Name: French Apple Tart
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: French
Ingredients: 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed; 4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Golden Delicious), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 1/4 cup apricot jam; 1 teaspoon water; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Optional: powdered sugar, for dusting

A delicate and elegant French dessert, the French Apple Tart combines the flavors of sweet, tender apples with a buttery, flaky puff pastry crust. Topped with a subtle apricot glaze, it’s a light and refined treat that is perfect for showcasing fresh apples. This simple yet impressive tart is a delightful way to indulge in a timeless classic.

Ingredients

1 sheet puff pastry, thawed

4 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp or Golden Delicious), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced

2 tablespoons granulated sugar

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

1/4 cup apricot jam

1 teaspoon water

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Optional: powdered sugar, for dusting

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to smooth the edges and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet.

Arrange the apple slices in overlapping rows over the puff pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.

In a small bowl, mix the sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle evenly over the apples.

Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the apples.

Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the pastry is golden brown and the apples are tender.

While the tart bakes, combine apricot jam and water in a small saucepan. Heat over low heat, stirring until smooth.

Brush the warm apricot jam over the tart immediately after removing it from the oven.

Let the tart cool for 10–15 minutes. Drizzle with lemon juice and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 6 servings

Variations

While I love the simplicity of the original recipe, there are plenty of ways to make this tart your own. I can easily swap the apples for pears or a combination of apples and berries for a different flavor profile. For a more decadent touch, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side is always a great option. You could also experiment with different glazes – a light honey or orange glaze could bring a nice twist to the flavor.

Storage/Reheating

I recommend storing the French Apple Tart in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If I want to keep it longer, I’ll refrigerate it for up to 4 days. To reheat, I place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through. The tart is best enjoyed within the first couple of days, but I can always count on it still being delicious after a quick reheat.

FAQs

Can I make the French Apple Tart ahead of time?

Yes, I can prepare the tart a day in advance. After baking, I’ll let it cool completely, then cover it and store it in the fridge. Before serving, I’ll let it come to room temperature or reheat it for a few minutes in the oven.

What kind of apples are best for this tart?

I prefer using sweet-tart apples like Honeycrisp or Golden Delicious. They hold their shape well during baking and offer a lovely balance of flavor. However, I could also try using Granny Smith apples if I want a more tart flavor.

Can I use a different jam for the glaze?

Absolutely! While apricot jam is classic, I could easily swap it for another fruit jam like peach, apple, or even raspberry for a different flavor profile.

Is it possible to make this tart gluten-free?

Yes, I can use a gluten-free puff pastry to make this tart gluten-free. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so it’s a simple swap.

Can I freeze the French Apple Tart?

Yes, I can freeze the unbaked tart for up to a month. After assembling it on the baking sheet, I’ll wrap it in plastic wrap and foil, then store it in the freezer. When I’m ready to bake it, I’ll bake it from frozen, adding an extra 5–10 minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

This French Apple Tart is the perfect dessert when I’m craving something light and sophisticated yet easy to make. It’s a delightful treat for any occasion, whether I’m hosting a dinner party or enjoying a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea. The crisp puff pastry, tender apples, and sweet apricot glaze combine to create a dessert that is as beautiful as it is delicious.

Recipe:

French Apple Tart

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delicate and elegant French dessert, the French Apple Tart combines sweet, tender apples with a buttery puff pastry crust and a subtle apricot glaze.