Alsatian apple tart

Alsatian apple tart – a perfect combination of flavors, textures, and nostalgia. This quick dessert recipe will turn every meal into a celebration of taste and is ideal for pampering moments or for impressing guests with a simple yet sophisticated dish. In less than an hour, you will have a delicious tart with a flaky crust and a creamy filling that blends the sweetness of apples with the aroma of vanilla and cinnamon.

Total preparation time: 50 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8

The history of Alsatian apple tart

This tart is a symbol of pastry tradition in regions with a rich cooking culture, especially appreciated for the use of local and seasonal ingredients. Apples, an accessible and easy-to-grow fruit, have always been the basis of many desserts, and the combination with cream and eggs has led to the creation of delicious dishes that have stood the test of time.

Ingredients for the tart crust:

- 200 g margarine (or butter for a richer taste)
- 400 g flour
- 50-100 ml cold water (the amount varies depending on the humidity of the flour)
- A pinch of salt

Ingredients for the filling:

- 4 apples (choose sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith or Golden Delicious)
- 200 ml milk
- 200 ml cream (you can use cooking cream or heavy cream for a more intense flavor)
- 200 g sugar
- 4 eggs
- 3 packets of Bourbon vanilla sugar
- A pinch of cinnamon (optional, for extra flavor)

Steps for preparation:

1. Preparing the tart dough:
- Start by melting the margarine (or butter) in a small saucepan or microwave, then let it cool slightly.
- In a large bowl, sift the flour and add a pinch of salt. This step ensures a fine texture for the dough.
- Make a well in the center of the flour and pour in the melted margarine. Mix the ingredients with a spatula or your hands until a homogeneous mixture forms.
- Gradually add the cold water and continue kneading until you obtain an elastic dough. If the dough is too dry, add a little more water.
- Shape into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step will help the dough firm up and become easier to roll out.

2. Preparing the filling:
- While the dough is cooling, peel the apples and slice them thinly. You can sprinkle the apple slices with lemon juice to prevent oxidation.
- In a bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until frothy. Add the vanilla sugar and mix well.
- Incorporate the cream and milk, mixing until you achieve a uniform composition. Add a pinch of cinnamon for a flavorful taste.

3. Assembling the tart:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C.
- Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface until you obtain a thin sheet. Transfer the dough to a tart pan, trimming the excess dough from the edges.
- Arrange the apple slices evenly on the bottom of the tart, then pour the cream and egg mixture over the apples.
- Bake the tart in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the filling is firm and lightly browned.

4. Serving:
- Let the tart cool slightly before slicing. You can serve it warm or at room temperature, plain or with a dollop of whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or caramel sauce for an extra indulgence.

Useful tips:
- You can experiment with other fruits, such as pears or peaches, to vary the flavor of the tart.
- If you want to add a crunchy note, sprinkle some chopped nuts or almond flakes on top before baking the tart.
- Ensure that the apples are well-cooked but not too soft, to maintain a pleasant texture during baking.

Nutritional benefits:
This tart is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Apples are an excellent source of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to digestive health. The cream and eggs add protein and healthy fats, providing a nutritional balance.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use butter instead of margarine? Yes, butter will provide a richer taste, but make sure to control the temperature to avoid excessive melting of the dough.
- How can I store the tart? The tart keeps well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 2-3 days. You can gently reheat it before serving.
- Is this recipe suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe using vegan ingredients, such as plant-based butter, almond milk, and egg substitutes.

Delicious pairings:
The Alsatian apple tart pairs perfectly with a warm drink, such as fruit tea or a sweet white wine. It can also be served alongside a green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the sweetness of the dessert.

In conclusion, the Alsatian apple tart is more than just a simple cake. It is an invitation to enjoy simple moments, to bring family and friends together, and to turn an ordinary day into an unforgettable memory. Don't hesitate to experiment and bring your own variations to make each tart unique and special. Bon appétit!