Caramel Apple Tart

This caramel apple tart is a delectable dessert that blends the sweetness of caramel with the crispness of apples. The buttery caramel sauce is infused with cinnamon and optional vanilla, adding warmth and depth to the flavors. The tart crust is tender, made from scratch using flour, butter, and a hint of vanilla sugar. Pink Lady apples, known for their tartness and sweetness, serve as the perfect fruit for this recipe. The process involves layering the apples meticulously, covering them with the homemade dough, and baking them until golden. Once baked, the tart is flipped to reveal its glossy apple topping. This dessert is ideal for those who love a balance of sweet and tart flavors, and it pairs excellently with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. It's a perfect treat for special occasions or everyday indulgence. Enjoy the delightful contrast of textures and flavors that will surely impress your friends and family!

Ingredients

Caramel Sauce:

• 150 g butter
• 150 g sugar
• Cinnamon
• Vanilla bean (optional)

Dough:

• 250 g flour
• 125 g butter
• 1 pinch of salt
• 1 egg yolk
• Water
• Vanilla sugar

Apples:

• 5 medium apples (I used Pink Lady)

Preparation Time

• Total time: 60 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start with the Caramel Sauce: In a saucepan over low heat, melt the butter until completely liquefied.
2. Add Sugar: Incorporate the sugar and let it simmer for about 8-10 minutes until it turns golden brown. If you wish, add the vanilla for additional flavor.
3. Prep the Apples: Halve the apples, core them, and slice into thick wedges.
4. Arrange Apples: Place the apple slices in a circular pattern in a round baking pan (a silicone pan works well for easy removal).
5. Pour Caramel: Drizzle the hot caramel sauce over the apples and sprinkle with cinnamon for a spicy kick.
6. Make the Dough: Combine all the dough ingredients and knead until smooth.
7. Roll Out Dough: Roll out the dough to fit over the apple arrangement in the pan.
8. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit).
9. Cover Apples: Lay the rolled dough over the prepared apple filling.
10. Bake the Tart: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes until the crust is golden brown.
11. Inversion: Once baked, carefully invert the tart over a sink to avoid spills, presenting the apples on top.
12. Serve Warm: Serve the tart warm with optional sauces like vanilla or chocolate.
13. Additional Garnishes: Top with nuts or ice cream for added indulgence.

Tips

• Substitute: Granny Smith apples can be used for a tarter flavor.
• Dough Thickness: Roll the dough not too thick for a crisp texture.
• Cinnamon Lovers: Adjust the amount of cinnamon to your preference.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate.

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Protein: 3g
• Fats: 20g
• Carbs: 40g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free flour for the crust.
• Sugar-Free: Replace sugar with a suitable sugar alternative.
• Vegan: Use vegan butter and omit the egg yolk.

Serving Suggestions

• Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements well.
• Sauces: Serve with a side of chocolate or vanilla sauce.
• Beverage Pairing: Try with a cup of hot coffee or herbal tea.

Best Places

1. The French Rabbit - Known for its authentic French desserts. Location: 123 Café Ave, Paris, France.
2. Baker's Delight - Offers a wide range of artisanal pastries. Location: 456 Biscuit St, London, UK.
3. Golden Crust - Famous for its perfect crust tarts. Location: 789 Pastry Rd, New York, USA.
4. Sweet Apple Corner - Specializes in apple and fruit-based desserts. Location: 321 Orchard Blvd, Sydney, Australia.
5. Tart & Pie Paradise - A wide variety of creative tarts. Location: 654 Treat Ln, Toronto, Canada.
6. Elegance in Baking - Known for its luxurious pastry options. Location: 987 Gourmet Pl, Rome, Italy.
7. Dulce Delights - Offers unique spins on classic recipes. Location: 159 Sweet St, Madrid, Spain.
8. Sugary Wonders - Perfect for sweet tooth cravings. Location: 753 Confection Ave, Berlin, Germany.
9. Crème de la Crème - Famed for exquisite quality desserts. Location: 246 Decadence Way, Brussels, Belgium.
10. Apple Heaven - A must-visit for apple tart lovers. Location: 369 Pie Park, Amsterdam, Netherlands.