Embrace the essence of autumn with this delightful Apple Caramel Tart. Featuring a buttery crust seasoned with cinnamon, a rich and gooey caramel layer, and thinly sliced apples arranged beautifully on top, this tart is a perfect blend of textures and tastes that celebrate the season.
Why You'll Love This Recipe: This tart offers a wonderful combination of sweet caramel and tart apples, encased in a spiced crust that adds depth and warmth. The creamy caramel complements the crisp apple slices, making every bite a delightful experience.
Perfect Occasion: Ideal for autumn gatherings, holiday feasts, or as a comforting treat to enjoy on a chilly day. It's also a great showpiece for dinner parties or as a special weekend dessert.
Decoration Tips: For an extra touch of elegance, arrange the apple slices in a rose pattern before baking. After baking, brush the top with a little apricot jam for a glossy finish, or drizzle with more caramel for added decadence.
Ingredients for the Sandy Crust:
- 1/2 cup (70g) of 82% butter, chilled and cubed
- 1 cup (140g) of all-purpose flour
- A pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons (30g) of cold water
Ingredients for the Caramel:
- 2/3 cup (140g) of sugar
- 3 tablespoons (45g) of water
- 3/4 cup (200ml) of heavy cream (33% fat)
- 1/4 cup (60g) of unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons (10g) of vanilla sugar
Filling:
- 3 medium apples, thinly sliced
Instructions:
- Prepare the Caramel:
- In a saucepan, dissolve the sugar with water over medium heat. Continue to boil until it turns amber. In the microwave, heat the cream and butter together until hot but not boiling.
- Remove the sugar syrup from heat and gradually add the hot cream and butter mixture, stirring well after each addition. Set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Crust:
- Sift flour, salt, and cinnamon into a bowl. Add the cubed butter and rub into the flour to form crumbs. Mix in the egg yolk and water to form a dough.
- Roll out the dough and lay it in a greased 21 cm tart pan, forming a neat base and edges. Prick the base with a fork.
- Assemble the Tart:
- Pour most of the caramel over the crust, reserving about 10 grams for later use.
- Arrange the apple slices over the caramel. Optionally, sprinkle with vanilla sugar.
- Bake:
- Bake in a preheated oven at 356°F (180°C) for 40 minutes.
- Final Touch:
- Remove the tart from the oven, brush with the remaining caramel, and allow to cool.
Enjoy your Apple Caramel Tart, a perfect marriage of classic fall flavors that's sure to warm your heart and delight your taste buds!