Apple and walnut tart

Apple and walnut tart: a classic delight that combines the sweetness of apples with the crunchy texture of walnuts, perfect for any occasion. This quick dessert recipe is simple yet full of flavor, and each bite will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Whether it's a gathering with friends, a family celebration, or a simple weekend treat, the apple and walnut tart will surely be the star of the table.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8

Ingredients:

For the crust:
- 3 large eggs
- 200 g sugar
- 140 g flour
- 11 tablespoons water
- ½ teaspoon baking powder

For the filling:
- 4-5 apples, preferably sweet-tart varieties
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 100 g ground walnuts
- 100 g strawberry jam (or another preferred jam)

For greasing the pan:
- 30 g margarine (or butter)
- 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs

Recipe history:

The apple tart is a dessert that has stood the test of time, often associated with pleasant childhood memories when grandmothers spoiled us with freshly baked treats. Apples, a common ingredient in many cultures, have been used for centuries in making sweets, and the combination with walnuts adds a crunchy texture and rich flavor. This recipe has been adapted over the years but remains a staple of homemade desserts.

Making the apple and walnut tart:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure to have fresh, quality apples that will bring a delicious flavor. Sweet-tart apples are ideal for balancing the sweetness of the jam.

2. Preparing the apples: Wash the apples well and peel them. Cut them into quarters and sprinkle with lemon juice to prevent oxidation. This will help retain the color and add a touch of acidity that will balance the sweetness.

3. Preparing the filling: In a bowl, mix the ground walnuts with the strawberry jam. This combination will add a delicious flavor to your tart. If you wish, you can experiment with other types of jam, such as apricot or peach, to give a personal touch to the recipe.

4. Preparing the pan: Grease a 26 cm pan with margarine (or butter) and line the bottom with breadcrumbs. This step is essential to prevent the tart from sticking to the pan and to give it a crunchy base.

5. Arranging the apples: Place the apple quarters in the pan, distributing them evenly. On top of each piece of apple, place a teaspoon of the walnut and jam mixture. These layers of apples and filling will create a wonderful texture.

6. Preparing the crust: In a large bowl, beat the whole eggs with the sugar for 7-8 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and light in color. It's important to dedicate time to this step, as the air introduced will make the crust fluffier.

7. Adding water and flour: Gradually add the 11 tablespoons of water while continuing to mix. Finally, fold in the flour mixed with baking powder using a spatula. Mix gently so you don't lose volume.

8. Assembling the tart: Pour the crust mixture over the apples in the pan, ensuring that you cover the filling evenly.

9. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake the tart for about 40 minutes, or until the crust is nicely browned and passes the toothpick test (when the toothpick comes out clean, the tart is ready).

10. Cooling and serving: Once the tart is done, let it cool in the pan for 3-4 minutes. Then, invert it onto a plate. You can serve it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delicious contrast.

Useful tips and tricks:

- If you want to add a hint of flavor, you can sprinkle a little cinnamon over the apples before baking. This will enhance the flavors and add a pleasant aroma.
- Instead of strawberry jam, you can use berry jams or even a combination of jams for a complex flavor.
- The tart can be stored in the fridge for 3 days, but it is recommended to be consumed in the first days to enjoy the crunchy texture of the crusts.

Nutritional benefits:

This apple and walnut tart is not only delicious but also nutritious. Apples are rich in fiber and vitamin C, while walnuts provide healthy fats and protein. This makes it a better choice compared to other processed desserts, offering you both pleasure and essential nutrients.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can experiment with pears or peaches, but make sure the fruits are well ripe.

2. How can I make the tart less sweet?
Reduce the amount of sugar in the crust and choose a less sweet jam or even use sugar-free jam.

3. What is the best way to store the tart?
Keep the tart in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its freshness.

4. What drinks pair well with this tart?
The apple and walnut tart pairs wonderfully with a fruit tea or a sweeter white wine.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! The apple and walnut tart will surely become a favorite due to its wonderful taste and ease of preparation. Enjoy!