Embrace the essence of fall with this Heavenly Homemade Apple Tart, where the timeless duo of apples and cinnamon finds a new home within layers of thin, crispy pastry. This recipe is a love letter to apple pie lovers everywhere, promising an unforgettable blend of sweet, spiced apple filling encased in a delicate shortbread crust. Crafted for a 23 cm baking dish, this tart is not just a dessert—it’s an experience, perfect for those who cherish the simple joy of homemade pastries.
Why You’ll Love This: The magic of this apple tart lies in its simplicity and the depth of its flavors. The filling, a tender mixture of sweet apples softened with orange juice and zest, cinnamon, and a hint of sugar, is beautifully complemented by the light, flaky crust. Each bite is a harmonious blend of warmth, sweetness, and a whisper of citrus, making it an irresistible treat for any season.
Perfect Occasion: This apple tart shines brightest when shared among friends and family on a cozy evening. It’s the perfect finale to a hearty meal or a splendid companion to your afternoon tea. Whether it’s a casual gathering, a holiday celebration, or a moment of solitude with a book, this tart adds a touch of warmth and comfort.
Decoration Tips:
- Arrange the apple slices on top in a spiral or fan pattern for an elegant presentation.
- A light dusting of powdered sugar before serving adds a touch of sophistication and sweetness.
- For a festive touch, garnish with a few sprigs of fresh mint or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
- For the Dough:
- 70g cold butter, cubed
- 140g flour
- 1 egg yolk
- A pinch of salt
- 30-40 ml cold water
- For the Apple Filling:
- 4-5 medium sweet apples, peeled and cored
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- Juice and zest of 1/2 orange
- For Decoration:
- 3-4 medium-sized apples, thinly sliced
Instructions:
- Begin with the shortbread dough: Combine butter, flour, and salt. Add the yolk and water, knead quickly, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- For the filling: Dice the apples and cook with sugar, cinnamon, cornstarch, orange juice, and zest until soft. Mash lightly.
- Roll out the dough, place in a dish, and prick. Bake with parchment and weights at 347°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, then without parchment for another 10.
- Add the filling to the baked crust, top with apple slices, sprinkle with sugar, and bake for 40-45 minutes at 347°F (175°C). Cover with foil if the apples brown too quickly.
Dive into the delicious world of homemade pastries with this apple tart, and let the sweet, spiced flavors transport you to a place of culinary bliss. Perfect when warm, and divine with vanilla ice cream. Give it a try, and savor every bite!
