Apple pie according to an old recipe

Apple Tart from an Old Recipe

If you're looking for a quick and delicious dessert that keeps calorie worries at bay while delighting your taste buds, you've come to the right place! Apple tart is a classic dessert that is part of the culinary traditions of many cultures. This easy and flavorful recipe is perfect for any occasion and can be adapted to your preferences. Whether you choose to use butter or margarine, this apple tart will always bring a smile to your face.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 250 g flour
- 140 g butter (or margarine for a vegan option)
- a pinch of salt
- 6 tablespoons cold water (preferably with ice)
- 4 apples (choose sweet and aromatic varieties, such as Golden or Granny Smith)
- 3 tablespoons water
- 3 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 sachet of vanilla sugar

Recipe history:
Apple tart is a dessert that has crossed generations, with deep roots in home cooking. It is a symbol of comfort and love, often associated with childhood memories spent around the table, where the aroma of baked apples entices the whole family. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or on its own, apple tart remains a favorite of many homemakers.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the apples: Start by peeling the apples, then remove the cores and cut them into small cubes. This is an essential step, as evenly cut apples will cook uniformly, providing a pleasant texture to your tart. Place the apple cubes in a pot and add the 3 tablespoons of water. The water will help in the cooking process, preventing the apples from burning.

2. Boiling the apples: Place the pot over medium heat and let the apples boil for 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure they don't stick. After 5 minutes, add the 3 tablespoons of sugar, mixing well. Let them boil for another 5 minutes on low heat, stirring again. When the apples become soft, turn off the heat and let them cool slightly. At this stage, add the cinnamon and vanilla sugar for a perfect aroma.

3. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, mix the flour with a pinch of salt. Then, add the cold butter cut into cubes. It's important for the butter to be cold to achieve a flaky texture! Use your fingers to incorporate the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles crumbs. Gradually add the cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough becomes slightly moldable. Avoid over-kneading to prevent activating the gluten.

4. Forming the crust: Divide the dough into two equal parts. Place the first part in a baking dish lined with parchment paper. Use your fingers to evenly spread the dough across the bottom of the dish, ensuring it reaches the edges.

5. Adding the apples: Place the warm apples over the dough in the dish, distributing them evenly. The aroma of the apples will penetrate the dough during baking, making the tart truly delicious.

6. Creating the top crust: From the second part of the dough, you can form strips to place over the apples in a rustic style, or you can roll out the dough to completely cover it. The strips will give a special look to your tart.

7. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C (moderate heat) and bake the tart for 30-35 minutes until golden and crispy. During this time, the aroma of apples and cinnamon will fill the entire house!

8. Finishing touches: Once the tart has cooled, dust it with powdered sugar flavored with vanilla for an elegant appearance. This garnish not only enhances the look but also adds a touch of sweetness.

Serving suggestions:
Apple tart is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or freshly whipped cream for an extra treat. It also pairs perfectly with a fragrant tea or a glass of sweet wine.

Possible variations:
Experiment with different types of apples or add chopped nuts for extra crunch. You can replace sugar with honey or natural sweeteners for a healthier option.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Sure! Peaches, pears, or even berries are excellent for this recipe.

2. Can I make the tart gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour, but make sure to add a binding agent like xanthan gum.

3. How long does the tart last?
The apple tart keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days.

Nutritional benefits:
Apples are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, making them a healthy ingredient. This tart is an excellent way to include fresh fruits in your diet, offering a combination of sweet and tart that will lift your spirits.

Calories:
A serving of apple tart has approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used. If you use margarine instead of butter, you can slightly reduce the calories.

In conclusion, apple tart is a simple yet flavorful dessert that will keep you coming back to this recipe. Choose to experiment, add your personal touch, and enjoy the moments spent with loved ones, savoring each slice of apple tart!

 Ingredients: 250 g flour 140 g butter or margarine salt 6 teaspoons ice-cold water 4 apples 3 tablespoons water 3 tablespoons granulated sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 vanilla sugar