Tender apple tart

Apple Tart: A Classic, Tender, and Delicious Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 40-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 8-10 servings

Apple tart is a dessert that evokes sunny autumn days when apples are in full season and their aroma delights our senses. This simple yet delicious recipe combines a tender crust with a sweet and juicy apple filling, offering a perfect treat for both small occasions and festive meals. Whether served alongside a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of cream, this apple tart is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients for the crust:
- 200 g lard (or butter for a richer flavor)
- 4 tablespoons of brown sugar
- 2 eggs (at room temperature)
- A pinch of salt
- 1 packet of rum-flavored sugar (for a special taste)
- A pinch of baking soda
- 150 ml sweet milk (you can use plant-based milk for a vegan option)
- 500 g all-purpose flour (you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a more rustic flavor)

Ingredients for the filling:
- 10 large apples (choose aromatic varieties like Granny Smith or Golden)
- 1 lemon (the juice will prevent the apples from browning and add a touch of freshness)
- 4 tablespoons of sugar (adjust the amount depending on the sweetness of the apples)
- 1 packet of rum-flavored sugar
- 3 tablespoons of semolina (this will help absorb the juice released by the apples)
- 6 tablespoons of white breadcrumbs (for a pleasant texture)
- Ground cinnamon (to taste)
- Powdered sugar for decoration (optional, but recommended for an attractive appearance)

Here are the steps to prepare this delicious apple tart:

1. Preparing the crust. In a large bowl, mix the lard with a pinch of salt and the 4 tablespoons of brown sugar. Use a spatula or whisk to incorporate the ingredients well. Add the eggs, continuing to mix until the mixture is smooth.

2. Incorporating the liquid ingredients and flour. Add the rum sugar, baking soda, and sweet milk. Mix well. Then, add the flour in two batches. At first, use the whisk to mix, and then, when the mixture becomes denser, knead with your hands. It’s important for the dough to be soft but not sticky. If needed, you can add a little extra flour.

3. Chilling the dough. Once the dough is ready, wrap it in plastic wrap and refrigerate for about 30 minutes, during which time you can prepare the filling.

4. Preparing the apple filling. Wash the apples, peel and core them, then grate them using a large grater. Place them in a bowl, sprinkle with the 4 tablespoons of sugar and the lemon juice. Let them sit for a few minutes to release their juice.

5. Enriching the filling. Once the apples have released enough juice, add the semolina, breadcrumbs, and rum sugar. Gently mix to evenly distribute the ingredients. The semolina and breadcrumbs will bind the mixture, absorbing the juice released by the apples and retaining their sweetness.

6. Assembling the tart. Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Prepare a 25 x 35 cm baking dish by lining it with parchment paper. Remove the dough from the fridge and divide it into two. Roll out the first piece of dough, not too thick, and prick it all over with a fork. Transfer the sheet to the baking dish, leaving a margin of about 2 cm.

7. Adding the filling. Pour the apple filling over the dough, leveling it evenly. Sprinkle ground cinnamon to taste to enhance the aroma.

8. Dough decorations. From the remaining dough, roll out another sheet and cut thin strips to create a lattice over the filling. This will not only look wonderful but will also allow steam to escape during baking.

9. Baking the tart. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake the tart for 40-50 minutes, or until it turns golden and smells delicious. Check occasionally, as every oven may bake differently.

10. Cooling and serving. Once out of the oven, let the tart cool slightly before transferring it to a wire rack. Sprinkle powdered sugar on top after it has completely cooled to avoid melting. Slice and serve with delight!

Serving suggestions:
For an extra touch of elegance, serve the tart with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream. You can also add almond flakes on top of the dough before baking for a crunchy texture and unique flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples? Absolutely! You can experiment with pears, apricots, or peaches. Just make sure to adjust the sugar amount based on the sweetness of the chosen fruits.

2. How can I store the apple tart? It is recommended to keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness. It can last for 3-4 days.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans? Yes! You can replace the lard with vegan margarine and the eggs with banana puree or applesauce.

Nutritional benefits:
This apple tart is rich in fiber due to the fruit, and apples contain vitamins A and C, which support the immune system. The semolina and breadcrumbs add complex carbohydrates, providing a sustainable source of energy.

In conclusion, this apple tart is not just a delicious dessert but also a perfect way to enjoy seasonal fruits. By experimenting with various flavors and ingredients, you can adapt the recipe to your tastes, making each serving a unique experience. So, happy cooking and savoring!