Easy Apple Tart Recipe

If you’ve been searching for a dessert that combines simplicity, elegance, and that perfect balance of sweet and tart, then look no further. This Easy Apple Tart Recipe is an absolute gem, turning humble ingredients into a stunning centerpiece for any gathering or a cozy night in. With flaky puff pastry, tender cinnamon-spiced apples, and a luscious apricot glaze, it’s the kind of dessert that makes your kitchen smell like heaven and your taste buds sing with joy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is the first step toward making this delightful dish come to life. This recipe uses straightforward, easy-to-find ingredients that each contribute to the final dish’s irresistible flavor, flaky texture, and inviting color.

• Puff pastry sheet, thawed overnight: The buttery, flaky base that creates a crisp and golden crust every time.
• Apricot jam, divided: Adds a sweet, glossy finish that enhances fruit flavor while keeping the tart beautifully moist.
• Granulated sugar, divided: Provides a subtle sweetness and a slight crunchy topping on the crust.
• Brown sugar: Brings deep caramel notes that balance perfectly with the tartness of the apples.
• Flour: Helps to thicken the apple filling so it’s just the right consistency.
• Cinnamon: Infuses warm spice that complements the apples and adds depth.
• Lemon juice: Brightens the apples and prevents browning.
• Pinch Kosher salt: Enhances and balances all the sweet flavors.
• Granny Smith apples, cored and sliced: Their tart crispness is perfect for baking and holds shape beautifully.
• Egg, beaten: Used to brush the crust for a gorgeous golden-brown finish.
• Cold butter, cubed: Dotted over the apples for rich flavor and a beautiful melt-in-your-mouth texture.
• Vanilla ice cream, for serving: The perfect creamy contrast that takes this tart from great to unforgettable.

How to Make Easy Apple Tart Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Apricot Jam

Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring it’s fully preheated for a perfectly cooked tart. Warm the apricot jam gently in a saucepan or microwave until it’s loose and spreadable—this is the secret glossy glaze that will seal in juicy flavor and add that irresistible shine.

Step 2: Mix the Apple Filling

In a large bowl, combine the sugars, flour, cinnamon, lemon juice, and salt. This blend creates the aromatic and flavorful coating that transforms simple apple slices into a spiced delight. Toss the apple slices thoroughly into this mixture until they’re evenly coated, ensuring every bite bursts with balanced sweetness and spice.

Step 3: Roll Out the Puff Pastry

Lightly flour your countertop and gently roll out your thawed puff pastry into a slightly larger rectangle, about 9 by 13.5 inches. This gives you enough room for those lovely apple slices and a crust edge to fold over, locking in all the filling’s goodness as it bakes.

Step 4: Build Your Tart

Transfer the puff pastry to a parchment-lined baking sheet and score the crust about an inch from the edge, then prick the inside with a fork—this prevents puffing in the middle. Spread half a cup of the warmed apricot jam evenly over the pastry, then layer your apple mixture in a single overlapping pattern. Fold the edges over the apples for a rustic look and brush the crust with beaten egg before sprinkling sugar on top to add a beautiful shimmer and crunch.

Step 5: Add Butter and Bake

Scatter cold butter cubes across the apples—these little pockets of richness melt down to create an indulgent, tender filling. Bake your tart for 30 to 35 minutes until the crust turns a deep golden brown and the apples soften just right without becoming mushy.

Step 6: Final Glaze and Serve

Warm the remaining apricot jam until glossy and brush it over the hot tart as soon as it comes out of the oven. This step not only adds shine but seals in moisture. After letting it cool for a few minutes, slice it up and serve wrapped in warmth with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.

How to Serve Easy Apple Tart Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped walnuts or a dusting of powdered sugar can add texture and visual appeal. For an extra touch, a few fresh mint leaves or a drizzle of caramel sauce can elevate the presentation even further.

Side Dishes

This tart pairs wonderfully with creamy vanilla ice cream—classic and comforting. For a refreshing contrast, serve alongside a tangy whipped cream or even a small bowl of tangy Greek yogurt sweetened with a drizzle of honey.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this Easy Apple Tart Recipe on a rustic wooden board for a charming farmhouse vibe. For gatherings, cut it into mini tarts using muffin tins beforehand. You can also add a sprinkle of toasted coconut or chopped pecans on top right after glazing for an inviting crunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, cover the tart with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and enjoy those leftover slices chilled or at room temperature.

Freezing

This apple tart freezes beautifully if you want to prepare it ahead. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It will keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

Reheating

For the best results, warm the tart in a 350-degree oven for about 10 minutes to bring back its crispiness and freshness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the crust soggy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of apples?

Absolutely! Granny Smith apples are ideal because of their tartness and firmness, but you can also use Honeycrisp or Braeburn for a sweeter or more balanced flavor. Just make sure to choose varieties that hold their shape well when baked.

Do I have to use puff pastry?

Puff pastry is key to this recipe’s flaky texture and beautiful rise, but if you don’t have it on hand, a pie crust can work as a substitute, just keep in mind the texture will be different.

Is it necessary to brush with egg wash?

Brushing the crust with beaten egg before baking creates that gorgeous golden color and shine. If you prefer to avoid eggs, you can brush with milk or cream, though the color may be a bit paler.

Can this tart be made gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free puff pastry available at specialty stores or make a gluten-free crust from scratch. Ensure all other ingredients, like flour used in the filling, are substituted with gluten-free versions.

How long can I keep the tart before serving?

This tart is best enjoyed the day it’s baked, but if you need to make it ahead, refrigerate it and reheat before serving. The flavors deepen after resting, making it just as delicious the next day.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Easy Apple Tart Recipe as I am to share it with you. It’s a beautifully simple dessert that celebrates the classic flavors of fall and brings a touch of rustic elegance to your table. Whether for a casual snack or a special occasion, I promise this tart will quickly become a favorite you’ll love making again and again.

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