French Apple Tart

This Easy French Apple Tart, also known as Tarte Fine aux Pommes, is the perfect dessert for any occasion. With its crisp, flaky puff pastry and tender apples delicately arranged on top, it’s both elegant and easy to make. The rich, buttery flavor pairs beautifully with a dusting of icing sugar and a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an irresistible treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This tart combines the richness of buttery puff pastry with the natural sweetness and tenderness of apples. With just a few ingredients, it’s a simple yet impressive dessert that comes together in under an hour. The golden edges of the pastry and the soft, perfectly caramelized apples make each bite a delight. Whether you’re serving it for a dinner party or a casual dessert, this Easy French Apple Tart is sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 1 square sheet butter puff pastry (25cm / 10″ square), barely thawed

• 5 tsp caster sugar (or superfine sugar, or substitute with regular granulated sugar)

• 2 large gala apples (or 3 medium apples), peeled, halved, cored, and sliced 0.5 cm / 0.2″ thick

• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

For Serving:

• Icing sugar / powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

• Vanilla ice cream (not optional!)

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

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Place a baking tray in the oven and preheat to 210°C / 375°F (190°C fan-forced).

2. Prepare the puff pastry base: Lay a sheet of baking paper (parchment paper) on the counter. Sprinkle 3 teaspoons of sugar evenly on the paper in the shape of the puff pastry sheet.

3. Assemble the tart: Place the puff pastry on top of the sugar. Fold the edges of the pastry inwards to create a 1 cm / 0.4″ edge.

4. Arrange the apples: Arrange the apple slices in 3 rows, slightly overlapping each other.

5. Butter and sugar: Brush the apples and the edges of the pastry with melted butter. Sprinkle the remaining sugar evenly over the apples and the edges of the pastry.

6. Bake: Carefully transfer the tart, still on the baking paper, to the hot baking tray. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown.

7. Serve: Cut the tart into 6 slices. Dust with icing sugar and serve warm with vanilla ice cream.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4–6 people

• Prep Time: 12 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 42 minutes

Variations

• Apple Variety: Use any apple variety you like! For a tart flavor, use Granny Smith apples; for extra sweetness, try Fuji apples; or for a balance, Pink Lady apples work great.

• Cinnamon Addition: For extra flavor, mix 1/8 tsp cinnamon with 2 teaspoons of sugar, then sprinkle it over the apples before baking.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free puff pastry for a gluten-free option.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to warm the tart and crisp up the pastry.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of pastry for this tart?

While puff pastry is the best choice for its flakiness and buttery texture, you could also use a shortcrust pastry for a more firm base.

2. Can I make this tart ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tart ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, just reheat in the oven to crisp up the pastry.

3. How do I prevent the tart from getting soggy?

To prevent the pastry from becoming soggy, make sure to bake it on a preheated baking tray, which helps it cook evenly and crisply.

4. Can I freeze this tart?

It’s best served fresh, but you can freeze the unbaked tart for up to 1 month. Just bake it directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

5. Can I add other toppings to this tart?

Yes! You can top the tart with whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or even some chopped nuts like almonds or pecans for extra crunch.

6. How do I know when the tart is done?

The tart is done when the pastry is golden and crispy, and the apples are tender. You should also see some caramelization on the edges of the apples.

7. Can I use pre-sliced apples?

You can use pre-sliced apples, but fresh slices will give you the best texture and flavor. Just be sure to slice them thinly to ensure they cook properly.

8. How can I make this tart a bit sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter tart, you can sprinkle extra sugar on top of the apples before baking or add a little drizzle of honey after baking.

9. Can I serve this tart cold?

While this tart is delicious served warm, it can also be enjoyed at room temperature, especially if you prefer it as a light dessert after a meal.

10. Can I use a different type of sugar for this tart?

Yes, you can substitute caster sugar with granulated sugar, but caster sugar will dissolve more easily and give you a smoother finish on top of the apples.

Conclusion

This Easy French Apple Tart is an elegant yet simple dessert that combines the richness of buttery puff pastry with tender apples. The light dusting of icing sugar and the addition of vanilla ice cream take this dessert to the next level. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a delicious dessert, this tart is a crowd-pleaser that’s quick and easy to make!