French Apple Tart

If you’re looking for a show-stopping dessert that’s as comforting as a warm hug, this French Apple Tart is just what you need. With its buttery, flaky crust and sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples, this delightful treat brings a taste of rustic French charm right to your kitchen. Whether it’s for a cozy family gathering or a special occasion, this tart is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your cravings.

I’ve always loved making this tart on crisp autumn afternoons when the air is filled with the scent of falling leaves and baked apples. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but elegant enough to serve at holiday dinners. Plus, it fills the house with an inviting aroma that makes everyone feel at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: This tart comes together quickly with just a few simple steps and ingredients.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the sweet apple filling and flaky crust.
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the dough in advance, saving time on busy days.
• Versatile flavors: Feel free to mix different apple varieties for a flavor explosion!
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s Thanksgiving or just a Sunday dinner, this dessert fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this French Apple Tart is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Gather these items, and you’ll be on your way to baking a delicious dessert!

For the Crust:

• 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

For the Filling:

• 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

For the Topping:

• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 tablespoons turbinado sugar
• 1 tablespoon apricot jelly or jam (optional for glaze)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to customize your French Apple Tart:

• Add nuts: Toss in some chopped walnuts or pecans with the apple filling for added crunch.
• Experiment with spices: Try adding nutmeg or ginger along with the cinnamon to spice things up.
• Use different fruits: Mix in pears or berries for an exciting twist on flavor.
• Make it mini: Use small tart pans for individual servings that are perfect for parties!

How to Make French Apple Tart

Step 1: Make the Crust

Start by lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. In your food processor, combine the flour, salt, and sugar—just pulse it briefly to mix. Next, add those cold butter pieces and process until they resemble peas; about five seconds will do! Then sprinkle in that ice-cold water and pulse until everything is moistened but crumbly. Transfer your dough to a floured surface and knead just until it comes together; pat it into a disk. Roll it out into an 8-10 inch circle before placing it back onto your parchment-lined baking sheet. Pop that in the fridge while we prepare our filling!

Step 2: Make the Filling

It’s time to prepare those glorious apples! Begin by peeling, coring, and slicing them into ⅛-inch-thick slices—aim for about four cups of apples here. Transfer those slices into a large bowl and toss them with sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, melted butter, and salt until they’re well coated. This mixture is where all that yummy flavor comes from!

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Take your chilled dough from the fridge and slide that parchment paper onto your countertop. Roll out your dough right on the parchment into a 14-inch circle that’s about ⅛ inch thick. Don’t stress if the edges look a bit ragged; rustic is part of its charm! After rolling it out, place it back onto the baking sheet so it can hold those beautiful apple slices.

Step 4: Assemble the Tart

Sprinkle some flour evenly over your pastry before arranging those apple slices on top—overlapping them in concentric circles works beautifully! Fold those edges of dough over the apples in a free-form style; creating little pleats adds character! If any tears appear while folding, just pinch off some dough from elsewhere to patch them up.

Step 5: Add Egg Wash & Sugar

Grab your pastry brush and give that pleated dough an even coat of beaten egg—it helps create that lovely golden color while baking. Sprinkle one tablespoon of turbinado sugar over both the crust and fruit before chilling everything in the fridge for about 15-20 minutes.

Step 6: Bake It Up!

While waiting for those final moments of chill time to pass, preheat your oven to 350°F with an oven rack positioned in the center. Once ready, bake your tart for about 55-65 minutes until those apples are tender and your crust turns golden brown. A little bubbling juice from those apples might escape onto the pan—that’s totally okay!

Step 7: Optional Glaze & Serve

As your tart cools on a rack after baking (and trust me—it’s going to smell divine!), you can whip up an optional glaze if you like! Just mix apricot jam with water in a small bowl and heat until bubbling (about 20 seconds in the microwave). Brush this syrupy goodness over those warm apples!

Lastly, use two large spatulas to carefully transfer your tart onto a serving plate or cutting board. Slice it up warm or let it reach room temperature—either way, enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making French Apple Tart

Creating a stunning and delicious French Apple Tart is easier than you think! Here are some handy tips to ensure your tart turns out perfectly every time.

• Use cold ingredients: Starting with very cold butter and water is essential for achieving a flaky crust. The cold temperatures help the butter remain solid until baking, creating those delightful layers in the pastry.
• Don’t overprocess the dough: When mixing the dough, stop as soon as the butter is about the size of peas. Overprocessing can lead to a tough crust instead of a tender one.
• Mix apple varieties: Using a mix of sweet and tart apples enhances the flavor profile of your tart. Different apples provide varying textures and tastes, making each bite a delightful surprise.
• Let it cool before slicing: Allowing the tart to cool on a rack gives it time to set, making it easier to slice without disturbing the layers. Plus, this cooling period lets the flavors meld beautifully!
• Experiment with spices: While cinnamon is classic, adding nutmeg or cardamom can elevate the flavor even further. A little experimentation can personalize your tart and make it truly unique.

How to Serve French Apple Tart

Serving your French Apple Tart beautifully can turn an everyday dessert into something special! Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar on top adds a touch of sweetness and makes your tart look bakery-fresh.
• Fresh mint leaves: A few sprigs of mint offer a pop of color and freshness that complements the warm apple flavors beautifully.
• Whipped coconut cream: For a dairy-free option, serve with whipped coconut cream. It adds richness and pairs wonderfully with the tangy apples.

Side Dishes

• Vanilla ice cream: The creamy texture contrasts delightfully with the flaky crust and soft apples, providing a classic dessert combination.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over each slice adds an indulgent touch that enhances the flavors without overpowering them.
• Greek yogurt: A spoonful of plain Greek yogurt on the side offers a tangy balance to the sweetness of the tart while adding protein for a more filling dessert.
• Coffee or tea: Serving slices of this tart alongside cups of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea creates a cozy experience perfect for gatherings or quiet evenings at home.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re well on your way to impressing friends and family with your homemade French Apple Tart! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This French Apple Tart is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dessert any time! You can easily make the dough ahead of time or store leftovers for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover tart at room temperature, loosely covered with foil or parchment paper.
• Consume within 2-3 days for the best flavor and texture.

Freezing

• To freeze the assembled tart, place it on a baking sheet in the freezer until solid.
• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the tart on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Enjoy warm for the best taste!

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making a French Apple Tart.

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

Yes! It’s great to mix different varieties of apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, and Fuji for enhanced flavor and texture.

How do I keep my French Apple Tart crust from getting soggy?

Sprinkling flour over the pastry before adding apples helps absorb excess moisture. Additionally, ensure the crust is golden brown when baking.

Can I make this French Apple Tart ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough up to three days in advance. Just let it sit at room temperature before rolling out.

What can I serve with my French Apple Tart?

This tart pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or whipped coconut cream for a delightful contrast!

Final Thoughts

Making this French Apple Tart is not just about enjoying a slice of deliciousness; it’s an experience filled with love and warmth. The combination of flaky crust and sweet, spiced apples makes it truly special. I hope you have as much fun preparing it as you’ll have sharing it with friends and family. Happy baking!