This Apple Tart combines a buttery, sweet dough with a rich homemade applesauce and a topping of beautifully caramelized apple slices. Perfect for any occasion, this dessert is a delightful mix of textures and flavors with just the right amount of sweetness and a touch of cinnamon warmth. It’s a classic dessert that pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Ingredients
Sweet Dough:
- 270 g (2 cups + 2 tbsp) all-purpose flour
- 130 g (1 cup) icing sugar
- 100 g (½ cup) butter, softened
- 1 egg
- A pinch of salt
Applesauce:
- 6 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 40 g (3 tbsp) brown sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 50 ml (3 tbsp + 1 tsp) water
- ½ tsp cinnamon powder
Assembly:
- 4 apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- Brown sugar (for sprinkling)
- Butter (for dotting)
Directions
Sweet Dough:
- In a large bowl, combine flour, icing sugar, and a pinch of salt.
- Add the butter and rub it into the flour mixture until it resembles fine crumbs.
- Add the egg and mix until the dough comes together. Wrap in cling film and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
Applesauce:
- In a medium saucepan, combine diced apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, water, and cinnamon.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the apples soften and the mixture thickens (about 15–20 minutes).
- Mash the apples to create a smooth applesauce. Let it cool completely.
Assembly:
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a tart pan with butter.
- Roll out the chilled dough on a lightly floured surface and line the tart pan with it. Trim off any excess dough. Prick the base with a fork.
- Spread the cooled applesauce evenly over the tart base.
- Arrange the thinly sliced apples in an overlapping pattern on top of the applesauce.
- Sprinkle with brown sugar and dot with small pieces of butter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40–50 minutes, or until the apples are caramelized and the tart crust is golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Pair with a dollop of whipped cream or crème fraîche.
- Dust with icing sugar for a decorative finish.
- Drizzle with caramel sauce for added sweetness.
- Enjoy with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
Cooking Tips
- For the sweetest flavor, use a mix of tart and sweet apples for the applesauce and topping.
- Ensure the dough is well chilled before rolling to make it easier to handle.
- To prevent the dough from shrinking, press it firmly into the tart pan and let it chill for a few minutes before baking.
- If the edges of the tart brown too quickly, cover them with foil halfway through baking.
- Adjust the cinnamon in the applesauce to your taste preference.
Nutritional Benefits
- Apples are a great source of fiber and vitamin C.
- Homemade applesauce is free of preservatives and can be adjusted for sweetness.
- This tart is made with simple, wholesome ingredients.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian
- Can be made dairy-free by substituting butter with plant-based margarine.
- Adjust sugar quantities for a less sweet version.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~280
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Fat: 10 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Sugars: 25 g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm in the oven at 150°C (300°F) for 10–15 minutes.
- The tart can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The homemade applesauce adds a rich, natural flavor to the tart.
- The sweet dough is buttery and tender, complementing the apples perfectly.
- It’s versatile—great for dessert, tea time, or a special occasion.
- It’s a visually stunning dish that’s easy to make yet impressive.
Conclusion
This Apple Tart with Sweet Dough and Homemade Applesauce is a true crowd-pleaser that combines the comforting flavors of apples and cinnamon with a buttery crust. Its rich texture and delightful sweetness make it a must-try dessert for any occasion. Simple yet elegant, this tart is bound to become a family favorite. Bake one today and enjoy a classic treat with a modern twist!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, the sweet dough can be made up to 3 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator or frozen for up to 2 months. - What type of apples should I use?
Use a mix of tart apples like Granny Smith and sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp for balanced flavor. - Can I use store-bought applesauce?
Yes, but homemade applesauce adds a richer, fresher flavor. - Can I skip the cinnamon?
Yes, cinnamon is optional and can be omitted or replaced with nutmeg or allspice. - Can I use a food processor to make the dough?
Absolutely! Pulse the flour, sugar, salt, and butter until crumbly, then add the egg to form the dough. - How can I prevent a soggy bottom?
Prick the base with a fork and bake the crust for 10 minutes before adding the applesauce. - Can I add other fruits to the tart?
Yes, pears, peaches, or berries can be added for variation. - What can I use instead of brown sugar?
White sugar, coconut sugar, or honey can be used as substitutes. - How do I make the tart gluten-free?
Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. - Can I serve this tart cold?
Yes, the tart can be served warm, at room temperature, or chilled, depending on your preference.