Tarte Tatin

Tarte Tatin with Apples - A Classic Culinary Delight

Tarte Tatin is an elegant yet simple recipe that has won the hearts of many over the years. This tart with caramelized apples and a delicious crust is perfect for both festive meals and weekend snacks. Its origins are shrouded in mystery, but it is known to have been created from a happy accident when two sisters decided to reverse the order of the ingredients while preparing a tart. The result? A perfect combination of flavors and textures, blending the sweetness of apples with the crunchiness of the dough.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 35-45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients for the dough:
- 250 g of good quality flour
- 125 g of butter, at room temperature
- 1 egg yolk
- 6 tablespoons of cold water or milk
- A pinch of salt

Ingredients for the filling:
- 7 apples (sour varieties like Granny Smith or Golden are ideal)
- 125 g of butter
- 125 g of sugar
- 2 sachets of vanilla sugar

Step by step: Preparing the Tarte Tatin

1. Preparing the dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour with the salt. Add the butter cut into cubes and, using a mixer or grater, incorporate it into the flour until the mixture resembles fine sand. Gradually add the egg yolk and water or milk, mixing until you obtain a smooth dough. If the dough is too tough, feel free to add a little more water or milk. Shape the dough into a ball, wrap it in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 30 minutes.

2. Preparing the filling
Meanwhile, peel the apples and remove the core, cutting them into thick slices. This step is essential, as thicker slices will remain firm during baking. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the sugar. Stir constantly until the sugar caramelizes. Be careful, as the caramel can burn quickly. A light golden color is ideal. If the caramel does not reach the desired color, do not worry; the tart will still be delicious.

3. Assembling the tart
When the caramel is ready, pour it into a 28 cm diameter baking dish. Arrange the apple slices in the dish, overlapping them, making sure to fill all the gaps. You can sprinkle a sachet of vanilla sugar over the apples for extra flavor. Bake the apples in the oven for 15 minutes at 180°C. This step will help the apples soften slightly and absorb the caramel flavor.

4. Adding the dough
After the apples are baked, remove the dish from the oven. Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface so that it is larger than the diameter of the dish. Cover the apples with the dough, ensuring the edges are folded inward. This will create a beautiful border.

5. Final baking
Put the tart back in the oven and bake for 35-45 minutes, until the dough is golden and crispy. Do not check the tart with a toothpick, as this is not an ordinary cake. Instead, observe the color of the dough.

6. Cooling and serving
When the tart is ready, let it cool slightly. Gently shake the dish to ensure the tart releases. Then, place a large plate over the dish and carefully flip it. You can serve the tart warm, with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a contrast of temperatures and textures.

Tips and tricks for a perfect result
- Choose fresh, seasonal apples for the best flavor. Sour apples provide an excellent contrast to the sweetness of the caramel.
- If you want to add an interesting note, you can sprinkle a little cinnamon over the apples before baking.
- Tarte Tatin can be served warm or cold. It is delicious alongside a cup of fruit tea or a dry white wine.
- Make sure the dough is not too wet, as this can make the tart soggy at the bottom.

Nutritional information
A serving of Tarte Tatin contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the amount of sugar and butter used. Apples are an excellent source of fiber and vitamins, while butter provides healthy fats in the diet, but moderation is essential.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use other fruits?
Yes, you can replace the apples with pears or peaches, adjusting the baking time according to the chosen fruits.
- How can I store the tart?
Tarte Tatin keeps well at room temperature for 1-2 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it, but the flavor will change slightly.
- Is it possible to make the tart without sugar?
You can use alternative sweeteners, but the texture and final taste may differ.

I conclude with a personal note: this Tarte Tatin has become a family favorite, often served at weekend gatherings. It is simple to prepare and offers great satisfaction when admired and enjoyed by all loved ones. So head to the kitchen and let the aroma of caramelized apples carry you away – you won't regret it!