Caramel apple tart with vanilla cream

Caramel Apple Tart with Vanilla Cream

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 8

Welcome to the world of sweet delights! Today, I will guide you step by step in making a caramel apple tart with vanilla cream that will delight not only your taste buds but also the eyes of everyone who gets to enjoy it. This recipe, with its sweet-tart contrast and creamy texture, is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a family dinner or a gathering with friends.

A Bit of History
The tart is a classic dessert that has its origins in medieval cuisine. Over time, various variations have emerged, each bringing a touch of the culture of its respective region. Today, we will create a delicious version that combines caramelized apples with a smooth vanilla cream, all on a crispy puff pastry base.

Ingredients
For the crust:
- 1 sheet of puff pastry (partially thawed)
- 1 egg yolk
- 2 tablespoons milk

For the vanilla cream:
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 250 ml milk
- 2 egg yolks
- 100 g butter (at room temperature)
- seeds from one vanilla pod

For the caramelized apples:
- ~600 g apples (preferably a tart variety like Granny Smith, diced)
- 150 g sugar
- 100 g butter
- 200 ml heavy cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Crust
Start by preheating the oven to 180°C (350°F). Take the puff pastry sheet and cut a border of about 2 cm all around, leaving the center intact. This will help create a nice, crispy edge. Brush the entire sheet with a mixture of egg yolk and milk, then place strips of pastry around the edge to form a border. This will puff up during baking, creating a "frame" for the filling.

2. Bake the Crust
Prick the pastry sheet with a fork to prevent air bubbles from forming. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden and crispy. Let it cool to room temperature.

3. Prepare the Vanilla Cream
In a small saucepan, add the milk and vanilla seeds. Heat over low until the milk starts to boil, then remove from heat. In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks with the sugar until light and creamy. Add the cornstarch and mix well. Gradually pour the warm milk in a thin stream while constantly stirring to avoid curdling the egg yolks.

4. Thicken the Cream
Return the mixture to low heat and stir continuously. It’s essential not to let the cream boil, just to thicken. Once it reaches the desired consistency, add the room temperature butter and mix until melted. Allow the cream to cool.

5. Caramelize the Apples
In a skillet, add the sugar and let it caramelize until it becomes liquid and golden. Remove from heat and add the butter, stirring carefully. Then, add the heavy cream and stir again over low heat until well combined. Add the diced apples and gently mix. Cook until the apples soften slightly, but do not let them break apart.

6. Assemble the Tart
Once the crust has cooled, pour the vanilla cream evenly over it. Carefully distribute the caramelized apples on top. You can reserve a bit of the caramel to drizzle over when serving, adding an extra burst of flavor.

7. Serving Suggestions
The caramel apple tart with vanilla cream can be served chilled or at room temperature. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A cup of tea or a mug of coffee complements this tart perfectly, enhancing the sweet and creamy flavors.

Nutritional Benefits
Apples are rich in fiber and vitamins, making them excellent for digestion. The vanilla cream, while more decadent, provides calcium from the milk and butter, essential for bone health.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can experiment with pears or caramelized peaches, which pair excellently with the vanilla cream.
- How can I store the tart?
The tart keeps well in the refrigerator, covered with plastic wrap, for 2-3 days. It’s best enjoyed within this time frame to maintain freshness.
- Can it be frozen?
While puff pastry can be frozen, the assembled tart is not recommended for freezing, as the texture will be affected.

Tips and Variations
For an extra flavor boost, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the caramelized apples. If you want to make the vanilla cream even more special, you can add a drop of almond extract.

I hope this recipe for caramel apple tart with vanilla cream inspires you to venture into the kitchen. Remember to enjoy every step of the process and savor each slice! Bon appétit!