Ingredients:

• 300 g (11 oz) puff pastry (thawed if using frozen)
• 2 apples (peeled, cored, and sliced thinly)
• 80 g (2.8 oz) sugar
• 8 g (0.3 oz) cinnamon (ground)
• 20 g (0.7 oz) almonds (sliced or chopped)
• 1 egg (beaten, for egg wash)
• 2 lemons (zested and juiced)
• 100 g (3.5 oz) sugar (for lemon syrup)

Steps to Make Flaky Apple Puff Pastry Tarts:

1. Prepare the Apples
   Peel, core, and slice the apples thinly. In a medium bowl, toss the apple slices with the lemon juice, sugar (80 g), and cinnamon. Set aside for 5 minutes to allow the apples to absorb the flavors.
2. Roll Out the Puff Pastry
   Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to about 0.5 cm (1/4 inch) thick. Cut the pastry into rectangles or squares, depending on your preference. You should get about 6-8 pieces, depending on the size you choose.
3. Arrange the Apples
   Place the puff pastry pieces onto a lined baking sheet. Layer the cinnamon-sugar-coated apple slices neatly in the center of each pastry piece, leaving a small border around the edges. Don’t overcrowd the pastry with too many apples, as it may affect the puffing of the dough.
4. Add Almonds
   Sprinkle the sliced or chopped almonds over the top of the apples. The almonds add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor to the tarts.
5. Egg Wash
   Using a pastry brush, apply a thin layer of beaten egg along the edges of each pastry. This will give the tarts a beautiful golden color when baked.
6. Bake the Tarts
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the tarts in the oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the puff pastry is golden brown and crisp, and the apples are tender.
7. Prepare the Lemon Syrup
   While the tarts are baking, make the lemon syrup. In a small saucepan, combine the juice and zest of two lemons with 100 g (3.5 oz) of sugar. Heat over medium fire for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is fully dissolved, and the mixture forms a light syrup.
8. Brush the Tarts with Lemon Syrup
   Once the tarts are out of the oven, immediately brush them with the warm lemon syrup. This adds a tangy sweetness that complements the apples and balances the richness of the pastry.
9. Cool and Serve
   Let the tarts cool for a few minutes before serving. They are best enjoyed warm, but they are just as delicious at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving, assuming 6 servings):

• Calories: 290 kcal
• Fat: 16 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 25 mg
• Sodium: 160 mg

Note: Nutrition facts may vary depending on portion sizes and specific brands used.

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of fruit for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily swap apples with pears, peaches, or even berries for a variation of this puff pastry tart. Adjust the sugar and lemon syrup based on the sweetness of the fruit you use.

2. Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make this recipe vegan, you can use a vegan puff pastry (many store-bought puff pastries are already vegan), replace the egg wash with a plant-based milk or melted coconut oil, and ensure your sugar is vegan-friendly.

3. How do I prevent the puff pastry from becoming soggy?
To prevent sogginess, avoid overfilling the puff pastry with apples, and make sure to bake the tarts long enough for the pastry to become golden and crisp. You can also lightly prick the center of the pastry with a fork before adding the apples to help the steam escape.

Tips for Making Perfect Apple Puff Pastry Tarts:

1. Choosing the Apples
   Opt for firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Pink Lady. These varieties hold up well during baking and won’t turn mushy.
2. Use Cold Puff Pastry
   Puff pastry works best when it’s cold. If the dough becomes too soft or sticky while handling, pop it back in the fridge for a few minutes before rolling it out. This ensures a good rise and flaky layers.
3. Adjusting the Sweetness
   Depending on how sweet your apples are, you may want to adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe. If you prefer a less sweet tart, reduce the sugar slightly in both the apple mixture and the lemon syrup.
4. Get Creative with Toppings
   While almonds add a lovely crunch, you can also experiment with other toppings like chopped walnuts, pecans, or even a sprinkle of oats for a different texture.

Storage Tips:

Refrigerating:
If you have leftovers, store the cooled puff pastry tarts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispness.

Freezing:
These apple puff pastry tarts can also be frozen for later enjoyment. Freeze them on a tray first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container once fully frozen. To reheat, bake from frozen in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for 10-15 minutes.

Make-Ahead:
You can prepare the tarts in advance by assembling them (without baking) and storing them in the fridge for a few hours until ready to bake. Brush with egg wash and bake fresh for best results.

Conclusion:

These Flaky Apple Puff Pastry Tarts with Almond and Cinnamon are a perfect dessert for any occasion. Simple yet elegant, they combine the sweetness of apples, the warm spice of cinnamon, and the crunch of almonds, all wrapped in a buttery puff pastry. The tangy lemon syrup elevates the flavors, adding a zesty note that balances the sweetness perfectly. Whether you’re making these for a holiday gathering, a family treat, or a special brunch, these tarts are sure to impress. With easy storage options and versatility in fillings, this recipe is a go-to for any puff pastry lover.