Lemon and apple tart

Lemon and Apple Tart – a Delight in Every Slice!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Servings: 8

The lemon and apple tart is a classic dessert that combines the fresh, slightly tangy flavors of lemon with the natural sweetness of apples. This recipe is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a visual delight, making it perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to gatherings with friends. Let’s embark on the journey of making this delicious tart!

Ingredients

For the crust:
- 250 g all-purpose flour (ideal for pastry)
- 125 g butter (or margarine for a lighter version)
- 1 egg
- A pinch of salt
- 2-3 tablespoons of cold water (if needed)

For the filling:
- 300 g sour cream (for a rich taste, use full-fat sour cream)
- 3 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons flour (to thicken the filling)
- 150 g sugar (adjustable to your taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for added flavor)
- Zest of 1 lemon (fresh for an intense flavor)
- 5 large apples (a sweet-tart variety is ideal)

A Brief History

Tarts are desserts with roots in pastry traditions around the world. Over time, they have evolved into various forms and have been filled with all sorts of ingredients, from fresh fruits to sophisticated creams. The lemon and apple tart brings together these influences, offering a perfect balance between acidity and sweetness.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the crust

1. In a large bowl, sift the flour and add the cubed butter. Using your fingertips, rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles fine crumbs. This essential technique helps achieve a flaky crust.

2. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and add the egg and a pinch of salt. Begin mixing the ingredients with a fork.

3. Gradually add 2-3 tablespoons of cold water until the dough comes together. Avoid adding too much water, as you want the dough to remain flaky.

4. Once the dough is homogeneous, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This step is crucial for allowing the butter to firm up, which will help achieve a perfect crust.

2. Preparing the filling

1. In a separate bowl, combine the sour cream, egg yolks, flour, sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon zest. Mix well until you achieve a smooth and creamy mixture. This will become the delicious base of the tart.

3. Assembling the tart

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Remove the dough from the refrigerator and, on a floured surface, roll it out into a thin sheet large enough to cover a tart pan (about 26 cm). Make sure to roll the dough evenly without making it too thin.

3. Transfer the dough to the tart pan, ensuring that the edges are covered as well. Use a fork to prick the bottom of the dough, which will help prevent bubbles from forming during baking.

4. Pour the sour cream filling over the dough, making sure it spreads evenly.

4. Preparing the apples

1. Peel the apples and remove the cores, keeping them whole. Slice them thinly, but not so thin that they break.

2. Arrange the apple slices overlapping on top of the filling, arranging them nicely for an attractive appearance.

5. Baking

1. Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 45 minutes, or until the tart is golden and the filling is set.

2. Once baked, allow the tart to cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes before removing it. This step will help stabilize the tart and make slicing easier.

Chef's Tip

For an extra burst of flavor, you can sprinkle a little sugar over the apples before placing the tart in the oven. This will create a slightly caramelized crust, adding a crunchy texture and deeper flavor.

Serving

This lemon and apple tart is delicious both warm and cold. You can serve it plain or with a dollop of whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or even a drizzle of caramel sauce. A cup of tea or a refreshing lemonade pairs wonderfully with this dessert.

Possible Variations

If you want to experiment, you can substitute the apples with other fruits, such as pears or peaches, or add a dash of cinnamon for a unique flavor. Additionally, for a healthier version, you can use natural sweeteners instead of sugar.

Nutritional Benefits

This tart contains basic ingredients that provide essential nutrients. Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamin C, while sour cream adds calcium and protein. Although it is a dessert, when consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use whole wheat flour for the crust?
Yes, but keep in mind that the texture and taste will be different. Whole wheat flour will add more nutrients, but you may need to add more water to achieve a smooth dough.

2. How can I tell when the tart is done?
The tart is done when the filling is firm to the touch and the edges turn golden. A simple check is to insert a knife in the center – if it comes out clean, the tart is baked.

3. How can I store the tart?
You can keep the tart covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It’s best to consume it sooner to maintain the freshness of the apples and the texture of the crust.

The lemon and apple tart is not just a simple dessert but also an opportunity to bring joy to your loved ones. With each slice, you'll savor not only a delicious taste but also pleasant memories of moments spent together. So, let’s put on our aprons and enjoy this delightful recipe!