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Introduction
The Alsatian apple tart, or “tarte aux pommes alsacienne,” is a delightful dessert that originates from the Alsace region of France. Known for its buttery pastry and sweet apple filling, this recipe captures the essence of traditional French baking. It’s a perfect treat for family gatherings or a simple afternoon snack, showcasing the harmonious flavors of fresh apples and fragrant spices.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– For the pastry:
– 250g all-purpose flour
– 125g unsalted butter, softened
– 75g granulated sugar
– 1 egg
– A pinch of salt
– For the filling:
– 4-5 medium-sized apples (preferably Granny Smith or Golden Delicious)
– 100g granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon apple brandy or calvados (optional)
– Juice of half a lemon
– 1 egg (for egg wash)
Prep Time
Preparation time for the Alsatian apple tart is approximately 30 minutes. This includes the time needed to prepare the pastry dough and the apple filling before assembly.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
– Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
– Total Time: 1 hour (including prep and baking)
– Yield: This recipe serves 6-8 people, depending on portion sizes.
Enjoy making this delightful dessert, and savor every bite of this classic Alsatian treat!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and salt. Cut in cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Add cold water gradually, mixing until the dough comes together. Form the dough into a disk, wrap in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out the chilled dough into a circle, approximately 3 mm thick. Carefully transfer it to a pie dish, pressing it into the bottom and up the sides. Trim excess dough from the edges.
Step 4: Prepare the Apples
Peel, core, and slice the apples into thin wedges. Mix them in a bowl with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
Step 5: Arrange the Apples
Layer the apple slices evenly over the dough in a circular pattern, starting from the outer edge and working inward.
Step 6: Bake the Tart
Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-40 minutes, or until the apples are tender and the crust is golden brown.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the tart to cool slightly before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Note 1: Choosing Apples
For the best flavor, use a combination of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp.
Note 2: Serving Suggestions
This tart is delicious when served with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Note 3: Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Cook techniques
Preparing the tart crust
The tart crust is crucial for a successful apple tart. Make sure to mix the butter with the flour until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs before adding the other ingredients. This ensures a flaky texture.
Blind baking
Blind baking is a technique used to pre-bake the crust. This prevents it from becoming soggy when the filling is added. Use pie weights or dried beans to hold the crust down while baking.
Apple preparation
Choosing the right apples is essential for flavor and texture. A combination of tart and sweet apples will give your tart a balanced taste. Slice the apples evenly for uniform cooking.
Layering the apples
When layering the apples in the tart, aim for an overlapping pattern. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also allows for even cooking and caramelization of the apples.
Enhancing flavors
Add ingredients like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor of the apples. A touch of lemon juice can also brighten the overall taste and prevent the apples from browning.
Finishing touches
For a beautiful finish, brush the top of the tart with melted butter before baking. This will give the tart a golden color and a slightly crisp texture.
FAQ
Can I use a store-bought crust?
Yes, you can use a store-bought crust for convenience. Just ensure it fits the tart pan properly and follow the baking instructions.
What types of apples are best for a tart?
A mix of tart and sweet apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp works well to achieve a balanced flavor.
How do I prevent my tart crust from shrinking?
To prevent shrinking, chill the dough before rolling it out and make sure not to stretch it while fitting it into the pan.
Can I make the tart ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tart a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
How should I store leftovers?
Leftover apple tart can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Conclusion
The Alsatian apple tart is a delightful dessert that beautifully captures the essence of seasonal apples. With its buttery crust and sweet, spiced filling, it is sure to impress your family and friends. This classic recipe not only showcases the natural flavors of apples but also serves as a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on various occasions. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or chilled with a dollop of whipped cream for a delectable treat.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Apple Cinnamon Crumble
A warm apple cinnamon crumble can be the perfect pairing with the Alsatian apple tart. The crunchy topping adds a delightful texture and extra flavor, making it a fantastic combination for dessert lovers.
Caramel Sauce
Drizzling a rich caramel sauce over your apple tart or serving it alongside can elevate the entire dessert experience. The sweetness of the caramel complements the tartness of the apples beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream
Pairing the tart with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream creates a classic dessert duo. The cold, smooth texture of the ice cream contrasts wonderfully with the warm apple tart.
Spiced Pear Tart
For a fruity twist, consider making a spiced pear tart as an alternative. Pears bring a different sweetness and flavor that can provide a delightful variation while still keeping the spirit of the original dessert.
Chocolate Ganache
For chocolate lovers, serving a side of rich chocolate ganache can add an indulgent element to your apple tart. The bitterness of chocolate complements the sweetness of the apples in a unique and delectable way.
