Apple Tart

Apple crostata is a simple and delicious dessert that brings a touch of nostalgia with every bite. This recipe perfectly combines the crunchy texture of the dough with the sweetness of fresh fruit, while the aroma of lemon and jam creates a wonderful contrast. Even if the pictures didn't turn out as you hoped, the taste speaks for itself! Get ready to amaze your family and friends with this special crostata, which can quickly become your household favorite.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 1 egg
- 110 g sugar
- 2 tablespoons limoncello (or lemon juice)
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 250 g flour 00 (or 200 g flour and 50 g starch for a more tender texture)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 70 ml sunflower oil
- 1 packet vanilla sugar (optional)

For the filling:
- 2-3 golden apples (or other preferred apples)
- Peach or apricot jam
- Lemon juice (to prevent the apples from oxidizing)
- Sugar (to taste)
- 1 packet gelatin (optional, for a glossy appearance)

Necessary utensils
- Tart pan (preferably with a removable bottom)
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Knife for cutting apples

Instructions

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, beat the egg with the sugar, gradually adding the vanilla sugar and lemon zest. Continue mixing until the mixture becomes homogeneous and slightly frothy. Add the sunflower oil and limoncello. Mix well.

2. Incorporating dry ingredients: In another bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder. Add the flour mixture to the wet composition, gently mixing with a spatula until a homogeneous dough forms. If you want a more tender texture, use the combination of 200 g flour and 50 g starch.

3. Resting the dough: Form a ball from the dough and wrap it in plastic wrap. Place it in the freezer for 15 minutes. This step is crucial for obtaining a crispy and easy-to-work dough.

4. Preparing the apples: Meanwhile, wash and peel the apples. Cut them into thin slices and sprinkle with lemon juice and a little sugar to give them a sweet-sour taste and to prevent oxidation.

5. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius.

6. Assembling the tart: Remove the dough from the freezer. Roll it out between two sheets of parchment paper, obtaining a sheet about 5 mm thick. Transfer the dough sheet to the tart pan, lined with oil and flour, making sure to cover the edges well. Prick the dough all over with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming.

7. Adding the jam: In the center of the dough, spread a few tablespoons of peach or apricot jam. This will add sweetness and moisture, making the crostata even more flavorful.

8. Arranging the apples: Lay the apple slices evenly over the jam, arranging them nicely. Sprinkle sugar over the apples to caramelize them during baking.

9. Baking: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until the dough is golden and the apples are cooked.

10. Preparing the gelatin (optional): While the crostata cools, you can prepare the gelatin according to the instructions on the package. This can be poured over the baked apples for a glossy appearance.

11. Serving: Let the crostata cool completely before cutting it into slices. It can be served plain or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh cream alongside, for a perfect contrast of textures and flavors.

Useful tips
- If you want to add extra flavor, you can add cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple mixture.
- The crostata can be kept well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days, but its taste is best when fresh.
- You can experiment with different types of jams, such as raspberry or berry, to achieve interesting variations.

Nutritional benefits
Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and antioxidants, contributing to good health. Moreover, the jam adds natural sweetness, although it's best to choose jams without added preservatives, if possible.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of fruit? Yes, you can use pears, peaches, or even berries, depending on your preferences.

2. How can I make the dough even crispier? Replace part of the flour with starch or almond flour for a more interesting texture.

3. Can I make the crostata without eggs? Yes, you can try using an egg substitute (such as banana puree or yogurt) to achieve a similar dough.

Apple crostata is a dessert that not only delights the taste buds but also brings a smile to the faces of loved ones. Don't forget to keep notes on your favorite variations and share this recipe with your dear ones! This quick and simple dessert can easily become a tradition in your family. Enjoy!

 Ingredients: for the dough: 1 egg, vanilla, 110 g sugar, lemon zest, 2 tablespoons of limoncello, 250 g flour 00 (or 200 g flour and 50 g starch for tenderness), 1 teaspoon of baking powder, 70 ml sunflower oil. for the filling: peach or apricot jam, 2 or 3 golden apples, a packet of gelatin, lemon juice, sugar.

 Tags:  apple pie