Hungarian Apple Squares (Almás Pite): A Classic Hungarian Dessert

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
Add the cold butter cubes and rub them into the flour with your fingertips until the mixture resembles fine breadcrumbs.
Add the egg, sour cream (or yogurt), and vanilla extract. Mix until the dough starts to come together.
Knead gently until a smooth dough forms. Divide the dough into two equal portions, wrap in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

2. Prepare the Apple Filling

Peel and grate the apples into a bowl.
Add sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice, mixing well.
Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes, then squeeze out any excess juice to prevent the pastry from getting soggy.
Stir in the semolina or breadcrumbs to help absorb moisture.

3. Assemble the Hungarian Apple Squares

Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch (23×33 cm) baking tray with parchment paper.
Roll out one portion of the dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle to fit the baking tray. Carefully transfer it to the tray.
Spread the apple filling evenly over the dough.
Roll out the second portion of dough and place it over the apple filling, gently pressing the edges together to seal.
Prick the top crust with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.

4. Bake and Serve

Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown.
Allow the pastry to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Dust with powdered sugar and serve!

Tips for the Best Hungarian Apple Squares

✔ Use tart apples like Granny Smith or Jonagold for the best flavor balance.
✔ Chill the dough before rolling—it makes it easier to handle.
✔ Don’t skip the semolina or breadcrumbs—they prevent a soggy crust.
✔ Let the pastry rest before cutting—it firms up and holds its shape better.

Variations of Hungarian Apple Squares

🍎 Add Walnuts or Raisins: Some Hungarian families add chopped walnuts or golden raisins to the apple filling for extra texture.
🍏 Try a Lattice Top: Instead of a full top crust, create a lattice pattern with strips of dough.
🍏 Glaze with Apricot Jam: Brushing the top crust with warm apricot jam gives it a lovely shine.
🍏 Make it Gluten-Free: Swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend.

How to Store and Serve Hungarian Apple Squares

🥧 Storage:

Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

🥧 Serving Suggestions:

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Pair with whipped cream or custard.
Enjoy with a cup of coffee, tea, or mulled wine.

Final Thoughts

Hungarian Apple Squares (Almás Pite) are a true comfort dessert—simple, delicious, and deeply nostalgic. Whether you make them for a family gathering, a cozy afternoon treat, or a holiday spread, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Have you tried Hungarian Apple Squares before? Let me know in the comments! 😊👇