Introduction

The Alsatian Apple Tart, or Tarte aux Pommes Alsacienne, is a delightful French dessert that beautifully combines the sweetness of apples with a buttery crust. Known for its simplicity and flavor, this recipe by Elisa offers a traditional take on a cherished classic. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a treat, this tart is sure to impress.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 1 pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
– 6 medium-sized apples (preferably a mix of tart and sweet varieties)
– 100 grams of sugar
– 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
– 30 grams of butter
– 1 egg (for egg wash)

Prep Time

Preparation of the Alsatian Apple Tart takes approximately 20 minutes. This includes the time needed to peel and slice the apples as well as prepare the pie crust.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cooking time for the tart is about 45 minutes. Therefore, the total time from start to finish is roughly 1 hour and 5 minutes. This recipe yields a delicious tart that serves about 8 people, making it perfect for gatherings and family dinners.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the pastry

In a bowl, mix together the flour, sugar, and salt. Add the cold, diced butter and rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles fine breadcrumbs. Then, incorporate the egg yolk and enough cold water to form a smooth dough.

Chill the dough

Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to ensure it firms up.

Preheat the oven

Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) to preheat while you prepare the filling.

Prepare the apple filling

Peel, core, and slice the apples thinly. Then, in a bowl, toss the apple slices with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice to enhance their flavor.

Roll out the pastry

After chilling, remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a circle that fits your tart pan.

Assemble the tart

Transfer the rolled-out pastry to the tart pan. Trim any excess dough and pricking the bottom with a fork. Spread the apple filling evenly over the pastry base.

Bake the tart

Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.

Cool and serve

Allow the tart to cool for a few minutes before serving. You may optionally serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of cream.

Notes

Choosing apples

Select a mix of sweet and tart apples for the best flavor combination.

Serving suggestions

This tart pairs well with whipped cream or custard for added richness.

Storage tips

Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven for best results.

Cook techniques

Preparing the Dough

To create the perfect pastry base for the tart, ensure that your butter is cold and cubed. Mix the flour, sugar, and butter until it resembles breadcrumbs, then add cold water to form a dough.

Rolling Out the Dough

Roll the dough on a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking. Aim for an even thickness of about 3mm for a crisp pastry that can hold the filling without becoming soggy.

Blind Baking

To prevent a soggy bottom, blind bake the pastry shell. Line the dough with baking paper and fill it with baking beads or dried beans before placing it in the oven until lightly golden.

Choosing Apples

Select a mix of tart and sweet apples for optimal flavor. Varieties like Granny Smith and Golden Delicious work well together for balance.

Arranging the Apples

Slice the apples evenly to ensure they cook uniformly. Start from the outer edge of the tart and spiral inward for a visually appealing presentation.

Making the Custard Filling

Combine eggs, sugar, and cream to create the custard filling. Whisk thoroughly to ensure even mixing and a smooth texture.

Baking the Tart

Bake the tart until the apples are tender and the custard has set. Keep an eye on the color of the pastry to avoid over-baking.

Cooling the Tart

Allow the tart to cool completely on a wire rack. This helps to set the filling and makes slicing easier.

FAQ

What type of apples are best for apple tart?

Using a combination of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Golden Delicious, will provide the best flavor balance.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before using it.

How do I prevent the tart from becoming soggy?

Blind baking the pastry crust before adding the filling helps to create a barrier and prevents sogginess.

What can I serve with apple tart?

Apple tart pairs wonderfully with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

How should I store leftover apple tart?

Store any leftover apple tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven if desired.

Conclusion

The Alsatian apple tart is a delightful dessert that brings together the comforting flavors of sweet apples, buttery pastry, and aromatic spices. Perfect for any occasion, it is sure to impress your guests and provide a slice of homey warmth. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this tart leaves a lasting impression.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Classic French Tarte Tatin

Try this upside-down caramelized apple tart for a delicious twist. The rich caramel complements the tartness of the apples beautifully.

Cinnamon Apple Crumble

A warm and comforting dessert that combines juicy apples with a crumbly topping of oats, butter, and spices. Serve it with whipped cream for an extra treat.

Apple and Pear Galette

Mix tart apples with sweet pears in a rustic galette for a stunning and easy dessert. This free-form pastry is both delicious and visually appealing.

Spiced Apple Muffins

Incorporate the flavors of the Alsatian apple tart into muffins, adding cinnamon and nutmeg for extra warmth. Perfect for breakfast or a snack.

Caramel Apple Cheesecake

A rich cheesecake layered with caramelized apples, combining the creaminess of cheesecake with the familiar flavors of the apple tart.

Apple and Almond Tart

Add a nutty flavor to the traditional apple tart by incorporating ground almonds into the filling for an extra texture and richness.