Apple pie and custard

Method

1. Preheat the oven to 190C/gas 5.

2. Roll out two thirds of the pastry on a floured work surface and use to line a 23cm pie dish.

3. Tip the apple slices into a bowl with a pinch of thyme and the sugars, then stir gently to mix. Pile the mixture into the pastry-lined dish, dot with a little butter and leave to cool.

4. Once the filling has cooled, roll out the remaining pastry and lay it on top. Seal the edges well, then make a small hole in the top for steam to escape. Make decorations from any pastry trimmings and seal them with a little water. Brush with beaten egg, sprinkle with caster sugar and bake for 20-30 minutes until golden brown.

5. For the custard: split open the vanilla pod and scrape out the seeds into a heavy-based saucepan. Pour in the milk and cream, add the vanilla pod and thyme, then bring slowly to the boil.

6. Whisk the egg yolks and sugar in a bowl until they lighten in colour and thicken slightly.

7. Pass the custard through a sieve, discarding the vanilla pod and thyme. Rinse the saucepan and return the mixture to the pan. Put the saucepan over a low heat and cook the custard for 5-10 minutes, stirring all the time, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of the spoon - do not boil or the custard will curdle.

8. Serve with the hot apple pie.