French Apple Tart

If you’re looking for a dessert that brings warmth and joy to your home, this French Apple Tart is the answer. It’s a recipe that has been cherished in my family for years, and every time I make it, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia. The buttery, flaky crust paired with sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples creates a delightful treat that is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a festive family gathering.

What makes this tart even more special is its simplicity. You don’t need to be a master baker to impress your loved ones with this rustic charm. It’s one of those recipes that seems fancy but is actually easy to whip up!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can create a stunning dessert without any fuss.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Everyone loves apple desserts! This tart will surely please both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile: Perfect for any season or celebration—from autumn gatherings to holiday feasts.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance or even freeze the assembled tart for later baking.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh apples and warm spices makes each bite irresistible.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This French Apple Tart uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Gather these items to create your delicious masterpiece:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1½ sticks (12 tablespoons) very cold unsalted butter, cut into ½-inch pieces
• ¼ cup very cold water
• 1¾ lbs baking apples (3 large) (see note)
• ⅓ cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ⅛ teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar
• 1 tablespoon apricot jelly or jam, optional for glaze

Variations

This French Apple Tart is wonderfully flexible! Here are some creative variations to make it your own:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch and flavor contrast.
• Mix in Berries: Incorporate fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries with the apples for a fruity twist.
• Use Different Spices: Experiment with nutmeg or cardamom alongside cinnamon for a unique spice profile.
• Try Other Fruits: Substitute some apples with pears or peaches when they’re in season!

How to Make French Apple Tart

Step 1: Make the Crust

Start by preparing the crust because it needs some time in the fridge. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and combine flour, salt, and sugar in a food processor. Pulse briefly before adding very cold butter. Process until the mixture resembles peas—this helps create that flaky texture we adore! Then sprinkle ice-cold water over the mix and pulse until it’s just moistened. Transfer your dough to a lightly floured surface and knead gently until it forms a ball.

Step 2: Make the Filling

While your crust chills, let’s focus on those lovely apples! Peel, core, and slice them into thin rounds—aiming for about 4 cups total. In a big bowl, toss those apple slices with sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, melted butter, and salt. The combination of these ingredients will infuse the apples with delightful flavor as they bake.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Once your dough has chilled, roll it out directly on the parchment paper into a circle about 14 inches wide. Don’t stress if the edges look rough; this rustic look adds to its charm! Place the dough back on the baking sheet so it can hold its shape while you assemble.

Step 4: Assemble the Tart

Sprinkle flour over your pastry before layering on those beautiful apple slices in concentric circles. There’s no need for perfection here—just let your creativity shine through! Fold over the edges of the dough around the filling to create pleats; this will give it that gorgeous rustic appearance.

Step 5: Brush with Egg Wash

Using a pastry brush, coat those lovely pleats with beaten egg—this gives your tart its golden brown finish. Sprinkle turbinado sugar over both the crust and fruit for added sweetness and crunch. Let it chill again in the fridge while you preheat your oven.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake your tart for 55 to 65 minutes until those apples are tender and the crust turns golden brown. A little juice bubbling out onto the pan is perfectly fine; just clean up any burnt bits once it cools.

Step 7: Glaze (Optional)

If you’re feeling fancy, mix apricot jelly with some water and heat until bubbling—about 20 seconds in the microwave should do it! Brush this syrup over your cooled apples for an extra shiny finish.

Step 8: Serve

Transfer your beautiful tart to a serving plate using two large spatulas. Slice it up warm or at room temperature—and enjoy every delicious bite! Remember, it’s best enjoyed on the same day it’s made but can last loosely covered on your countertop for a few days.

Now you’re ready to share this delightful French Apple Tart with friends and family—trust me; they’ll fall in love at first bite!

Pro Tips for Making French Apple Tart

Making a French Apple Tart may seem daunting, but with a few helpful tips, you can create a stunning dessert that will impress everyone at your table!

• Use cold ingredients: Keeping your butter and water very cold is essential for achieving that flaky crust. Cold ingredients help to create steam during baking, which puffs up the pastry and makes it irresistible.
• Don’t overwork the dough: When mixing the dough, aim for just enough blending to combine the ingredients. Overworking can lead to a tough crust instead of a tender one.
• Choose the right apples: Opt for baking apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith, which hold their shape and provide a nice balance of sweetness and tartness. Mixing different varieties enhances the flavor profile of your tart.
• Let it chill: Allowing the assembled tart to chill before baking helps prevent shrinking and ensures that it maintains its shape while baking. It also gives you time to clean up!
• Bake until golden: Keep an eye on your tart as it bakes; you want it beautifully golden brown. This not only looks appealing but also indicates that the crust is perfectly cooked.

How to Serve French Apple Tart

Serving your French Apple Tart can be just as delightful as making it! Here are some presentation ideas to elevate your dessert experience.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting: A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of sweetness and makes your tart look extra special.
• Fresh mint leaves: Adding a few fresh mint leaves alongside each slice brings in a pop of color and a refreshing aroma.
• Cinnamon sticks: Placing a cinnamon stick next to each serving not only enhances visual appeal but also hints at the delicious spices within.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy, smooth texture of vanilla ice cream contrasts perfectly with the warm apple tart, creating a delightful combination.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, whipped coconut cream is an excellent choice that complements the flavors beautifully while adding lightness.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over each slice adds richness and an extra layer of sweetness that many will love.
• Hot spiced cider: Serve warm spiced cider alongside for a comforting drink that harmonizes with the flavors of fall in this tart.

By following these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll not only make an exquisite French Apple Tart but also create a memorable dining experience! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This French Apple Tart is not only a delightful treat but also perfect for meal prep! With a little planning, you can have this delicious dessert ready to impress your family and friends with ease.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover tart at room temperature, loosely covered, for up to 2-3 days.
• If you prefer, you can refrigerate it, but be aware that the crust may lose some of its flakiness.

Freezing

• Wrap the assembled but unbaked tart in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Alternatively, freeze baked slices in an airtight container for easy access later.

Reheating

• To reheat, warm slices in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• For the whole tart, cover with foil and heat for about 20-25 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful French Apple Tart!

Can I use different types of apples for my French Apple Tart?

Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, use a mix of baking apples such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji. This combination adds depth to your French Apple Tart.

How long does it take to make a French Apple Tart?

This recipe takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish, including prep time and baking. It’s worth every minute for such a delicious dessert!

Is the French Apple Tart good for special occasions?

Yes! The rustic charm and great taste of this French Apple Tart make it an excellent choice for gatherings, holidays, or just a cozy night in. Everyone will love it!

Can I make the crust ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the dough up to 3 days in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature before rolling.

Final Thoughts

I hope you feel inspired to try making this wonderful French Apple Tart! With its buttery crust and sweet apple filling, it’s a recipe that brings warmth and joy to any occasion. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experiences—I’d love to hear how yours turns out!