Sunk Apple Tart

The submerged apple tart is a dessert that combines simplicity with elegance, bringing a delicious taste and a remarkable presentation to your table. This dessert is not just a recipe, but an experience that will transport you into a world of flavors and textures, making it a perfect choice for a family meal or a personal indulgence. I will show you step by step how to prepare this savory tart, with tricks and useful tips to achieve a flawless result.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8

Necessary ingredients:

*For the tart base:*
- 220 g flour
- 110 g butter (preferably at room temperature)
- 1 egg
- 70 g powdered sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- A pinch of salt

*For the filling:*
- 4 apples (choose sweet and fragrant apples, such as Golden or Gala)
- 150 g sugar
- 3 eggs + 1 yolk
- 200 g sour cream (for a creamier texture, you can use heavy cream)
- Juice of one lemon
- Powdered sugar for decoration

Recipe history:
The submerged apple tart is a classic dessert, often associated with cooking traditions from various cultures. This recipe has spread over time due to its simplicity and accessible ingredients. Apples, a symbol of abundance and health, are the stars of this dessert, offering not only a pleasant taste but also many nutritional benefits.

Step by step: Preparing the submerged apple tart

1. Preparing the dough:
Start by gathering all the ingredients for the tart base. In a large bowl, combine the flour, powdered sugar, vanilla sugar, and salt. Add the diced butter and rub it with your fingers until you obtain a texture similar to sand.
Add the egg and mix everything until the dough comes together. If it is too dry, you can add a tablespoon of cold water.
Wrap the dough in aluminum foil and let it chill in the refrigerator for 1 hour. This step is essential as it helps to firm up the butter and achieve a flaky crust.

2. Preparing the apples:
After the dough has chilled, remove it and let it temper for 10 minutes. Meanwhile, peel the apples and cut them into quarters. Remove the core and, using a knife, make a few shallow cuts on each quarter, being careful not to cut all the way through. This trick helps the apples cook evenly and absorb the flavors from the filling. Drizzle them with lemon juice to prevent oxidation and keep their beautiful color.

3. Assembling the tart:
Preheat the oven to 190°C. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface until you get a thin sheet. Line a tart pan with a diameter of 28-30 cm with the dough, ensuring that you cover the edges well. If the dough tears, don't worry, you can easily patch it up.

4. Preparing the filling:
In a separate bowl, beat the 3 eggs and the yolk together with 150 g of sugar until the mixture is frothy and light in color. Add the sour cream and lemon zest, gently mixing until combined.

5. Final assembly:
Arrange the apple quarters in a circular shape over the dough in the pan. Carefully pour the egg and sour cream mixture over the apples, ensuring that all spaces are filled. If you want to make sure all the apples are covered, you can gently swirl the pan to evenly distribute the cream.

6. Baking:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the cream is set and lightly golden, and the apples are cooked.

7. Cooling and serving:
Once baked, remove the tart from the oven and let it cool on a platter. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch. This tart can be served warm or cold, and it is equally delicious in both versions.

Useful tips:
- If you want to add a special touch, you can sprinkle a little cinnamon over the apples before covering them with the cream. This will add a warm and comforting aroma.
- You can replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter version without compromising the creamy texture.
- If you prefer a less sweet tart, reduce the amount of sugar by 20% and add a splash of vanilla extract for extra flavor.

Ideal pairings:
This submerged apple tart pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or fresh whipped cream. Additionally, a glass of sweet wine or a fragrant tea will perfectly complement the meal.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can experiment with pears or peaches, but the baking time may vary.

2. How can I store the tart to keep it fresh?
The tart can be stored in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 3-4 days.

3. Is it possible to freeze the tart?
We recommend freezing it before baking. Once it has been baked, the texture may change.

In conclusion, the submerged apple tart is a simple yet flavorful dessert that combines tradition with innovation. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this recipe will surely impress everyone who tastes it. So put on your apron and let's bring this delicious tart to life!

 Ingredients: Base: - 220 g flour - 110 g butter - 1 egg - 70 g powdered sugar - 1 packet of vanilla sugar - a pinch of salt Filling: - 4 apples - 150 g sugar - 3 eggs + 1 yolk - 200 g sour cream - lemon juice - powdered sugar for finishing