Caramel apple tart

Caramel Apple Tart - a delicacy that combines the sweet taste of caramel with the unmistakable aroma of baked apples. This is a dessert that not only delights the taste buds but also brings a touch of nostalgia and warmth with every bite. Get ready to discover a quick, simple, and incredibly tasty recipe, perfect for any occasion, from a festive meal to a simple afternoon spent with family.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients needed for the tart dough:
- 250 g flour
- 100 g margarine or lard (for a richer taste, use butter)
- 120 g sugar
- 1 egg
- A pinch of salt (about what you can take with 3 fingers)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 packet of baking powder

Ingredients for caramel:
- 200 g sugar
- 50 ml water
- 50 g margarine
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, but will give a special flavor)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- A pinch of salt

Preparing the tart:

1. Preparing the dough:
Start by combining the flour with the margarine or lard in a large bowl. Use your fingertips to rub the ingredients together until the mixture becomes crumbly, similar to snow.

2. Adding wet ingredients:
Add the sugar, egg, a pinch of salt, vanilla sugar, and baking powder. Mix well, but be careful not to over-knead the dough. The heat from your hands will soften the dough, and if you add too much flour, the tart will become dense and hard to digest.

3. Chilling the dough:
Form a ball from the dough, wrap it in plastic wrap, and place it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This step is essential for achieving a crisp and manageable crust.

4. Preparing the caramel:
In a saucepan, add the sugar and water. Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely. Once the sugar starts boiling, do not stir anymore, but let it boil until it turns golden. Be careful not to let it become too dark, or it will taste bitter. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the margarine, cinnamon, vanilla sugar, and a pinch of salt. Mix well until combined.

5. Assembling the tart:
Remove the dough from the refrigerator and divide it into two parts: one larger for the base of the tart and one smaller for the lattice. On a floured surface, roll out the larger dough into a circle and use it to line a tart pan with a removable bottom.

6. Adding the apples:
Peel the apples and slice them thinly. Arrange the apple slices evenly over the dough in the pan, arranging them nicely for a pleasing appearance.

7. Adding the lattice:
Roll out the remaining dough and cut it into strips to form a lattice over the apples. You can create a classic cross pattern or experiment with more creative shapes.

8. Finalizing and baking:
Pour the caramel syrup over the entire tart, ensuring to cover the apples evenly. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius and place the tart inside. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until the crust is golden and crisp.

9. Cooling and serving:
After baking, let the tart cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then carefully remove it and serve warm or at room temperature. It is delicious alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream!

Useful tips:
- You can use different varieties of apples to vary the flavor. Tart apples, like Granny Smith, add a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the caramel.
- If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can add a bit of nutmeg or ginger to the caramel mixture.
- The tart can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, but it is best enjoyed fresh.

Nutritional benefits:
This tart contains a considerable amount of apples, which are rich in fiber and vitamins. Additionally, the caramel adds a touch of energy, but it's best to enjoy it in moderation, especially if you are mindful of your caloric intake.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use another type of sugar for the caramel?
Yes, you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor and darker color.

2. What can I use instead of margarine?
Butter provides a better taste, but you can also use coconut oil for a vegan option.

3. How can I enhance the flavor of the tart?
Add some chopped nuts, such as hazelnuts or walnuts, over the apples before adding the lattice.

Explore this recipe and let yourself be carried away by the flavors and textures it offers. Whether you prepare it as a special dessert for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, the caramel apple tart will always bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!