cold milk (or water). Pour this mixture into the flour mixture and stir until just combined. Do not overmix. The dough should be slightly shaggy but hold together when pressed.
4. **Divide and Chill the Dough:** Divide the dough in half. Flatten each half into a disc, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. This chilling period is crucial as it allows the gluten to relax, making the dough easier to roll out and preventing it from shrinking during baking. It also helps the butter to solidify, resulting in a flakier crust.

**Part 2: Preparing the Apple Filling**

1. **Prepare the Apples:** Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Uniform slicing ensures even cooking.
2. **Combine Filling Ingredients:** In a large bowl, combine the sliced apples, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves (if using). Toss well to coat the apples evenly with the spices and sugar. The lemon juice helps prevent the apples from browning and adds a touch of brightness to the filling.

**Part 3: Assembling the Apple Pie Squares**

1. **Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This will prevent the pie squares from sticking to the pan.
2. **Roll Out the First Layer of Dough:** On a lightly floured surface, roll out one of the chilled dough discs into a rectangle slightly larger than the size of your baking pan. Carefully transfer the dough to the prepared baking pan, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides. Trim any excess dough. If the dough tears, simply patch it with extra dough.
3. **Sprinkle with Breadcrumbs (Optional):** If you’re concerned about excess moisture in the filling, sprinkle the bottom crust with breadcrumbs. This will help absorb any juices released by the apples during baking.
4. **Add the Apple Filling:** Pour the apple filling evenly over the bottom crust. Distribute the apples so that they cover the entire surface. If using, dot the top of the apple filling with small pieces of butter for added richness.
5. **Roll Out the Second Layer of Dough:** On a lightly floured surface, roll out the second chilled dough disc into a rectangle slightly larger than the size of your baking pan. Carefully transfer the dough over the apple filling. Trim any excess dough and crimp the edges to seal the top and bottom crusts together. Alternatively, you can simply lay the top crust over the filling and trim the edges to fit.
6. **Egg Wash (Optional):** In a small bowl, whisk together the egg and milk (or water). Brush the top crust with the egg wash. This will give the crust a beautiful golden-brown color and a slight sheen. If you prefer, you can skip the egg wash and simply sprinkle the top crust with granulated sugar before baking.
7. **Cut Slits in the Crust:** Use a sharp knife to cut several slits in the top crust. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing the crust from puffing up unevenly.

**Part 4: Baking the Apple Pie Squares**

1. **Bake:** Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apple filling is bubbly. If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the pie with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.
2. **Cool:** Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan before cutting it into squares. This allows the filling to set properly, making it easier to cut and serve.

## Tips for Success

* **Use Cold Butter:** Cold butter is crucial for creating a flaky crust. Make sure the butter is very cold before cutting it into the flour.
* **Don’t Overmix the Dough:** Overmixing the dough will develop the gluten, resulting in a tough crust. Mix the dough until just combined.
* **Chill the Dough:** Chilling the dough allows the gluten to relax and the butter to solidify, resulting in a tender and flaky crust.
* **Adjust Sugar to Taste:** The amount of sugar in the filling can be adjusted to your liking, depending on the sweetness of the apples.
* **Use a Variety of Apples:** Using a combination of different types of apples can add complexity and depth of flavor to the filling.
* **Let Cool Completely:** It’s important to let the pie cool completely before cutting it into squares, as this allows the filling to set properly.

## Variations

* **Add Nuts:** Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the filling or sprinkle them on top of the crust before baking.
* **Add Dried Fruit:** Add raisins, cranberries, or chopped dried apricots to the filling.
* **Use Different Spices:** Experiment with different spices, such as cardamom, ginger, or allspice.
* **Add a Crumble Topping:** Instead of a top crust, top the apple filling with a crumble topping made from flour, butter, sugar, and oats.
* **Glaze the Top:** After baking and cooling, drizzle the top of the squares with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
* **Lemon Zest:** Add the zest of one lemon to the apple filling for a brighter citrus flavor.

## Serving Suggestions

Croatian Apple Pie Squares are delicious served warm or at room temperature. They can be enjoyed on their own or with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce. They also pair well with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.

## Storage Instructions

Store leftover apple pie squares in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.

## Nutritional Information (approximate, per square)

* Calories: 300-350
* Fat: 15-20g
* Saturated Fat: 9-12g
* Cholesterol: 50-60mg
* Sodium: 150-200mg
* Carbohydrates: 40-50g
* Sugar: 20-25g
* Protein: 3-4g

This is a rough estimate and can vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

**Q: Can I use pre-made pie crust?**
A: While homemade crust is recommended for the best flavor and texture, you can use pre-made pie crust in a pinch. Be sure to use a good-quality brand and follow the package instructions.

**Q: Can I use a different type of apple?**
A: Yes! Feel free to experiment with different types of apples. Some good options include Fuji, Braeburn, and Cortland.

**Q: My crust is browning too quickly. What should I do?**
A: If the crust starts to brown too quickly, cover the pie with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.

**Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?**
A: Yes! You can prepare the dough and apple filling ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Assemble the pie just before baking. You can also bake the pie ahead of time and reheat it before serving.

**Q: My filling is too watery. What should I do?**
A: If your filling is too watery, you can try adding more breadcrumbs to absorb the excess moisture. You can also increase the baking time slightly.

**Q: Can I freeze the apple pie squares?**
A: Yes! You can freeze the apple pie squares for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

This Croatian Apple Pie Squares recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a connection to family, tradition, and the simple joys of home baking. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious treat!