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Classic French Apple Tart (Tarte aux Pommes)

A close-up, appetizing slice of amazing apple tart featuring caramelized apple slices on a moist cake base, served on a white plate.

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Make a beautiful and delicious French Apple Tart using simple steps. This recipe features a buttery, flaky crust and thinly sliced apples arranged for an elegant presentation, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

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  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
  • 4 tablespoons ice water
  • 5 medium baking apples (like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons apricot jam or apple jelly, warmed

Instructions

  1. Prepare the crust: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry blender or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs with some pea-sized pieces of butter remaining.
  2. Add the ice water one tablespoon at a time, mixing until the dough just comes together. Do not overmix. Form the dough into a disk, wrap it in plastic wrap, and chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
  3. While the dough chills, prepare the apples: In a medium bowl, gently toss the thinly sliced apples with the granulated sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Set aside.
  4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly flour a work surface. Roll out the chilled dough into a rough 12-inch circle. Carefully transfer the dough to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Arrange the apple slices over the dough, leaving a 1 1/2-inch border around the edge. You can overlap them in concentric circles for a classic look. Fold the dough border up and over the edge of the apples to create a rustic rim.
  6. Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the apples are tender.
  7. While the tart is still warm, gently brush the warmed apricot jam or jelly over the apples for shine and flavor.
  8. Let the apple tart cool slightly on the baking sheet before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • For a crisp bottom crust, place the baking sheet in the oven while it preheats.
  • Use firm apples that hold their shape well during baking to prevent a soggy tart.
  • If you prefer a richer flavor, substitute 1 tablespoon of the cold water with 1 tablespoon of cold vodka when making the dough.
  • Serve this classic apple tart warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a simple dessert experience.

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