These mini apple tarts are the perfect bite-sized treat, combining the tartness of fresh apples with a hint of cinnamon and lemon. Encased in a flaky, buttery pastry, these tarts are a simple yet elegant dessert that can be enjoyed warm or cold. With their sweet, spiced apple filling and golden crust, they are perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to festive celebrations. The recipe yields approximately 22 mini tarts, making them ideal for sharing!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These mini apple tarts offer a delicious blend of flavors and textures. The filling is made from diced apples, gently cooked with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. The pastry is flaky and buttery, providing the ideal contrast to the soft, caramelized apples. The dough comes together quickly with simple ingredients and can be prepared ahead of time, making these tarts an easy yet impressive dessert. Whether served warm with a dusting of powdered sugar or cold from the fridge, these tarts are a delightful treat.
The Perfect Occasion
These mini apple tarts are versatile enough for any occasion. Serve them at brunch, afternoon tea, or as a dessert at your next family gathering or holiday celebration. They’re also perfect for a cozy night in when you’re craving something sweet and comforting. Because they can be enjoyed hot or cold, they’re great for picnics, potlucks, or as a portable snack. You can also gift them as a homemade treat—just pack them in a cute box, and you’ve got a thoughtful, delicious gift!
Decoration Tips
For a beautiful finish, dust the tarts with powdered sugar right before serving. You could also drizzle a little caramel sauce on top or add a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on the side for an extra touch of indulgence. If you want to add a festive twist, sprinkle some cinnamon or nutmeg over the top, or use decorative pastry cutters to create fun shapes for the dough lids. For a glossy look, brush the tops of the tarts with an egg wash before baking.
Ingredients for the Filling (Makes 22 Tarts)
- 15g unsalted butter
- 4 apples (Granny Smith or any variety), unpeeled, cored, and diced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1/4 lemon
- 4 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions for the Filling
- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
- Add the diced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 15 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the mixture is fragrant.
- Remove from heat and let the filling cool completely before using.
Ingredients for the Pastry Dough
- 175g cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 250g all-purpose flour
- Pinch of salt
- 6 tablespoons ice-cold water
Instructions for the Dough
- Preheat your oven to 170°C (340°F).
- In a large bowl, mix together the cold butter, flour, and salt. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, blend the ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add the ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, and mix until the dough just comes together. Be careful not to overwork the dough.
- Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
Assembling the Mini Tarts
- Once the dough has chilled, roll it out on a floured surface to a thickness of 3-4mm (about 1/8 inch).
- Cut out circles approximately 12 cm (4.7 inches) in diameter using a cookie cutter or a glass.
- Spoon about 1-1.5 tablespoons of the cooled apple filling into the center of each dough circle.
- Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, leaving the center open, to form little tart shapes.
- Brush the tops of the tarts with cold water and sprinkle with granulated sugar.
Baking the Tarts
- Place the tarts on a lined baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the pastry is golden and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the tarts cool on a wire rack.
Serving the Tarts
Once the mini tarts have cooled, dust them with powdered sugar. Serve them warm or cold, depending on your preference.
Enjoy!
These mini apple tarts, with their warm cinnamon-apple filling and buttery, flaky crust, are perfect for any occasion. Serve them as a comforting snack or a delightful dessert, and enjoy the delicious flavors of homemade goodness!