Apple pie

The caramelized apple tart is a classic dessert that brings together the sweet and sour flavors of apples in an irresistible combination. This recipe not only evokes a sense of nostalgia but also brings unforgettable joy to festive tables or ordinary days. Preparing an apple tart is a true art, but with my help, you'll become an expert in this field. Let's discover together how to make this delicacy!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients:
- 10-12 apples (choose sweet and sour varieties like Granny Smith or Golden Delicious)
- 6 tablespoons of sugar (for caramelization)
- 100 g margarine (or butter for a richer taste)
- 6 eggs (at room temperature)
- 200 g sugar (for the sponge cake)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 6 tablespoons of flour
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder

Short story:
The apple tart has deep roots in culinary tradition, prepared in various forms around the world. From the crunchy crust to the soft apple filling, each recipe adds a personal touch, and our recipe today is perfect for adapting to your tastes. It can be served plain or with a dollop of whipped cream, and each slice tells a story of comfort and the joy of cooking at home.

Steps to achieve a perfect apple tart:

1. Preparing the apples:
Start by peeling the apples. Cut them in half and remove the seeds. Make sure the apples are well peeled, as the skin can give an unpleasant texture in the tart. A suggestion: if you want a more intense flavor, you can add a few drops of lemon juice on the apples to keep them fresh.

2. Caramelizing the sugar:
In a round pan or pot, add the 6 tablespoons of sugar. Place the pan over medium heat and let the sugar melt. Stir gently with a wooden spatula to prevent burning. Once the sugar turns golden, spread it evenly on the bottom of the pan and a bit on the edges, about two fingers high. This step is essential to achieve that caramelized crust, which will give a special taste to the tart.

3. Arranging the apples:
Cut the margarine into small pieces and place it in the pan with the caramelized sugar. Then, arrange the apples with the hollow side down. They will turn into a delicious filling that will absorb the sweetness of the caramel.

4. Baking the apples:
Place the pan in the preheated oven at 180°C and let the apples bake for 20-25 minutes until they become soft but not completely mushy. This step will ensure that the apples have the perfect texture when served.

5. Preparing the sponge cake:
While the apples are baking, you can prepare the sponge cake. Separate the eggs, placing the egg whites in a large bowl and the yolks in another. Whisk the yolks with 200 g of sugar and the vanilla sugar until you get a creamy, light-colored mixture. Then add the flour and baking powder, mixing gently to incorporate the ingredients.

6. Beating the egg whites:
Beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, then gradually fold them into the yolk mixture. Here it is essential to mix carefully using a spatula to keep the mixture airy.

7. Assembling the tart:
Once the apples are baked, remove the pan from the oven and pour the sponge cake batter over the apples, ensuring they are evenly covered. Return the pan to the oven and bake for another 20-25 minutes. Check the tart with a toothpick; if it comes out clean, it’s done!

8. Serving:
After the tart is baked, let it cool for about 10 minutes. Use a knife to loosen the edges from the pan, then carefully invert the tart onto a plate. You can serve it warm, but it’s just as delicious cold, plain or with a topping of whipped cream, ice cream, or even a caramel sauce.

Practical tips:
- You can also experiment with other fruits, such as pears or peaches, to add a personal touch.
- If you want to enhance the flavor, add a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to the apple mixture.
- For a healthier version, replace margarine with coconut oil or almond butter.

Nutritional benefits:
Apples are an excellent source of dietary fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making them a wonderful ingredient for a healthier dessert. With this tart, you can enjoy the sweet taste without sacrificing health!

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of sugar for caramelization?
Yes, you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor, but be careful with the caramelization temperature, as it can burn more quickly.

2. How do I store the tart to keep it fresh?
Store the tart in an airtight container in the refrigerator to prevent it from drying out. It can be consumed within 3-4 days.

3. What drinks pair well with the apple tart?
A warm fruit tea or a semi-dry white wine are excellent options to complement the dessert.

This apple tart is not just a simple dessert; it is a love letter to cooking and a perfect way to bring a touch of joy into your life and that of your loved ones. I wish you success in making this tart and don’t forget to share the final result with your loved ones!