Alsatian apple tart

Alsatian Apple Tart: a sweet and comforting delight

If you're looking for a quick and simple dessert that boasts a refined taste and attractive presentation, the Alsatian apple tart is the perfect choice. This classic recipe combines the intense flavor of apples with a delicate cream, all set on a crispy and flavorful tart base. I invite you to discover each step of this recipe with me, which promises to delight your senses and become a family favorite.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:

For the tart dough:
- 100 g margarine (or butter for a richer taste)
- 200 g flour
- 50 ml cold water
- A pinch of salt

For the apple filling:
- 4 apples (choose sweet and fragrant varieties like Golden or Fuji)
- 200 ml milk
- 200 ml heavy cream
- 150-200 g sugar (adjust based on the sweetness of the apples)
- 2 tablespoons Bourbon vanilla sugar (for added flavor)
- A pinch of cinnamon (optional but recommended)
- 2 eggs

Helpful tips for ingredients:
- Using high-quality margarine or butter will affect the texture and taste of the dough. Butter adds a better flavor, but margarine can provide a crispier dough.
- Apples are the main ingredient in this recipe, so make sure to choose fresh and juicy apples. You can experiment with different types of apples to find your preferred combination.

Recipe history:
The Alsatian apple tart has deep roots in European culinary tradition, being a dessert that has delighted generations of homemakers. This type of tart is often associated with the cold season when apples are in full season, but it can be enjoyed anytime. This recipe is an excellent way to highlight the flavor of apples, combined with the creamy texture of the filling.

Step by step: Preparing the Alsatian apple tart

1. Preparing the dough:
- In a large bowl, mix the flour with the margarine (or butter) and a pinch of salt. Use your fingers to rub the ingredients together until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs.
- Gradually add the cold water, a little at a time, kneading gently until you obtain a smooth but firm dough. Do not knead too much, or the dough will become elastic.
- Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a crispy dough.

2. Preparing the apple filling:
- Peel the apples, remove the cores, and slice them thinly, about 1 cm thick. Ensure the slices are uniform for even baking.
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

3. Assembling the tart:
- Remove the dough from the refrigerator and roll it out on a lightly floured surface until it's about 5 mm thick. Place the dough in the tart pan, ensuring to cover the sides as well.
- Prick the dough all over with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking. This will help the dough rise evenly without puffing up.
- Arrange the apple slices in a “flower” shape or in concentric circles, creating a beautiful appearance. Sprinkle the vanilla sugar over the apples.

4. Baking:
- Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, until the apples start to soften.
- Meanwhile, in a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar, then add the milk and heavy cream. Mix well until you have a smooth mixture.
- Once the apples have softened, remove the tart from the oven and pour the egg and cream mixture over the apples. This will form a creamy and delicious crust during baking.

5. Finishing and serving:
- Return the tart to the oven and bake for another 10-15 minutes, until the filling is golden and set.
- When the tart is ready, let it cool slightly in its pan, then transfer it to a cooling rack.
- Once cooled, you can sprinkle a dusting of cinnamon or powdered sugar on top, depending on your preference.

Serving suggestions:
The Alsatian apple tart is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it plain or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. It is also perfect for a festive meal or a gathering with friends.

Possible variations:
- Add chopped nuts or hazelnuts to the filling for a crunchy texture.
- Replace some of the apples with pears for a different flavor.
- Experiment with different spices, such as ginger or nutmeg, for a more exotic taste.

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

- How can I store the tart?
The tart keeps well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 2-3 days.

- Can I freeze the tart?
Yes, you can freeze the tart before baking it. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in a freezer bag.

Nutritional benefits:
This tart, besides being a delicious dessert, also brings nutritional benefits due to the apples. Apples are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet.

Now that you have all the necessary details, it's time to get cooking! Whether you prepare it for family or friends, the Alsatian apple tart will bring smiles and joy in every slice. Enjoy!