Salted Caramel Apple Tart Irresistible Fall Delight

Fall is here, and that means it’s time for delicious baked treats! Imagine biting into a warm salted caramel apple tart, with sweet apples and a crispy crust. In this post, I’ll show you how to make this tasty dessert, from the ingredients to the perfect caramel sauce. Let’s dive in and make your kitchen smell like autumn!

Ingredients

Main ingredients for the tart crust

To create the perfect tart crust, you will need:

– 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed

– 1/4 cup granulated sugar

– 1/4 teaspoon salt

– 1 large egg yolk

– 2 tablespoons ice-cold water

These ingredients are simple, yet they come together to form a flaky and tender crust. The chilled butter is key. It helps the crust stay light and crispy.

Ingredients for the apple filling

For the apple filling, gather these items:

– 4 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best), peeled, cored, and sliced thin

– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

– 1/2 cup packed brown sugar

– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

The apples bring sweetness and tartness. The lemon juice brightens the flavor. The brown sugar caramelizes during baking, and the cinnamon adds warmth.

Ingredients for the salted caramel sauce

For the salted caramel sauce, you will need:

– 1/4 cup heavy cream

– 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

– 1/4 teaspoon flaky sea salt

This sauce is rich and creamy. The heavy cream makes it luxurious. The vanilla and sea salt enhance the flavors, creating a perfect balance.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the tart crust

Start by mixing your dry ingredients. In a large bowl, combine 1 1/4 cups of flour, 1/4 cup of sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Next, add 1/2 cup of chilled, cubed butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until it looks like coarse crumbs. You want small butter pieces visible for a flaky crust.

Now, add 1 large egg yolk and 2 tablespoons of ice-cold water. Gently mix until the dough comes together. Avoid overworking the dough. Shape it into a flat disk, wrap it in plastic, and chill for at least 30 minutes.

Preparing the apple filling

While the dough chills, prepare your apples. Peel, core, and slice 4 medium apples. I like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for their tart flavor. In a bowl, toss the apple slices with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Let them sit for about 10 minutes. This helps the apples soften and release some moisture.

Assembling and baking the tart

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface into a circle, about 1/8 inch thick. Press it gently into a 9-inch tart pan. Trim any excess dough. Prick the bottom with a fork to prevent bubbling.

To blind bake, line the crust with parchment paper and fill it with pie weights or dried beans. Bake for 15 minutes, then remove the weights and parchment. Bake for another 10 minutes until golden brown.

Now, for the caramel sauce, combine 1/2 cup of brown sugar and 1/4 cup of heavy cream in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring until thickened, about 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract and a pinch of flaky sea salt.

Next, layer the apple slices in the baked crust, overlapping them slightly. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the apples. Return the tart to the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the apples are tender.

Let the tart cool for a few minutes after baking. Drizzle the rest of the caramel sauce on top before serving. Enjoy the warm slices with a sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a scoop of ice cream!

Tips & Tricks

Best apple varieties for the tart

The best apples for your tart are Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. Granny Smith apples add a tart flavor that balances the sweetness of caramel. Honeycrisp apples offer a sweet crunch that holds up well during baking. You can mix both for added depth. Other great options include Fuji and Braeburn if you want more sweetness.

How to achieve the perfect caramel sauce

To make the perfect caramel sauce, use brown sugar and heavy cream. Heat them together over medium heat in a small saucepan. Stir constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture thickens. This process takes about 3 to 5 minutes. After removing it from heat, add pure vanilla extract and flaky sea salt for that delicious salted caramel taste.

Tips for rolling out the dough

When rolling out the dough, keep it chilled. This helps the butter stay firm, leading to a flaky crust. Use a lightly floured surface and a rolling pin. Roll the dough evenly to about 1/8 inch thick. If the dough sticks, sprinkle a little more flour. Always work quickly to prevent the dough from warming up too much.

Variations

Gluten-free tart crust options

You can make a gluten-free tart crust easily. Use almond flour or a gluten-free blend instead of all-purpose flour. Mix it with cold butter and sugar like in the regular recipe. Add an egg yolk and ice water to bind it. Chill the dough before rolling it out. This way, you will have a tasty gluten-free tart.

Adding different spices to the filling

Spices can change the flavor of your tart. Try adding nutmeg or ginger to the apple filling. You can mix these spices with the cinnamon for a warm, cozy taste. Just a pinch can make a big difference. Experiment until you find a mix you love.

Alternative toppings and serve suggestions

There are many ways to top your tart. You might add chopped nuts for crunch or a scoop of ice cream for creaminess. Fresh whipped cream also tastes great. For a twist, drizzle chocolate sauce or a fruit glaze on top. Each option adds a new layer of flavor and fun.

Storage Info

How to store leftover tart

To keep your salted caramel apple tart fresh, place it in an airtight container. You can also cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. This helps maintain the tart’s texture and flavor.

Freezing options for the tart

You can freeze your tart for longer storage. First, let it cool completely. Then, slice it into pieces. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container. Your tart can last in the freezer for up to three months.

Reheating instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, thaw it in the fridge overnight. For best results, reheat the tart in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tart on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes. This warms the tart and makes the crust crisp again. You can also use the microwave, but the oven method keeps the crust nice.

FAQs

Can I make the tart ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the tart ahead of time. Prepare the crust and apple filling. Store them separately in the fridge. You can bake the tart a day later. This keeps the crust fresh and crisp.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in the caramel sauce?

If you need a substitute for heavy cream, use coconut cream. It adds a unique flavor. You can also try milk or half-and-half, but the sauce may not be as rich. Adjust the cooking time as needed for thinner liquids.

How do I know when the apples are perfectly cooked?

Check the apples after baking for 20 to 25 minutes. They should be tender and slightly caramelized. A fork should slide in easily. If they still feel firm, bake a little longer. You want them soft but not mushy for the best texture.

This blog post covered how to make a tasty apple tart. You learned about the ingredients, like the crust, filling, and caramel sauce. I shared step-by-step instructions that keep baking simple. You also found tips for the best apples and making perfect caramel. Variations let you explore gluten-free options and new flavors. Lastly, I provided storage tips and answered common questions to help you succeed.

Now, you can create your own perfect apple tart and share it with others! Enjoy baking and taste the joy of your creatio