Apple pie

Apple tart, a classic delicacy, combines the fragility of the crust with the sweetness of the apples, all in a dance of flavors that delights the senses. This recipe is not just a simple tart; it is a story about comfort, family moments, and the joy of adding a touch of magic to every meal. Not only is it a quick and easy dessert, but it is also a perfect opportunity to enjoy autumn fruits, making each slice a true explosion of taste.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 14-16 minutes
Total time: 46 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients

For the crust:
- 280 g flour
- 50 g powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon bourbon vanilla sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 120 g cold butter, diced
- 1 egg

For the filling:
- 6 apples (choose sweet and aromatic ones)
- 100 g sugar
- 10 g cornstarch
- 50 ml cold milk
- 1 teaspoon spice mix (cinnamon, lemon, ginger, nutmeg)
- 30 ml maple syrup
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- 1 tablespoon bourbon vanilla sugar

Instructions

1. Preparing the crust:
In a large bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, vanilla sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. Mix the dry ingredients well to ensure even distribution.
Add the cold butter cubes and, using your fingers or a pastry cutter, crumble the butter into the flour mixture until you achieve a texture similar to wet sand.
Finally, add the egg and mix until the dough comes together. Do not knead too much to avoid a dense crust. Wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a flaky crust.

2. Preparing the filling:
Meanwhile, peel the apples, remove the seeds, and cut them into small cubes. Place the apple cubes in a saucepan along with the sugar and 200 ml of water.
Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples become soft, about 5-10 minutes.
Once the apples are softened, remove them from heat and mash them using a blender or a potato masher to create a smooth puree.
In another small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in the cold milk, then add it to the apple puree. Return the mixture to the heat and cook for a few minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens slightly.
Finally, add the spice mix and maple syrup, stirring well to combine the flavors.

3. Assembling the tart:
Preheat the oven to 200°C.
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface until you achieve a sheet about 5 mm thick.
Place the dough in a tart pan or individual molds, trimming any excess dough from the edges.
Using a fork, poke holes in the base of the dough to prevent it from puffing up during baking. Bake the crust in the oven for 8 minutes, until it turns lightly golden.

4. Adding the filling:
While the crust is baking, peel and slice the remaining apple into thin slices. Toss the apple slices with the melted butter and bourbon vanilla sugar.
After 8 minutes, remove the crust from the oven and evenly pour the apple puree over its surface. Decorate with the apple slices, arranging them nicely for an appealing look.

5. Finishing the baking:
Put the tart back in the oven and bake for an additional 6-8 minutes, until the apples are slightly caramelized and the crust is well baked.
Remove the tart from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing.

Serving and suggestions

The apple tart can be served warm or at room temperature, ideally alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can add a caramel sauce or a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra touch of flavor.

Variations and tips

- Apple variations: You can experiment with different types of apples, such as Granny Smith for a tart contrast or Honeycrisp for a sweeter taste.
- Alternative spices: Instead of the spice mix, you can add freshly grated ginger or lemon zest for a hint of freshness.
- Flavored crust: You can replace some of the flour with almond flour for a richer texture and a subtle nutty flavor.

Nutritional benefits

This apple tart is a good source of fiber thanks to the apples and can be a healthier choice compared to other desserts, with a moderate calorie content. Each serving contains about 250 calories, depending on the ingredients used.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use canned apples?
While you can use canned apples, it is recommended to choose fresh apples for a better texture and more intense flavor.

- How can I store the tart?
The tart keeps well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 3-4 days. You can reheat it in the microwave to restore some of its freshness.

- Is it possible to make the tart without sugar?
Yes, you can use natural sweeteners like stevia or erythritol, but the taste and texture may vary.

This apple tart will not only delight your taste buds but will quickly become a family favorite, evoking memories of long lines at the market for fresh apples and warm moments spent in the kitchen. So, get ready to enjoy a delicious dessert, full of memories and flavors!

 Ingredients: For the dough 280 g flour 50 g powdered sugar 1 teaspoon bourbon vanilla sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 120 g cold butter, diced 1 egg For the filling 6 apples 100 g sugar 10 g cornstarch 50 ml cold milk 1 teaspoon spice mix (cinnamon, lemon, ginger, nutmeg) 30 ml maple syrup 1 tablespoon melted butter 1 tablespoon bourbon vanilla sugar