Apple Pie with Decorative Crust

Instructions: Prepare the dough: In a large bowl, mix flour, sugar, and salt. Add cold butter and rub it into the flour with your fingers until crumbly. Add the egg, vanilla (optional), and lemon zest. Add cold water gradually and mix until the dough forms. Divide the dough in two: one part for the base, one for the top. Wrap both parts in cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Make the filling: In a bowl, mix the apple slices with sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and flour or cornstarch. Add raisins or nuts if desired. Assemble the pie: Roll out the larger dough portion and place it into a tart or pie dish. Pour in the apple filling. Roll out the second dough piece and cut it into decorative strips using a fluted pastry cutter. Arrange the strips in a sunburst or wheel pattern (as shown in your photo). Use small flower or heart shapes or roll dough into roses for decoration. Brush with egg yolk for a golden finish. Bake: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Bake for 40–45 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Finish: Let cool slightly, then dust with powdered sugar.