Caramelized apple tart with whipped cream

Caramelized Apple Tart with Whipped Cream – A Delicacy for the Soul

When it comes to desserts that bring a sprinkle of joy into our lives, caramelized apple tart is undoubtedly a favorite. This recipe is not just a simple combination of ingredients, but a true intertwining of flavors and textures that invites you to savor every bite. Whether you're preparing it for a gathering with friends or a family dinner, this dessert will surely become the star of the table. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 80 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients

For the caramel:
- 250 g granulated sugar
- 70 g butter (to add to the apples)

For the apple filling:
- 1.5 kg apples (choose sweet and fragrant varieties like Golden or Fuji apples)
- 1-2 tablespoons powdered sugar (optional)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (to enhance the flavor)

For the sponge cake base:
- 5 eggs
- 125 g granulated sugar
- 125 g all-purpose flour
- 1 pinch of salt
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar

For decoration:
- 200 g heavy cream
- 1-2 tablespoons powdered sugar (to sweeten the cream)

A Brief History of the Recipe

Apple tart is a classic dessert with origins in the culinary traditions of many cultures. It often symbolizes the harvest season, serving as a delicious way to utilize autumn fruits. The apple harvest brings with it pleasant and warm memories, and caramelization adds a touch of elegance and refinement.

Step by step: Preparing the Caramelized Apple Tart

1. Preparing the caramel

Start by caramelizing the sugar. In a saucepan with a diameter of 25 cm, add 250 g of granulated sugar. Place the saucepan over low heat and let it melt. It’s important to be patient and not stir the sugar until it starts to melt. Once the sugar has taken on a brown hue, remove it from the heat and quickly coat the bottom and sides of the saucepan with the caramel syrup. Let it cool until the caramel hardens and becomes crunchy.

2. Preparing the apples

Meanwhile, wash the apples well, peel them, and cut them into thicker slices. Arrange the apple slices in the pan with the caramelized sugar, placing them in circles. Add a few pieces of butter between layers and sprinkle a little cinnamon for extra flavor. This step not only adds taste but also helps the apples caramelize perfectly during baking.

3. Baking the apples

Place the pan in the preheated oven at 180°C and bake for about 35-40 minutes, until the apples become soft and start to caramelize. This step is essential for achieving a delicious texture.

4. Preparing the sponge cake base

While the apples are baking, let's prepare the sponge cake base. Separate the eggs: place the egg whites in one bowl and the yolks in another. Beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until you achieve a stiff foam. Gradually add 125 g of granulated sugar, continuously mixing to obtain a glossy meringue. Incorporate the vanilla sugar.

Add the yolks, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Sift the flour and fold it in with a spatula, being careful not to deflate the meringue.

5. Combining the ingredients

After the apples have softened, remove the pan from the oven and quickly pour the sponge cake mixture over the caramelized apples. Level it with a spatula to achieve an even surface.

6. Baking the tart

Return the pan to the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden and pulls away from the edges. Once baked, remove the tart from the oven and immediately invert it onto a serving plate. This step is important to keep the caramelization intact.

7. Preparing the whipped cream

Whip the heavy cream with a mixer until it becomes firm. Add 1-2 tablespoons of powdered sugar to sweeten it and mix a little at low speed.

8. Serving

Once the tart has cooled completely, decorate it with whipped cream and let it chill in the fridge for a few hours. This step will allow the flavors to meld together.

Useful Tips

- Choose sweet and fragrant apples to achieve a pleasant contrast with the caramel.
- Do not let the sugar burn during caramelization, as it will give a bitter taste.
- You can add nuts or toasted almonds to the apple filling for extra crunch.
- If you prefer a less sweet tart, reduce the amount of sugar in the sponge cake base.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits?
Of course! You can experiment with pears, peaches, or even pineapple, adjusting the baking time based on the fruits chosen.

2. How can I store the tart?
The tart stores well in the fridge, covered, for 2-3 days. The flavor improves as the flavors develop.

3. What drinks pair well with this tart?
A sweet wine or a fragrant apple tea would perfectly complement this dessert. Additionally, a cappuccino or a latte can be a wonderful choice!

Nutritional Benefits

This tart, with its apples rich in fiber and antioxidants, offers not only a wonderful taste but also health benefits. Apples contribute to digestive health, and cinnamon has antioxidant effects. However, it is wise to consume desserts in moderation, considering the sugar content.

Conclusion

The caramelized apple tart with whipped cream is more than just a dessert; it is a culinary experience that brings together family and friends. With every bite, you will feel the warmth and love you invested in its preparation. So, don’t hesitate! Put on your chef's apron and enjoy the magic of cooking! Enjoy your meal!