Apple Pie with Vanilla Cream

Apple Tart with Vanilla Cream: A Classic Delight

Who doesn't love an apple tart? This classic dessert is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a true pleasure for the eyes. With a delicate crust that hides juicy slices of apples and a vanilla cream that enriches every bite, this tart quickly becomes everyone's favorite. Moreover, making it is a delightful activity, perfect for spending time in the kitchen, whether alone or with loved ones.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients:

For the crust:
- 250 g flour
- 100 g butter (cut into cubes, at room temperature)
- 30 g sugar
- 1 egg
- 1/2 packet baking powder
- a pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 3 large apples (we recommend Golden variety for sweetness and flavor)
- lemon juice (to prevent the apples from browning)

For the cream:
- 1 egg + 1 yolk
- 250 ml milk (preferably whole for a richer cream)
- 30 g flour
- 70 g sugar
- grated zest of one lemon (for extra flavor)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Preparation:

1. Preparing the crust: In a large bowl, add the cubed butter, egg, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Using a mixer, mix the ingredients until you get a smooth mixture. It is important for the butter to be at room temperature for easy incorporation.

2. Adding the flour: Sift the flour together with the baking powder directly into the bowl with the butter mixture. Knead with your hands until you get a fairly firm but homogeneous dough. This will form the perfect base for your tart.

3. Chilling the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a delicate and crispy crust.

4. Preparing the cream: In another bowl, use the mixer to beat the egg and yolk with the sugar until the mixture becomes creamy and light in color. Then add the flour, grated lemon zest, and vanilla extract, mixing well. Finally, gradually incorporate the milk, continuing to mix.

5. Preparing the apples: Peel the apples and slice them thinly. To prevent them from browning, sprinkle them with a little lemon juice.

6. Assembling the tart: Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out in a buttered and floured tart pan (24-26 cm). Make sure to line the edges of the pan well and, using a fork, prick the crust in several places to prevent it from puffing up during baking.

7. Arranging the apples: Place the apple slices in a concentric pattern, one next to the other, to create a pleasing appearance. This is when the tart truly becomes attractive!

8. Adding the cream: Carefully pour the milk and egg mixture over the apples. Sprinkle a little sugar on top to achieve a lightly caramelized crust during baking.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Place the tart in the middle of the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. Note that baking time may vary depending on the type of oven, so check the tart starting at minute 35 to ensure it is baked evenly.

10. Serving: The tart can be served warm or cold, with or without whipped cream. Sometimes, I like to pair it with vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast. It is a versatile dessert that pairs perfectly with a cup of tea or coffee.

Helpful tips:
- If you want a more intense flavor, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the apple mixture.
- Use different varieties of apples to add flavor nuances; a combination of sweet and tart apples will make the tart even more interesting.
- If you want to experiment, replace some of the flour with ground almonds for a different textured crust.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
A serving of apple tart with vanilla cream contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the ingredients used, as well as a source of vitamins from the fruit and calcium from the milk. Apples are rich in fiber, and the vanilla cream adds a delicious flavor that makes this dessert not only tasty but also a bit more nutritious.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Of course! You can experiment with peaches, cherries, or even berries, adjusting the baking time according to the chosen fruits.

2. How can I make the tart less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar in the vanilla cream and use tarter apples.

3. Can I make the tart a day in advance?
Absolutely! The tart keeps well in the refrigerator and becomes even more delicious the next day.

This apple tart with vanilla cream is not just a dessert but a memory of moments spent with family, of smiles, and the simple joy of savoring something good. Try this recipe and let yourself be carried away by its flavors! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: Base: 250 g flour, 100 g butter, 30 g sugar, 1 egg, 1/2 packet of baking powder, a pinch of salt. Filling: 3 large apples (Golden). Cream: 1 egg + 1 yolk, 250 ml milk, 30 g flour, 70 g sugar, grated zest of one lemon, 2 teaspoons vanilla essence.

 Tags:  apple pie