Apple tart with salted caramel

Apple and Salted Caramel Tart: A Delight That Combines Tradition with Refinement

Who doesn't love an apple tart? This classic dessert, cherished by countless generations, always finds a place in our hearts, associated with pleasant memories and unforgettable moments. The combination of sweet apple flavors and salted caramel adds a touch of innovation, transforming a traditional recipe into an unforgettable culinary experience. So, get ready to explore this recipe for apple and salted caramel tart, perfect for any occasion.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the dough:
- 50 grams butter, at room temperature
- 50 grams sugar
- 100 grams flour
- 1/2 egg (you can use the whole egg and save the rest for another recipe)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- a pinch of salt

For the filling:
- 1 apple, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon Muscat wine (or another sweet wine)
- 1 teaspoon rum extract
- 1/2 tablespoon honey
- 2 teaspoons salted caramel (plus extra for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the dough: In a large bowl, add the butter and sugar. Use an electric mixer to combine them until the mixture becomes smooth and slightly frothy, with a lighter color. This step is essential, as the air incorporated will make the dough fluffier.

2. Adding the dry ingredients: Next, add the flour, egg, salt, and vanilla extract. Mix everything with a spatula or wooden spoon until a uniform dough forms. Avoid overmixing, as the dough may become elastic and tough.

3. Resting the dough: Wrap the dough in plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for 2 hours. This is an important step, as it will help the dough become easier to roll out and more tender.

4. Preparing the filling: In a separate bowl, combine the diced apple with the cinnamon, Muscat wine, rum extract, and honey. Let the mixture sit for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to meld and the apples to soak up the sweetness of the ingredients.

5. Preheating the oven: Preheat the oven to 210 degrees Celsius. This step will ensure even baking of the tart.

6. Forming the tart: Divide the dough into two equal parts. Roll out each part on a lightly floured surface so that it can cover two tart pans with a diameter of 6 cm. Make sure the dough is thin enough but not so thin that it breaks. Use a fork to poke the base of the dough in several places; this will allow steam to escape during baking.

7. Baking the tart: Place the dough in the tart pans and put them in the oven for 10 minutes at 210 degrees Celsius. The dough should become lightly golden.

8. Filling and final baking: Remove the pans from the oven and fill each tart with the apple mixture. Then, place them back in the oven at 200 degrees Celsius for another 10 minutes. The apples should become soft, and the dough should develop a crispy texture.

9. Finishing the tart: Finally, when the tarts are still warm, add a teaspoon of salted caramel on top of each serving. Let them cool for a few minutes before removing them from the pans.

10. Serving: Serve the tarts warm, alongside a generous scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of temperatures and textures will create a delicious contrast that will delight the taste buds.

Practical Tips

- Choosing apples: Opt for crisp apples, such as green or firm-textured varieties, that hold up well during baking. Granny Smith or Fuji apples are excellent choices.
- Salted caramel: You can make salted caramel at home using just sugar, water, cream, and a pinch of salt. This will add a personalized touch to your recipe.
- Variations: Feel free to experiment by adding pecans or toasted almonds to the filling for extra crunch or even a bit of grated ginger for a spicy flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

This apple tart is not only delicious but also nutritious. Apples are an excellent source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, contributing to digestive health and strengthening the immune system. Additionally, the salted caramel adds a small dose of energy, perfect for satisfying a sweet craving.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits?
Absolutely! You can substitute apples with pears, apricots, or peaches. Just be sure to adjust the baking time according to the chosen fruits.

2. How can I store the tart?
The tart can be stored in the refrigerator, covered, for 2-3 days. Gently reheat it in the oven before serving to restore its crispy texture.

3. What beverages pair well with this tart?
Consider the beverage aspect! A sweet wine or a winter tea with cinnamon and oranges would perfectly complement this dessert.

This recipe for apple and salted caramel tart represents not just a dessert but an opportunity to create memories with loved ones. Whether you serve it at a festive meal or simply as a treat after a long day, this tart will bring smiles to the faces of those who taste it. So, get ready to impress your family and friends with this culinary masterpiece!