A beautifully baked dessert can light up any occasion, transforming an ordinary day into something special. One of those treats that always seems to impress is a Pineapple and Apple Puff Pastry Tart with Cinnamon and Pomegranate. This recipe is an exquisite combination of sweet fruits, aromatic cinnamon, and the delightful flakiness of puff pastry, topped off with the vibrant burst of pomegranate seeds.
This tart is a perfect balance of flavors— the tangy sweetness of canned pineapple paired with the crisp and slightly tart taste of fresh apples. The hint of cinnamon adds warmth, while the pomegranate seeds provide a pop of color and a refreshing burst of flavor. It’s the kind of dessert that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it suitable for any occasion, whether it’s an intimate family dinner or a holiday gathering.
Beyond the vibrant taste and texture, this tart is versatile in many ways. You can easily swap in different fruits depending on the season or your preferences, and the puff pastry gives it a professional, bakery-quality appearance with minimal effort. With its combination of sweet and tart flavors, flaky pastry, and vibrant garnish, this tart is destined to become a beloved dessert in your repertoire.
Let’s dive into the details of the ingredients and step-by-step instructions to help you create this elegant yet simple dessert at home.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Puff Pastry Tart:
- 500 g of puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
- 500 grams of canned pineapple (drained and chopped)
- 1 apple (peeled, cored, and sliced thinly)
- 3 tablespoons of sugar (for the filling)
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon (for that warm, comforting flavor)
- 1 egg (for egg wash to give the pastry a golden finish)
For Garnishing:
- Pomegranate berries (for a colorful and refreshing burst)
- Black loose leaf tea (optional, for serving to complement the tart)
For Flavoring:
- 1 tablespoon of sugar (for caramelizing the apples slightly)
- 1 teaspoon of grated ginger (optional, for an extra kick of warmth)
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour (including cooling time)
- Servings: 6-8 servings
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). This will allow your puff pastry to bake perfectly, becoming golden and crisp.
2. Prepare the Fruit Filling
- Canned Pineapple: Open the can of pineapple, drain it well, and chop the pineapple into small, bite-sized chunks. If you prefer a smoother filling, you can blend the pineapple slightly, but chunky pieces will add more texture to the tart.
- Apple: Peel and core the apple. Slice it thinly, ensuring the slices are uniform so that they cook evenly when baking.
3. Season the Fruit
In a small bowl, combine the pineapple chunks, thin apple slices, sugar, and cinnamon. Stir gently to coat the fruits evenly. The sugar will help caramelize the fruit while baking, while the cinnamon adds a cozy, aromatic warmth.
4. Prepare the Puff Pastry
Roll out the puff pastry onto a piece of parchment paper or a lightly floured surface. If you’re using store-bought puff pastry, it should be rolled to a thickness of about 1/4 inch (0.6 cm). The pastry should be big enough to accommodate the fruit filling, so ensure the edges are slightly raised to form a border.
5. Assemble the Tart
Place the rolled puff pastry onto a baking sheet. Leave a small border around the edges to prevent the filling from spilling out during baking. Spread the cinnamon and sugar-seasoned fruit mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving some space around the edges.
6. Egg Wash the Pastry
In a small bowl, whisk the egg. Using a pastry brush, lightly brush the edges of the puff pastry with the egg wash. This will help the pastry develop a golden, shiny finish as it bakes.
7. Bake the Tart
Place the tart into the preheated oven and bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown, and the fruit filling is bubbling and caramelized. You may want to check after 20 minutes and if necessary, cover the edges of the pastry with foil to prevent over-browning.
8. Garnish with Pomegranate
Once the tart is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. While it’s still warm, sprinkle pomegranate seeds generously over the top for a burst of color and flavor. The pomegranate not only adds a lovely crunch but also provides a juicy, tangy contrast to the sweetness of the pineapple and apple.
9. Optional: Serve with Tea
For a cozy touch, brew a pot of black loose leaf tea to serve alongside the tart. The slightly astringent nature of black tea pairs beautifully with the rich sweetness of the dessert.
Why This Recipe Is Timeless
The Pineapple and Apple Puff Pastry Tart with Cinnamon and Pomegranate is a timeless dessert for many reasons. First, it brings together fruits that are widely loved across the world—apples and pineapples—two ingredients that have been used in baking for centuries. Their complementary sweet and tart flavors make them a perfect duo in any dessert, and they hold up beautifully when paired with the delicate flakiness of puff pastry.
The addition of cinnamon and ginger brings depth to the dish, offering a comforting warmth that balances the tropical sweetness of the pineapple. The pomegranate adds an unexpected but delightful twist, offering a burst of color and a pop of freshness that elevates the dish to a whole new level.
What makes this tart especially timeless is its versatility. While the recipe calls for specific fruits, you can easily substitute the apple and pineapple for any seasonal fruit you desire. Pears, peaches, or berries would all work wonderfully. The puff pastry can also be customized to your liking—whether you choose to make it from scratch or use store-bought pastry, this tart remains a crowd-pleaser.
This dessert is perfect for all kinds of occasions—whether it’s a simple family dinner, a holiday gathering, or an elegant dinner party. It’s easy enough for beginners but looks and tastes like a professional creation. Additionally, the balance of textures—from the crisp puff pastry to the tender fruit filling—makes it a satisfying treat that never goes out of style.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 230 kcal
- Protein: 2 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fat: 9 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Sugar: 18 g
- Sodium: 120 mg
FAQs
Can I make this tart ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tart ahead of time and store it in the fridge before baking. Simply assemble the tart, cover it with plastic wrap or foil, and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to come to room temperature and then bake as directed.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple will work just as well as canned pineapple in this recipe. Just be sure to cut the pineapple into small, bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Can I make this dessert gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free puff pastry for the regular puff pastry in this recipe. Many stores offer gluten-free versions that will work just as well.
Tips for Making the Perfect Tart
- Chill the Puff Pastry: If you’re using store-bought puff pastry, make sure it’s chilled before using. Cold pastry helps it puff up better during baking.
- Watch the Pastry Edges: Puff pastry can burn quickly around the edges. If the edges are browning too fast, cover them with aluminum foil and continue baking.
- Use a Variety of Fruits: Experiment with different fruits for seasonal variations. Pears, strawberries, or stone fruits would all be excellent choices.
- For Extra Crunch: You can sprinkle some chopped almonds or walnuts on top before baking for an added texture.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: You can freeze the tart (unbaked) for up to 2 months. Just assemble it, freeze it, and bake it directly from the freezer when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Conclusion
The Pineapple and Apple Puff Pastry Tart with Cinnamon and Pomegranate is a dessert that’s both simple and elegant, perfect for any occasion. Its combination of sweet fruits, flaky pastry, and warm spices make it a universally loved treat. Whether you’re baking it for a special event or enjoying it on a quiet evening at home, this tart will always deliver the comfort, flavor, and beauty that a great dessert should. The versatility of this dish makes it a perfect candidate for experimentation with different fruits and flavors, ensuring it will remain a go-to recipe for years to come. So go ahead, indulge in this delightful dessert—your taste buds will thank you!