Vanilla cream tart

Vanilla custard tart with caramelized apples

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12

Introduction

Vanilla custard tart with caramelized apples is an exquisite dessert, perfect for any special occasion or simply to indulge at the weekend. This recipe brings together the crisp texture of the crust, the delicacy of the vanilla cream and the fresh flavors of the apples for an unforgettable culinary experience. The origins of this recipe are lost in the mists of time, but the idea of combining fruit with fine cream is a symbol of traditional gastronomy, appreciated and reinterpreted for generations.

Ingredients

*For the dough
- 350 g flour
- 100 g sugar
- 250 g cold butter, diced
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon cold water
- a pinch of salt

*For the cream:*
- 500 ml milk
- 200 ml liquid cream
- 8 yolks
- 3 sachets vanilla sugar
- 8 tablespoons sugar
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch

*For decoration:*
- 6 apples
- 1 lemon, juice
- 300 ml water
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Preparation steps

1. Preparing the dough

Start by preparing the dough. In a large bowl, combine the flour, sugar and salt. Add the diced cold butter and rub it in with your fingers until the mixture becomes grainy, similar to sand. This technique helps to make a soft dough.

Add the egg and cold water, mixing gently until the dough comes together. Shape into a ball, wrap in plastic wrap and chill for an hour. This step is essential to allow the butter to harden, which will contribute to the final texture of the tart.

2. Preparing the caramelized apples

While the dough is cooling, you can prepare the apples. Wash the apples, remove the cores and cut them into very thin slices. Bring the water to the boil in a saucepan, add the sugar and bring to the boil. Turn off the heat and add the lemon juice and cinnamon, then carefully place the apple slices in the hot syrup. Leave to infuse for 2-3 minutes, then remove and drain. This will intensify the flavor of the apples and make them more tender.

3. Rolling out the dough

Preheat the oven to 180°C. Grease a 26-28 cm (26-28 cm) diameter tart tin with butter and coat with flour. Remove the dough from the fridge and spread it evenly over the bottom and sides of the tin. Make sure the dough is well pressed and evenly to avoid cracks during baking. Refrigerate again for a few minutes.

4. Making vanilla custard

In another bowl, combine the yolks with the sugar, flour and cornstarch. Mix well until smooth. In a separate saucepan, bring the milk and cream to the boiling point. When the mixture comes to a boil, gradually pour it over the yolk mixture, stirring quickly to prevent the eggs from curdling. Then put the mixture back over a low heat and cook, stirring constantly, until thickened. This technique is essential for a smooth, velvety custard.

5. Assembling the tart

Once the cream has thickened, pour it evenly over the cooled tart dough. Then arrange the apple slices on top of the custard, forming a creative pattern, such as a flower or spirals. This step not only improves the aesthetics but also the flavor of the dessert.

6. Baking the tart

Place the tart in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Then reduce the temperature to 160°C and continue baking for another 25 minutes. The tart is ready when the custard is set and slightly golden on the surface. Leave to cool completely before removing from the tray.

Serving and variations

Once the tart has cooled, you can serve it plain or with a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top. A caramel sauce or vanilla ice cream alongside will also add extra flavor.

For a personal touch, try adding a few chopped walnuts or almonds over the apples before baking. These will not only add a nice textural contrast, but also a great flavor.

Calories and nutritional benefits

Each serving of vanilla custard tart with caramelized apples contains about 350-400 calories, depending on serving size and ingredients used. This is a good source of calcium thanks to the milk and eggs, and the apples provide significant fiber and vitamins.

FAQs

1. Can the tart be made a few days in advance?
Yes, the tart can be made the day before. Be sure to keep it in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness.

2. Can I use fruit other than apples?
Absolutely! You can experiment with pears, peaches or even berries to vary the recipe.

3. What are the best drinks to accompany this tart?
A cup of fruit tea or fresh lemonade goes perfectly with the tart. A demisec white wine could also add an elegant touch.

Vanilla custard tart with caramelized apples is more than just a dessert; it's a delicious story you can share with your loved ones. Every bite will bring joy and evoke beautiful memories, turning an ordinary meal into a special occasion. Enjoy cooking and savor every moment!