Apple pie

Apple tart is a classic dessert, cherished by generations, that brings a touch of nostalgia and comfort in every slice. This simple yet delicious recipe transforms fresh apples into a sweet masterpiece, perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family gathering or a quiet afternoon at home. With every bite, you'll feel the warm aroma of vanilla and the natural sweetness of the apples, all within a slightly fluffy crust. Let's get to work!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 25-30 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients

- 2 eggs
- 150 g sugar
- 100 g margarine (or butter, for a richer taste)
- 150 ml full-fat yogurt (Greek yogurt is an excellent option)
- 250 g wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 pinch of baking powder (about 5 g)
- 2 large apples (tart apples, like Granny Smith, are ideal)

Preparing the dough

1. Beat the eggs and sugar: In a large bowl, crack the two eggs and add the sugar. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to beat the eggs until frothy and doubled in volume. This will incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in a fluffy dough.

2. Add the margarine: Melt the margarine (or butter, if using) and let it cool. Gradually incorporate it into the egg and sugar mixture, stirring continuously to prevent the eggs from curdling.

3. Incorporate the yogurt and baking powder: Add the yogurt and mix well. Activate the baking powder with a little yogurt (or vinegar) before adding it to the mixture. This step is crucial for achieving a fluffy texture.

4. Add the flour: Sifting the flour is an important step to prevent lumps. Gradually add the flour, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense dough.

5. Beat the egg whites: In another bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. This step adds volume and air to the dough. Once the egg whites are ready, gently fold them into the main mixture using a spatula, taking care not to lose the air from the egg whites.

Preparing the apples

1. Cleaning and slicing the apples: Wash the apples well and peel them. Use a sharp knife to slice them thinly, about 0.5 cm thick. They will become soft and delicious during baking.

Assembling the tart

1. Preparing the baking tray: Grease a baking tray with margarine (or butter) to prevent sticking. You can also use parchment paper for extra safety.

2. Spread the dough: Pour the dough into the prepared tray and level it evenly with a spatula. This will form the perfect base for the delicious apples.

3. Add the apples: Arrange the apple slices on top of the dough, covering the entire surface. You can arrange the slices in concentric circles or in a rustic pattern, depending on your preference.

4. Sprinkle sugar: To enhance the flavor of the apples and achieve a slightly caramelized crust, sprinkle a little sugar over the apples. If you want an extra touch of flavor, you can also add a bit of cinnamon.

Baking

1. Preheat the oven: Set the oven to 180°C (350°F) and let it preheat well.

2. Bake the tart: Place the tray in the preheated oven and let it bake for 25-30 minutes or until the tart is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Serving

Once the tart is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before slicing. It is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve the tart with a dollop of whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a caramel sauce for an extra touch of flavor. A cup of tea or a glass of dry white wine perfectly complements this delicacy.

Chef's tip

To add a touch of originality, you can experiment with different types of apples. Sweet apples, such as Fuji or Gala, provide a rich flavor and a crunchy texture. You can also try adding some chopped nuts or raisins to the dough for extra texture and taste.

Nutritional benefits

This apple tart is not only delicious but also healthy. Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, contributing to heart health and maintaining a healthy digestion. Additionally, yogurt adds protein and probiotics, beneficial for the digestive system.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of fruit?
Yes, you can replace the apples with pears, peaches, or cherries. Just make sure to adjust the baking time, as different fruits may require different times to soften.

2. How can I make the tart less sweet?
You can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe or use a natural sweetener, such as honey or maple syrup.

3. How do I keep the tart fresh?
The tart keeps well at room temperature, covered with plastic wrap, for 2-3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it thaw completely before serving.

Conclusion

This apple tart is definitely a dessert worth trying. It is simple, quick, and, most importantly, extremely tasty. Whether you make it for a special occasion or just to treat yourself, the result will always be delicious. So, don't wait any longer and unleash your creativity in the kitchen! Enjoy!