Apple tart with meringue
Apple Meringue Tart
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total: 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Today, I propose a delicious and comforting recipe, perfect for family relaxation moments, as well as for special occasions. The apple meringue tart is a dessert that combines the sweetness of caramelized apples with the fluffy texture of meringue, creating an irresistible contrast. The origins of this tart are lost in history, but it is known to have been a favorite in numerous cultures, bringing joy and warmth on colder days.
Ingredients
For the crust:
- 4 eggs
- 10 tablespoons of sugar (for the crust)
- 10 tablespoons of oil
- 10 tablespoons of milk
- 12 tablespoons of flour
- 1 packet of baking powder
For the filling:
- 1 kg apples (preferably tart apples, such as Granny Smith)
For the meringue:
- 8 tablespoons of sugar (for the meringue)
- A pinch of salt
Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the crust
1. Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Make sure the bowl in which you will beat the egg whites is clean and dry to achieve perfect meringue.
2. Using a mixer, beat the yolks with the 10 tablespoons of sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and the sugar is completely dissolved.
3. Stop the mixer and switch to a wooden spoon. Gradually add the oil, mixing vigorously. This will add moisture and make the crust fluffier.
4. Add the milk and mix well. Then, in a small bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder. Gradually add the flour to the yolk mixture, mixing with the spoon until everything is homogenized.
5. Preheat the oven to 280 degrees Celsius (top and bottom heat) and prepare a baking tray by lining it with parchment paper. This will prevent the crust from sticking.
6. Pour the mixture into the tray, smoothing the surface, and place it in the oven for about 15 minutes. The crust will not bake completely, but it will form a solid base for the apples.
Step 2: Preparing the apples
1. While the crust is baking, prepare the apples. Peel and grate or cut them into small cubes.
2. In a saucepan, add the 3 tablespoons of sugar and caramelize it over low heat. Be careful not to burn it; stir constantly until it turns golden.
3. Add the caramelized apples to the saucepan and mix well until they soften and soak up the flavor of the caramelized sugar. This step will give a rich and sweet-tart taste.
Step 3: Preparing the meringue
1. In another clean bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until they form a foam. Continue to beat and gradually add the 8 tablespoons of sugar until you achieve a firm and shiny meringue.
2. Remove the crust from the oven and evenly place the caramelized apples over it.
3. Use a spatula to spread the meringue over the apples, ensuring that it completely covers the fruit.
Step 4: Final baking
1. Place the tart back in the oven for another 10-15 minutes, or until the meringue turns golden and crispy on the surface. Be careful with the color to avoid burning.
2. Once the tart is ready, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. It is ideal to serve it warm, but it is also an excellent choice when cold.
Serving and suggestions
The apple meringue tart is perfect to be served alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a caramel sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Additionally, a cup of aromatic tea, such as mint tea or fruit tea, pairs wonderfully with this dessert.
Nutritional benefits
This tart contains apples, which are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and antioxidants. Although it contains sugar, when consumed in moderation, the tart can be part of a balanced diet, bringing a touch of sweetness to your life.
Possible variations
If you want to experiment, you can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramelized apples for an even more aromatic flavor. You can also try using other fruits, such as peaches or cherries, to diversify this classic dessert.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, but it is recommended to choose tart apples, which will balance the sweetness of the meringue.
2. How can I prevent the meringue from collapsing?
Make sure the bowl in which you beat the egg whites is clean and dry. Also, do not add the sugar too quickly.
3. Can the tart be stored for the next day?
Yes, but it is recommended to consume it on the same day to maintain the texture of the meringue.
In conclusion, the apple meringue tart is not just a delicious dessert, but also a way to bring people together. Whether you serve it at a holiday meal or simply as a treat on a weekend evening, every bite will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. So, embrace this cooking process and enjoy every step!
Ingredients: 4 eggs, 10 tablespoons of grated sugar (for the base), 8 tablespoons of grated sugar (for the meringue glaze on top of the cake), 10 tablespoons of oil, 10 tablespoons of milk, 12 tablespoons of flour, 1 packet of baking powder, 1 kg of apples
